Pre-mating drenching and minerals
Pre-mating drenching and minerals The fact is adult cattle are still subject to damage from the worm larval stages before their immune systems have a chance to recognise and kick out the adult worms. These larval stages create damage to the mucosa of the gut lining that can cause the problems; it incites an increase […]
Taking the guesswork out of mastitis
Taking the guesswork out of mastitis As veterinarians and farmers, it is our responsibility to ensure that antibiotics are both prescribed and administered appropriately so that their efficacy against microorganisms is well-preserved in years to come. Bacterial resistance against antibiotics is a real and growing concern in both human and animal medicine. Over the […]
Johne’s disease (pronounced “Yo-knees”)
Johne’s disease (pronounced “Yo-knees”) Something that all farmers have no doubt heard mentioned by a vet at some stage or seen on their farms. Suggested to be prevalent on around 60% of farms in recent publications but I would suggest it could be up to around 90% of Dairy farms. It would be considered relatively […]
Chicken mites and lice
Chicken mites and lice Mites and lice are commonly a problem in the warmer months (summer and autumn). These insects breed very rapidly, so without the correct prevention and treatment, they can very quickly become a big problem. Mites and lice can cause restlessness and irritation, a loss in body condition and a drop in […]
Worming Horses
Worming Horses A very common question we get here in the clinic is how often do we need to be worming horses? The frequency of worming is very dependent on the age of the horse and the stocking rate of the property. It is important that you talk with your vet for a customised plan […]
Equine sarcoids
Equine sarcoids Sarcoids are a common skin tumour in horses and donkeys. They can present in many ways, occur singularly or multiple and on any part of the body. There is evidense that horses can be genetically predisposed to developing sarcoids, but sarcoids have also been linked to the Bovine Papilloma Virus. What does it […]
Copper
Copper Copper is an essential trace element that is needed for many biological functions including growth, pigmentation, fertility, healthy nerve fibres and the immune system. In New Zealand (NZ), copper deficiency is a common occurrence and a major problem unless managed effectively. There are two main causes of copper deficiency in cattle. Primary copper deficiency […]
Cattle lameness – emerging information
Cattle lameness – emerging information Over the last three years we’ve been encouraging the use of anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs) for common conditions faced by all farmers such as assisted calvings, downer cows, as part of mastitis treatments and when treating sick cows and calves. We will prescribe KetoMax for use on-farm and you will see our […]
Pre lamb treatment for ewes
Pre lamb treatment for ewes Given the high prices that have been realized for lambs over the last few seasons and the high scanning rates currently being achieved it is worth paying particular attention to pre-lamb treatments for ewes. Getting some of these simple practices correct can make a huge difference on lamb survival and […]
Lice
Lice Lice are host-specific external parasites. They spend their entire life cycle on the animal, meaning that they can only spread between animals via direct contact. Many large animals can suffer from lice, including cattle, sheep, goats, and horses. Lice are relatively common during winter months, as the animal’s coat is generally denser and provides […]