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May is a transition month as we move from the variable weather of Spring to the warm early Summer weather by the end of the month. For the health of our animals going into Summer there are some things to consider. PARASITES: Internal parasites produce more eggs as the spring progresses. Before turnout onto pasture, it is beneficial to control parasite load. I am seeing issues with the commercial wormers such as Ivomec, Eprinex, Cydectin, and Panacur/Safeguard with resistance development. Administering these just before turnout simply seeds the pasture with resistant worm eggs. Using a natural wormer such as Dr...

Scouring calves, lambs, & goat kids can be a challenge any time of year but are more critical during the winter months. Here is my review of some products that can be beneficial. Impro Opti-Start – A powdered product that is mixed in milk or electrolytes.  Contains antibodies and bioactive peptides from Impro whey and dried egg proteins.  High levels of active probiotics are combined with psyllium, which acts as a probiotic.  Also included are vitamins and electrolytes.  This is fed at 1-2 oz. per day for the first 2-4 weeks of age.  Approximate cost is $0.50 to $1.00 per calf...

  There is much written about trace minerals in human and animal nutrition.  It can be a confusing topic – I will try to simplify the issue.  Calcium, phosphorus, magnesium and potassium are considered macrominerals.  They are required in comparatively larger quantities.  Recommended levels of these are well established.  As the name implies, trace minerals need only be present in small amounts.  They are used as part of enzymes, which serve the vital function of being catalysts to chemical reactions that run the metabolic processes of the body.     The immune system operates at maximum efficiency in the presence of...

Internal parasites can influence the health, productivity, and vitality of cattle, sheep, and goats. Their affects are most significantly seen in younger animals, as there is a level of immunity that gets acquired with age. Managing parasites is not only about choosing a good dewormer, but also about formulating a complete program for control. The parasites we are focusing on are primarily the stomach and intestinal worms. The most common and harmful of these include Ostertagia, Cooperia, Haemonchus, and Trichostrongylus. Practices established to control these also will address the other internal parasites. These parasites have evolved to maximize their reproductive...

Clean Start Pellets were introduced in 2020 as a natural/organic supportive care product with the intent of aiding the immune system in situations of challenges caused by coccidiosis, internal parasites, and pathogenic gut bacteria. The product contains micofused essential oils, prebiotics, soluble tannins, and molasses. These are all beneficial in enhancing the microbiome, promoting tight cell junctions (reducing “leaky gut” issues), maintaining the beneficial protective mucous layer in the gut, and supporting the entire immune system. Research suggests that 70% of the immune system is based on the gut.             Through use on our own farm and clinical observation in...