Livestock

Johne’s disease is a hidden yet widespread threat to dairy herds, silently reducing productivity and profitability, but proactive testing, culling, and biosecurity measures can help farmers take control. Words Kara Dawson.

There have been some catastrophic outbreaks of Salmonella this year. Salmonella can strike without warning and spread quickly at any time, so what lessons can we learn from these recent outbreaks? Words Sheryl Haitana.

Many dairy calves who have just been weaned will be heading off to grazing blocks soon. How can we support these calves to thrive during their first summer? Words DairyNZ.

Taking the guesswork out of when to drench calves, via better testing and monitoring of worms, is one way farmers can help reduce the issue of drench resistance. Words Sheryl Haitana, Photos Emma McCarthy.

Headlines about triple drench resistance in the sheep industry are sending waves through the rest of the primary sector. So what about our dairy industry? Words Ginny Dodunski.

Implementing a good feed strategy for calves is half the equation when it comes to worm control. Owl Farm has found using chicory to increase protein for their calves has ultimately had the added benefit of reduced exposure to worms. Words Sheryl Haitana.

A recent Kellogg Rural Leadership Programme report by Tessa Appleby builds a clear picture of farmer and industry understanding of Bovine tuberculosis and what, if any, complacency might exist surrounding the disease. Tessa’s mission to eradicate the disease is not only forged by her work with OSPRI, but by personal experience of TB in the Hawke’s Bay region. The 2021 TB outbreak was eventually brought under control, but could this lead to a potentially dangerous complacency amongst farmers and industry? Words Tessa Appleby.

The substantial expansion of the dairy industry and the reality of stubborn reproductive performance has resulted in farmers not having as much selection pressure within arm’s reach, but there is now a huge opportunity for farmers to further focus on improving the efficiency of their herd and reduce emissions intensity. Words Sheryl Haitana.

Spotting lame cows is not one of our strong suits. If farmers can detect lameness earlier, it can benefit the cow’s recovery and can help prevent future lameness cases. Words Emma Cuttance.

Two dairy farmers have found a way around a fluctuating calf market by partnering with First Light. Words Sheryl Haitana.