Many producers are facing rapidly disappearing forage resources. Additionally, available forage may have decreased nutritional value. Both factors are considerations in early weaning decisions shares Terry Engelken, DVM, MS, who urges producers to proactively plan to ease the transition for younger, lighter weight calves.
Early weaning can be a profitable way to stretch pasture and boost cow performance, but it does require adequate planning with your veterinarian and nutritionist to minimize weaning stress and optimize calf performance.” – Terry Engelken, DVM, MS
Source: BEEF, August 18, 2023. Link.
INSIGHTS: Too often producers unable to get in the field to harvest crops decide to wean calves which usurps important planning for weaning activities. Consider helping producers get a plan in place before a snap decision is made and guide them with a preconditioning mindset.
No perfect preconditioning program, no perfect time to vaccinate, no perfect time to market exists, but producers, with the help of good professional health and management advice, find odds can be stacked in a favorable outcome for the calf.” <Link>