Potential animal health issues, tasks to consider and reminders for this month include…
DAIRY
Drying off – It is still important to keep a good eye on cow body condition to ensure it doesn’t drop too low. Also beware of falling productions levels and potential increased risk of inhibitory substance grades.
Trace elements – For those that haven’t started yet, test herd mineral status – this needs doing before winter sets in.
Vaccinations – Salmonella vaccine may be advised during the dry period and plan for calf scour vaccinations – check your colostrum management. Don’t forget eptospirosis vaccinations need doing prior to drying off.
Teatsealing – We have been busy teat sealing and if you are still to organise this ring us to make booking. Standard recommendation is six weeks before planned start of calving. Heifers need to be trained to your shed so make sure they have enough time to get accustomed to your facilities before teat sealing. Consider the benefits of a dry period drench.
Transition planning – Make sure you have these in place. Check out the special Dairy newsletter.
SHEEP and BEEF
Ewe Scanning – This will begin this month. Ring the clinic to book this in. The rams need to be out 45 days.
Keep an eye on late season fly strike and liver fluke.
With cull cows that are going to the works, now is an ideal time to check mineral status.
DEER
Continue to monitor general health over this quiet time of year.
Hind pregnancy scanning is recommended to get the most out of your fawning.
EQUINE
Teeth and vaccinations – Now is a great time to book in and have teeth done while they are out of work over winter. Horses aged 20 and above need some extra dental attention during winter season, as pain in the mouth may cause a decrease of hay intake which leads to sudden weight loss. Get your horse vaccinated at the same time, this saves another callout during the year.
Feed – Ensure they have a good quality hay that is mould and dust free. If you have difficulty maintaining your horse’s weight during winter you may need to increase the fat component in their diet. Please phone the clinic to discuss a suitable feed plan with one of our equine vets.
