born2run
Well-known member
Hi there:
Been over 2 years since I've posted here, and Im sure most of you don't remember me. So...Im working as a calf manager/feeder for a 300 cow dairy. This guy was sending his calves out to custom raisers until early this summer, when they raised their costs too high for his liking.
Cows are calved out in less than sterile conditions. Some are freshening in a central pen that has over 20 head in it, cleaned once a week, the others are lucky enough to be put in a 12x12 pen with 1 or 2 other cows/heifers. These are bedded frequently but not thoroughly cleaned and NEVER disinfected.
Calves are moved outside immediately upon birth and put in huts, vaccinated with TSV2, Calfguard, and First Defense. Theyre all fed colostrum either from the cow or from Colostrumate. Huts are kept on concrete, cleaned in between each use and powerwashed. They're kept "high and dry", bedded frequently and are clean.
Now here's the kicker. Something is going through them that's killing them, FAST. They'll eat fine and appear fine 12 hours prior and be dead the next time I come. They arent scouring. It appears to be a fast moving respiratory bug, but Im not sure how to even combat it. This is where I need your advice. Ill call the vet today and see what he says, but I'd appreciate some additional input.
Thanks
Been over 2 years since I've posted here, and Im sure most of you don't remember me. So...Im working as a calf manager/feeder for a 300 cow dairy. This guy was sending his calves out to custom raisers until early this summer, when they raised their costs too high for his liking.
Cows are calved out in less than sterile conditions. Some are freshening in a central pen that has over 20 head in it, cleaned once a week, the others are lucky enough to be put in a 12x12 pen with 1 or 2 other cows/heifers. These are bedded frequently but not thoroughly cleaned and NEVER disinfected.
Calves are moved outside immediately upon birth and put in huts, vaccinated with TSV2, Calfguard, and First Defense. Theyre all fed colostrum either from the cow or from Colostrumate. Huts are kept on concrete, cleaned in between each use and powerwashed. They're kept "high and dry", bedded frequently and are clean.
Now here's the kicker. Something is going through them that's killing them, FAST. They'll eat fine and appear fine 12 hours prior and be dead the next time I come. They arent scouring. It appears to be a fast moving respiratory bug, but Im not sure how to even combat it. This is where I need your advice. Ill call the vet today and see what he says, but I'd appreciate some additional input.
Thanks