Calf Respiratory Disease and Pen Microenvironments in Naturally Ventilated Calf Barns in Winter

Authors

  • A. Lago Department of Medical Science, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI
  • T. B. Bennett Department of Medical Science, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI
  • S. M. McGuirk Department of Medical Science, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI
  • N. B. Cook Department of Medical Science, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI
  • K. V. Nordlund Department of Medical Science, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.21423/aabppro20054828

Keywords:

ventilated barns, construction material, stocking density, pen enclosure, bedding, calf pneumonia, bacteria counts

Abstract

Dairy operators have constructed naturally ventilated barns with individual pens to house calves from birth to weaning. These barns vary in terms of construction materials, stocking density, pen enclosures, bedding, and operation of sidewall openings and ridges. Endemic calf pneumonia is common in these barns, particularly through the winter months. We investigated the use of airborne bacteria counts to characterize naturally ventilated calf barns and pens, and examined the relationship between airborne bacterial counts, various pen factors, and calf respiratory health.

Cover image of the 38th Conference Proceedings: A cow nuzzles her newborn calf in a stall with straw bedding. Both are content. Yellow background.

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Published

2005-09-24

Issue

2005

Section

Research Summaries 1

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