Keeping dairy calves healthy is easier when their exposure to harmful bacteria is limited. Even when they’re exposed and don’t become sick, it takes valuable energy to fight off disease, according to Christie Underwood, PhD, Purina calf and heifer specialist.
Source: Purina Mills.
To look beyond the surface and truly analyze the cleanliness of your facility, there are four important areas to consider:
- Cleaning and sanitizing steps.
- Equipment that needs attention.
- Calf morbidity and mortality rates.
- Third-party audits.
INSIGHTS: Basic nutrition and health information for multiple species is available from Purina Mills. There’s great reminder information for the experienced client and a treasure of primer-type material for those new to raising livestock.