Last week’s AHD Bulletin – Animal Health Digest Bulletin, September 14, 2023. Link. Most read post(s) from the September 14th AHD Bulletin – The manager squeeze: How a new workplace is testing team leaders. Link. Most-read 2023 posts by Patrick T. Malone. Link. Use caution when feeding drought-stressed corn. Link. Place keeper: 2023 Veterinary … [Read more...]
Archives for September 2023
Beef-on-dairy: A revolution in American beef production?
Industry experts predict dairy farmers will produce 2.92 million beef-on-dairy calves this year and 3.22 million in 2024. And those numbers may be conservative, writes Greg Henderson. . . . sexed semen helps reduce the number of dairy cows needed to produce dairy heifers, thus allowing more dairy cows available for breeding to beef sires.” Source: Dairy Herd Management, … [Read more...]
The 7 repro mistakes dairy producers can’t afford to make
Two dairy technical service consultants provide their rundown of the top seven reproduction sins that cost dairy producers time, money and potentially future calves. Merck’s Todd Bilby, PhD, and Boehringer Ingelheim’s Jennifer Roberts, DVM, share their collective perspectives. Source: Dairy Herd Management, September 19, 2023. Link. To help prevent slip-ups and avoid … [Read more...]
Reminder. Safety first when working with cattle
Working with cattle seven or more times our size is inherently dangerous. Plus there are moving equipment parts that add risk in modern operations. Libby Eiholzer, MPS, shares six key topics and offers safety advice for each. Most accidents are not because cattle are aggressive . . . A lot of times there are things we can do to prevent accidents just by knowing a cow's natural … [Read more...]
Manure Expo featured research-backed innovation
Livestock producers are constantly challenged to improve the way manure is handled to protect land and water resources and maximize its value to farms. More than 900 people attended the North American Manure Expo to learn and discuss modern methods of improving the use and value of livestock waste. What’s really exciting is how quickly manure applicators and farmers are … [Read more...]
First International Avian Influenza Summit takes place October 16, 17
The Center of Excellence for Poultry Science is hosting the new hybrid event. It is a global event made up of scientists, policymakers and stakeholders who are addressing the challenges posed by the highly pathogenic avian influenza epizootic. The conference is approved by the American College of Poultry Veterinarians for 14 credit hours for registered members. It’s also … [Read more...]
Chickens get worms. Deworming isn’t always easy.
Susan Brackney talked with poultry experts to understand why a one-size-fits-all solution doesn’t exist when it comes to deworming chickens. . . . the FDA considers all chickens to be food-producing animals, regardless of how the owner views it . . . which limits my options as a veterinarian. . . “ - Megan Lighty, DVM, PhD, DACPV Source: Hobby Farms, August 7, 2023. Link. To … [Read more...]
Poll: Persistent hoof problems
A recent poll asked, “Which hoof problem do you encounter most often in your horses?” Hoof cracks and thrush were the top answers shared by 342 participants. Polls like this give animal health pros a look at horse enthusiasts’ perceptions and challenges with keeping their animals healthy. Source: The Horse. Link. … [Read more...]
New resource available: West Nile virus in U.S. Horses
Commentary West Nile virus may seem like just another preventable disease these days, but 24 years ago the story was quite different. For many animal health pros, WNV and the severe neurologic disease it causes was the biggest health threat the horse industry had seen in the 20th century. Not only a risk to horses, WNV affects many species, including humans. Stacey Oke, … [Read more...]
Acorns are bad for dogs, cattle and horses
Acorns, whether brown or green, are not safe for dogs as they contain high amounts of harmful tannins. They can even cause serious health complications, explains Lauren Krouse. In addition to being a risk to dogs, acorns are also especially toxic to cattle and horses. Source: Great Pet Care, October 21, 2022. Link. … [Read more...]
Dental treats. Every crunch counts.
Fifty-five percent of treats dog owners buy are for dental care. Caroline Coile, PhD, says yes, then reminds us about xylitol and shares perspectives on the benefits of dental treats as a secondary oral health approach. Every crunch counts. Dogs can chew, chomp and lap their way to cleaner teeth. Use treats as a preventative following a professional cleaning.” - Caroline … [Read more...]
Study finds vegan cat food beneficial
Results from a study in Australia contradict the long-standing opinion that cats are obligate carnivores. Examining seven general indicators of illness, researchers found risk reductions with a vegan diet for all seven general illness indicators. Commenting on their research and other studies, the researchers found the evidence remarkably consistent, “Nutritionally sound … [Read more...]
Conditions missed by skipping urinalysis
There are conditions that can be missed if urinalysis is not performed, writes Candice P. Chu, DVM, PhD, DACVP. She says these three results can be missed without urinalysis: Proteinuria Glucosuria: Fanconi syndrome Bacteriuria: Subclinical bacteriuria Source: Clinician’s Brief, September 2023. Link. Relatively inexpensive . . . urinalysis should be considered as … [Read more...]
Top 5 severe adverse effects of antimicrobials
ICYMI. Although mild adverse effects are reported with many antimicrobials, alarming and severe adverse effects are possible even with commonly used drugs, share authors Mackenzie Gray, DVM, and Kate KuKanich, DVM, PhD, DACVIM. They list their top serious antimicrobial adverse effects and prevention strategies to help ensure patient safety. Antimicrobials referenced with … [Read more...]
ICYMI – The Bridge Club discussion about new vet schools (video)
Addressing the shortage of veterinarians remains a topic of discussion. The Bridge Club held a virtual conversation about it and new schools. Some animal health pros have pushed to provide veterinary educational opportunities, including modified models for streamlining and modernizing the way veterinary students receive learn and gain expertise. Guests included Mark Cushing, … [Read more...]
