Ann Hoskins might have used the term mindful in explaining the “look, listen, smell and feel” strategy to help identify those calves with subtle signs of sickness. The key is to closely observe calves in the moment without making assumptions or overlooking small signs.
Source: Progressive Dairyman, March 1, 2018.
It’s easy to miss these simple signs when you rush through a busy shift of calf chores, says Hoskins:
- Do you smell ammonia or fresh scours?
- Do the calves get up when they see you coming?
- Are they “bright-eyed and bushy-tailed”?
- How are the hair coats?
- Are they anxious to eat?
- Are they resting comfortably?
- Do you hear rough breathing?
INSIGHTS: Experienced dairy teams know these things. But, are the ones doing the daily chores experienced or trained in observation? Share this article during farm visits to help improve calf outcomes. Distributors may want to add a question about fly control as the weather warms.