Prepping calves for next fall’s market starts now with a herd vaccination program for cows, bulls and calves. Annual operational objectives should include 100 percent healthy cattle. Herd vaccination programs are proactive and implementing vaccines recommended by local veterinarian help protect against known viral and bacterial issues in the area. The upside of processing cattle when they need vaccination outweighs the potential losses from skipping them to save time or money.
Source: Drovers, April 9, 2018. (Link)
The complexity of the herd’s response to a vaccine or exposure to a real pathogen is mind-bending, shares Kris Ringwall who wishes for a simple explanation that would explain the vaccine immune response. Pre-calving, pre-breeding, post-calving, pre-weaning and weaning are all periods that should involve the implementation of a well-thought-out vaccination schedule. The herd health protocols, in conjunction with appropriate managerial practices that maximize herd vigor and health, are key, Ringwall says.
INSIGHTS: Kris Ringwall tackled vaccination protocols from a broad perspective. Animal health pros working with beef producers may wish to clarify a few points in this article and reinforce the positive vaccination messages.