Maximising lamb growth
Maximising lamb growth Having our lambs grow quickly is an important pointer for lifting profitability and creating options for our farming systems. Important components to growth are feed quality, feed quantity and minimising the effects of internal parasitism as lambs progressively move from milk to a pasture/crop diet. For the last two seasons, we have […]
Research breakthrough in dairy heifer reproduction
Research breakthrough in dairy heifer reproduction Peter Aitken and the team at Totally Vets Awapuni have been working with Zoetis to test a new heifer synchrony program on Manawatu dairy farms, with a study that showed real-world improvements in heifer reproductive performance. Peter presented this information to New Zealand dairy veterinarians at a national conference […]
The ongoing challenge of worm resistance
The ongoing challenge of worm resistance This autumn as in 2023, we have seen the increasing effects of resistance of internal sheep parasites to drench. This combined with ideal weather conditions for the survival of the larval stages of these parasites on pasture, are leading to lambs being clinically affected despite their treatment. While we […]
Lepto 4-Way
Lepto 4-Way With the 2025 dairy season kicking off we are wanting to ensure that all the regular animal health vaccinations run smoothly. Earlier this year Lepto 4-Way was introduced which provided protection for you, your staff and ourselves against L Pacifica. Traditionally we have vaccinated for L Pomona and L Hardjobovis but we know […]
Flexolt another tool for controlling lice in sheep
New Product: Flexolt another tool for controlling lice in sheep This season MSD Animal Health released onto the New Zealand market a new lice control product for sheep which trades under the name Flexolt. Flexolt is a novel product, in that its contains a new active and in addition it is a new approach to […]
Nitrate poisoning
Nitrate poisoning Nitrate poisoning, is a relatively common problem in grazing livestock in our temperate climate, and often follows when livestock graze young, rapidly growing pastures and crops that haven’t converted all their nitrates into protein. The results of nitrate poisoning can be very dramatic, with animals often giving no warning and collapsing suddenly. Accumulation […]
Transition Calcium Bolus
Transition Calcium Bolus A simple, cost-effective tool to help ease your cows through the ‘freshening’ period. When a cow calves her body’s need for calcium increases rapidly and dramatically (by approximately 400%). She will also be experiencing hormonal imbalances and possibly a general feeling of malaise/fatigue. These changes can supress appetite making it difficult for […]
Parasite of the month – Teladorsagia
Parasite of the month – Teladorsagia Teladorsagia circumcincta, commonly known as the brown stomach worm can be a big threat for sheep and goats. It was previously known as Ostertagia circumcincta but was recently found to have differences to this worm found in cattle. As its common name suggests, this parasite is found in the abomasum. […]
Leptospirosis on your lifestyle block
Leptospirosis on your lifestyle block Leptospirosis or ‘lepto’ is a serious disease caused by several strains of a spiral-shaped bacteria. People and animals can be infected through any mucous membranes (mouth, eyes, nose) or damaged skin. The bacteria are released in the urine of infected animals and can survive in fresh water (puddles and rivers) […]
Food for thought for the winter months
Food for thought for the winter months As we reach some of the shortest days of the year, it is time to think about winter management on your property. At this time of year, the weather can be unpredictable and unforgiving, especially for our younger stock. Now is a good time to plan – here […]