Doctalk Ep 582 - Managing Bred Heifers in the Feed Yard with Dan Thomson скачать в хорошем качестве

Doctalk Ep 582 - Managing Bred Heifers in the Feed Yard with Dan Thomson

Today's episode delves into the management of bred heifers in feed yards. Dr. Dan Thompson, a seasoned feed yard veterinarian, discusses the challenges and strategies involved in handling heifers that arrive at the feed yard already bred. He outlines the prevalence of bred heifers, revealing that approximately 20% of heifers entering feed yards are bred, with 2% classified as long bred. Dr. Thompson emphasizes the importance of identifying the pregnancy status of these heifers upon arrival, utilizing techniques such as palpation, ultrasound, or blood tests. The discussion moves on to the distinction between short bred and long bred heifers, crucial for determining the appropriate abortion protocol. Short bred heifers can be aborted with a single shot of prostaglandin F two alpha, while long bred heifers require an additional injection of dexamethasone to induce abortion. Dr. Thompson explores various management options for dealing with bred heifers, including purchasing guaranteed open or spayed heifers, preg checking and aborting, or mass aborting lightweight heifers. He emphasizes the economic advantages of buying guaranteed open heifers and the importance of working closely with a veterinarian to ensure proper management protocols are followed. Throughout the episode, Dr. Thompson underscores the welfare implications and logistical challenges associated with managing bred heifers in feed yards, highlighting the need for careful planning and proactive measures to ensure the well-being of the animals under their care. #beefproduction #doctalk #ranching #heifers #cattlehealth