And just like that, it’s time for fall processing. Let’s look closely at what we’ll need to give our weaning-aged calves a leg up on their next stage of life, starting with vaccination strategy, implants and deworming.

Due to improvements in reproductive efficiencies, dairies can now be more selective in raising future herd replacements. This elevates the importance of reducing preventable diseases such as scours or diarrhea in newborn calves.

In recent years, mRNA vaccine technology and all its promises have drifted into public discourse. This year, the possibility of an mRNA vaccine made its way into the beef world, sparking debates, rumors and uncertainty, prompting public statements from major industry leaders.

It would be handy to have a crystal ball at dry-off time. After freshening, will the cow produce high-quality colostrum that transfers needed antibodies to her calf? Will she freshen without mastitis?

John Law published a paper in 2006 in the journal Environment and Planning about the situation “developed” countries of the world find themselves in. They are precariously vulnerable to an incursion of a fast-moving animal disease that exists elsewhere in the world.

Vaccines are great preventative measures producers can use to protect their cattle, but that’s only when they work properly. There are a multitude of reasons vaccines can fail, and knowing solutions will help protect and prevent vaccine failure within your herd.

Most folks think summertime is typically a time to relax for cattle owners. If we’ve had sufficient rain and grass is good, we can turn cows out and not worry too much except to check water, fences and put out summer mineral. However, there are a few calf diseases that can change those plans.

Cattle producers invest their time and resources in the best vaccination protocols and nutritional programs. However, these efforts are not fully utilized without an effective deworming strategy. Why? 

As cow-calf producers and veterinarians evaluate options for pre-breeding vaccinations on heifers and cows, it is critical to think about the long-term effects of the disease pathogens that you are protecting against.