Dairy Worker Training in Newborn Calf Management

Authors

  • Franklyn B. Garry Integrated Livestock Management, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523
  • Ivette N. Román-Muñiz Integrated Livestock Management, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523
  • Jason E. Lombard USDA:APHIS:VS Centers for Epidemiology and Animal Health, Fort Collins, CO 80526
  • David C. Van Metre Integrated Livestock Management, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.21423/aabppro20074506

Keywords:

calf death rates, Stillbirths, dairy workforce, education, training, calf management protocol, calf health

Abstract

Dairy calf death rates from birth to weaning approximate 8 to 10% in the US. Stillbirths on dairies, measured as calves dead at delivery or within the first 24 to 48 hours after delivery, are less closely monitored, but are estimated between 6 and 12%. Numerous factors influence calf health and survival, but the key contributors to calf morbidity and mortality can be managed to greatly reduce these losses. Except on small dairies, most calving events and postnatal calf care are overseen by paid employees. As the available dairy workforce has changed over time, it is common that the people making critical decisions about newborn calves do not have extensive prior experience in calf management. Workers with appropriate education and training, provided with good calf management protocols, can dramatically improve calf health and survival.

Cover image of the 40th Conference Proceedings: A single longhorn standing next to a barbed-wire fence on a cloudy day. Yellow background.

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Published

2007-09-20

Issue

2007

Section

General Sessions

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