The cows are preg-checked, being fed and we are in that unhurried phase of the year, waiting for that first calf needing assistance or care. For veterinarians, this is the time for contemplation, reflection and strategic thinking. What occurred in our geographic region and in the U.S. as a whole in 2011 that impacted and will continue to impact our industry? On a global level, what circumstances are altering the way we practice?

One requirement for making a profit in the cattle business is to have a good working relationship with a large-animal veterinarian.

Any novice bird hunter or skeet shooter quickly learns one simple truth – it’s hard to hit a moving target. But those drawing a bead on clay pigeons or pheasants do have one distinct advantage. They usually have a clear, unobstructed view of their target.

The most common illness in young calves is scours. According to George Barrington of Washington State University, diarrhea results in the greatest economic loss from disease in this age group.

Cattle ranchers in the South have come through one of the most severe droughts to hit the history books.

Over the last 20 to 30 years, beef producers have made great use of genetic selection tools to improve economically important traits in their herds.

Looking back, U.S. agricultural industries have changed dramatically over the past decade. Given mounting political, social, technological and economic pressures, it is safe to assume not only that change will continue, but that it could even increase in rapidity.

Three giant lobby groups from an alternative time warp are engaged in a furious hissy fit whose purpose is raising money to pay lawyers. “Send money so we can litigate, pay company executives and solicit more funds!” “Animals are overrunning government property,” they exclaimed, “… and endangering the environment. These are domestic animals that have been turned loose to fend for themselves and have multiplied exponentially!” Sound familiar? Yes, the lobby groups are the usual suspects: Sierra Club, Audubon Society and the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS).

The 127th Annual Montana Stockgrowers Association Convention and Trade Show, held at the Holiday Inn Grand Montana in Billings, Dec. 15-17, drew over 740 participants from across the state.