Most veterinarians recommend vaccinating nursing calves against clostridial, respiratory and digestive pathogens at 2 months old to bolster immunity against those pathogens.

With societal and political pressure surrounding antibiotic use in food animals, preventing disease outbreaks is increasingly important. The words “immunization, not just vaccination” may sound familiar in the context of discussing vaccines, but what is really meant?

It’s time to work cattle. You’ve gotten the vaccines and all you have to do is load syringes and you’re good to go, right? 

Have you, or a cattle producer friend, ever encountered a situation where you vaccinated your cow herd against rotavirus scours but still had problems with rotavirus scours? What about experiencing a Histophilus somni (H. somni) break in pens of vaccinated feedlot calves? Or Mycoplasma bovis (M. bovis)? Or pinkeye?

Vaccine products that are administered to cattle are foreign to the animal’s body. The goal is for the body to recognize these foreign organisms and develop an immune response for protection in the event of a future disease challenge.

A vet shares her experiences creating and implementing an autogenous vaccine for pinkeye, along with tips for treatment and prevention.

Disposable hypodermic needles are a necessary tool in maintaining cattle health. They provide a convenient and economical route to deliver products to animals in a safe and effective manner.

The term “antibiotic stewardship” might sound high level, but it’s something cattle producers and veterinarians practice every day. In human health care, antibiotic stewardship means ensuring that antibiotics are used only when necessary and appropriate.

When it comes to timing vaccinations, be sure to factor in the time needed to best optimize protection.

In the third and final segment of our coverage from the NCBA national convention, the team previews the March issue of Progressive Cattle. Abby visits with Elanco's Wayne Ayers about improving conception rates with the proper vaccine strategy. Then Tyrell sits down with Mark McCully to discuss the American Angus Association's Industry Insights survey and what benefits that data can have for American producers. Finally, Carrie talks with veterinarian Brandon Treichler about developing a crisis management plan and how that can protect ranches and the people who make them so special.