Video Feature: How have fitting and showing techniques changed over time?

Video Feature: How have fitting and showing techniques changed over time?

Purina Mills

How To Handle A Gentic Disorder

How To Handle A Gentic Disorder

Mick Kreidler

In mid-September 2008, the American Angus Association (AAA) announced that a genetic disorder had been identified in a specific bloodline of Angus cattle. The disease, Arthrogryposis Multiplex (AM), previously called Curly Calf Syndrome, is a lethal genetic defect that results in abnormal calves.

Calves that are afflicted with AM are stillborn with bent or twisted spines. The calves are small in size due to limited muscle development and their hind legs are often rigid and hyperextended.

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Protein Supplements for Cattle

Protein Supplements for Cattle

Johnny Rossi and Ronnie Silcox, Extension Animal Scientists – Beef Cattle

Feed is a major portion of the annual production costs of beef cow herds. Cattlemen can normally grow enough forage to meet most of the nutritional needs of the cow herds. However, additional protein and energy are often required to properly balance a ration for growing animals and lactating beef cows. High protein supplements cost more than grains or forages used in feeding the cow herd. Proper selection and efficient use of protein supplements can reduce production costs.

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Expected Progeny Differences (EPDs) in Beef Cattle

Expected Progeny Differences (EPDs) in Beef Cattle

Gary R. Hansen and David G. Riley

University of Florida

Expected Progeny Differences (EPDs) were developed to provide cattle producers with an effective tool to evaluate prospective breeding stock. As the name implies, EPDs predict the performance of future offspring from an individual animal. More specifically, EPDs predict the genetic transmitting ability of an individual as a parent.

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Amendments Made to Enhance Disease Traceability

Amendments Made to Enhance Disease Traceability

Thebeefsite.com

The USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) is proposing to amend its domestic livestock regulations in order to enhance the traceability of animals in the United States.

These proposed changes would create greater standardization and uniformity of official numbering systems and eartags used in both animal disease programs and the National Animal Identification System (NAIS).

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USDA issues final COOL rule

USDA issues final COOL rule

Beef Today

USDA has issued details of the mandatory country of origin labeling (COOL) program required by the 2002 and 2008 farm bills. The full text of the final rule will be published in the Jan. 15, 2009 Federal Register. The rule becomes effective on March 16, 2009, 60 days after the date of publication.

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Cold Weather Calf Care & Colostrum Management

Cold Weather Calf Care & Colostrum Management

cattlenetwork.com

As the cold temperatures have blasted upon us, it is important to re-evaluate calf care protocols. Calves will have higher nutrient requirements in the winter, especially if housed in hutches or other outdoor housing. Colostrum management is critical at any time of year. Using these hints will help to ensure the health and longevity of the replacement heifer within the herd. The tips listed below are from Dr. Sam Leadley, calf/heifer management specialist for Attica Veterinary Associates, Attica, NY.

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