Using beef sires to breed a portion of dairy females provides an opportunity to increase revenue from calf sales. As more dairy producers explore beef-on-dairy crossbreeding programs to maximize the value of every calf, the industry is learning some key insights along the way.

Treating beef-on-dairy calves with the proper care can earn you a few extra bucks at the sale barn. Read how to get the most out of your investment here.

Managing dairy calves is truly an art form. The first few weeks of a calf’s life are imperative to how productive that calf will be as an adult, from increased milk during its first lactation to achieving its full genetic potential.

There are many clichés to represent the need for the right tool to do the job. Perhaps the best one that both relates to the subject at hand, as well as in a practical application, is “don’t bring a water pistol to fight a fire.”

With the arrival of cold weather comes the increased threat of bovine respiratory disease (BRD), or calfhood pneumonia, that often comes with it. Having a plan to prevent, diagnose and treat this common yet serious disease is key to help protect your dairy’s future.

There is no doubting that colostrum management is essential in early life to achieve transfer of passive immunity. In fact, if calves achieve passive immunity, they will have a lower risk of developing diarrhea.

If bovine respiratory disease (BRD) is a challenge on your dairy, you’re not alone. BRD remains the number two killer of pre-weaned calves and is the primary cause of death in weaned calves.