Preconditioning Programs In Canada

Abstract

Preconditioning has been a controversial issue since it was conceived about 25 years ago. While most agree that adequate preparation of calves to withstand the stresses of marketing is desirable, many veterinarians, cow-calf producers and feedlot operators remain sceptical that preconditioning adequately addresses this need. Both industry participants and observers have been frustrated by the lack of documented evidence that the concept is or is not beneficial. Recently, preconditioning has been criticized by several authors, mainly in the public press in the United States.