Purina calls on consumers to recycle pet food cans
Nestlé Purina PetCare is launching a campaign to get its consumers to recycle their aluminum and steel cans after use. The #PurinaRecyclesChallenge encourages pet owners to aim at the recycling bin when disposing of their used pet food cans instead of throwing them into the garbage. The challenge invites pet owners to film a “trick shot” of them banking a pet food can into … [Read more...]
IBPSA Fast Bites – September 26, 2023
Pet food market export growth, India's pet care sector growing with innovation and adaptability, ESG in small business, YouTube SEO, recycling efforts, small gestures employees appreciate and more . . . Source: IBPSA Fast Bites, September 26, 2023. Link. … [Read more...]
The new phone call etiquette: Text first and never leave a voicemail (video)
Heather Kelly shares when it is okay to leave voicemails, call multiple times in a row or take a call in public. She shares these four basic tips: Don’t use speakerphone in public Only answer when you want to talk Text before calling Don’t abuse video voicemail Source: Washington Post, September 25, 2023. Link. … [Read more...]
4 tips for effective email communication
In this era of hybrid and remote work, proper communications of all types, including email, matter. In fact, considerate email is an evident way for leaders to demonstrate intentions in their communications to employees. Members of the Ragan Advisory Board share sound email tips. Source: Ragan, September 26, 2023. Link. Here’s what stood out. Consider the time of your … [Read more...]
Reducing the stigma of substance use disorder in vet med
Should the veterinary community receive more training in substance use disorders? Phil Richmond, DVM, CAPP, CPHSA, CCFP, thinks it is important and reveals his own story, challenges the stigmatization of alcohol use and SUD, and the need for compassion along with resources that are readily available. We know that, at some point in their career, 10% to 15% of medical … [Read more...]
Emotional intelligence and teams
High-performing teams enforce a norm of speaking up when someone on the team acts in a way that harms team effectiveness. Source: LinkedIn Pulse, September 18, 2023. Link. A study of over 100 next-generation family business leaders finds how other executives in the business see a leader’s emotional and social intelligence predicts that person’s effectiveness as a … [Read more...]
7th Veterinary Innovation Summit seeks to collaborate and advance human, veterinary medicine
Registration is still open for the 7th annual Veterinary Innovation Summit. Sponsored by the North American Veterinary Community and the Veterinary Innovation Council, the event will focus on the future of animal healthcare and how breakthroughs in human medicine can be adapted to advance animal healthcare and vice versa. Source: NAVC, September 20, 2023. Link. We have … [Read more...]
Navigating reasonable accommodations for disabled employees
A recent court of appeals decision involving a disability discrimination and retaliation charge against Costco Wholesale Corp. is a reminder to HR professionals to be cautious when determining reasonable accommodations for disabled workers. At the end of the day, what's most important really isn't what the condition is, it’s what are the work restrictions, and can we … [Read more...]
Free calendar helps keep track of heritage, awareness months
The communications pros at Ragan developed a handy calendar that lists key heritage months and days. Source: Ragan, September 25, 2023. Link. The calendar isn’t a comprehensive list of every affinity event . . . It focuses specifically on heritage, gender and sexuality, and disabilities to cast a net that’s helpful for most communicators. Direct link to PDF. … [Read more...]
Animals are talking. Are we listening?
Few of us have heard animals sing, or speak, for that matter. That doesn’t mean they don’t do both. Recent research reveals communication abilities among animals that have been recognized or explored. This article examines what research has been conducted and what it means for future connections between animals and humans. Source: The New York Times, September 20, 2023. … [Read more...]
ER doctor: What AI startups are getting wrong about ChatGPT for telehealth
Commentary This article offers perspective as telehealth and virtual care become more prevalent in veterinary medicine and AI tools are being further developed. We noted the doctor’s considerable experiences with virtual medicine, the (missing) need for setting patient expectations, plus challenges when there is no doctor-patient relationship. All too often, I’ve cared for … [Read more...]
Be aware of road safety during harvest season
Fall harvest is in full swing. It’s good to remind employees and family members about road safety any time, but it’s especially important during this busy season. Drivers in farming areas should expect to encounter farm equipment of all sizes traveling on the roads. Along with tractors and combines, trucks and trailers will be entering and exiting fields, often at unmarked … [Read more...]
Worth a Glance – September 21, 2023
Last week’s AHD Bulletin – Animal Health Digest Bulletin, September 14, 2023. Link. Most read post(s) from the September 14th AHD Bulletin – Things that fit through a surgical mask. Link. Practical advice about heartworm preventative lapses. Link. Call to action: Educate the public about the cost of pet ownership. Link. Place keeper: 2023 Veterinary … [Read more...]
Consider drylotting cows this fall
As pastures continue to recover from drought, some producers who traditionally pasture their cattle are considering feeding cow-calf pairs in confinement. Drylotting can be a feasible way to allow pasture recovery while feeding grain, forage and crop stover pairs. Source: Angus Beef Bulletin Extra, August 23, 2023. Link. Here are a few things to keep in mind if intending to … [Read more...]
The mythical performance curve for net sow output
Culling in livestock production is replete with indecision, reluctance and emotions for many producers. They’ve often worked hard for months or years to optimize their animals’ health only to be faced with removing an animal from the herd to realize increased economic benefits. Statistics require perspective from all sides, as well as accurate data collection. Dennis Dipetre … [Read more...]