Geof Smith

Preventing BRD as much as possible to help treat as little as possible

While the $250 to $280 price tag per case of calfhood pneumonia is certainly unwelcome, the real cost of pneumonia can show up throughout her life in lost milk production, delayed first calving or even an early exit from the farm.

September 24, 2024

Geof Smith

It’s no surprise that heifer survivability is 1 of 10 drivers that can affect net farm income. While treating a few cases of calfhood pneumonia every now and again may not seem like a big problem, these costs go beyond treatment and can accumulate over the lifetime of a dairy animal. Young heifers have a big job ahead of them as future members of the milking herd, and a case of bovine respiratory disease (BRD) during their first few months of life can quickly close the window of opportunity for reaching their full potential.

BRD caused by Mycoplasma bovis: It's more common than you’d expect

Mycoplasma bovis might seem harmless, but its presence increases a calf's chance of contracting BRD by 74%. Farms should focus on calf care and diagnostic and treatment protocols to develop a plan to minimize its impact.

January 30, 2024

Geof Smith

Described as a “cunning chameleon,” Mycoplasma bovis has vague symptoms with an insidious onset. It is difficult to diagnose, and treat, and producers may not even realize it is on their operation.

Three reasons genomic testing can help improve calf programs

Healthier, more productive replacement heifers begin in the calf barn. Since many farms do not need to raise every heifer, using genomic testing can help farms identify the calves with the most potential.

March 17, 2023

David Erf and Geof Smith

A dairy producer’s dream and goal is a low-maintenance herd with minimized disease instances, great fertility and longevity. Where can they achieve these results?

Protect calves with a solid BRD identification plan

Learning how to properly identify symptoms of BRD, performing routine checks during feeding, keeping detailed records, and monitoring the type and duration of antibiotic therapy can aid in the protection of youngstock from BRD.

December 28, 2022

Geof Smith

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.

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Geof Smith

ARTICLES

Preventing BRD as much as possible to help treat as little as possible

BRD caused by Mycoplasma bovis: It's more common than you’d expect

Three reasons genomic testing can help improve calf programs

Protect calves with a solid BRD identification plan

[Webinar] Dairy Market Update June 2026: Protect What You've Built Before July 1

Another summer of water worries

3 things you need to know about bedding with manure solids

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