David Renaud, DVM, PhD, considers navel infections to be the most under-diagnosed disease in dairy calves, particularly in the first two weeks of life. Sharing research and on-farm experiences, Renaud and Matthias Wieland, DVM, say the symptoms of diarrhea and pneumonia are often readily seen but umbilical infections are rarely noticed.
Renaud encourages veterinarians and producers to check the umbilicus as part of their total calf care process and to develop a protocol to incorporate examination of umbilical structures at different times.
Source: Bovine Veterinarian, January 9, 2023. Link. Wieland believes the use of a navel dip after a calf’s birth can aid in drying the umbilical cord and also kill bacteria that could be present.
I speculate that shortcomings in maternity pen hygiene and calf housing systems overpower a possible positive effect of navel dips” – Matthias Wieland, DVM
INSIGHTS: Consider this article for direct emails to educate producers. Also consider conducting umbilical exam and training during farm calls. Five minutes of show and tell could easily save a calf on every dairy. As an alternative, host a zoom meeting, explain umbilical care and demonstrate umbilical cord care live. And yes, 😉 you might need a teen to help with the camera.