Bovine respiratory disease (BRD) remains a leading health concern in Canadian feedlots. Currently, pen riders quietly surveying thousands of cattle daily are a feedlot’s main defence against this challenging disease.

All producers aim to maintain the health of their herds. Because losses from sickness and death take a toll on cattle and producers alike, it can be helpful to periodically review farm biosecurity practices.

The spring season brings longer days, greener pastures and a sense of relief from the freezing temperatures. However, the spring also carries its own set of challenges, as it is one of the most challenging times of the year for cattle health.

While disease prevention remains the primary purpose of vaccine programs, a well-designed vaccination protocol is now an essential marketing strategy for producers selling calves into value-added and graded feeder sales.

Wildfires have become more frequent and severe across the U.S. and globally. Since the 1980s, the area burned by wildfires has increased, peaking in spring and summer. The primary driver is climate change, which extends fire seasons, raises temperatures and intensifies droughts. These conditions, along with wind, humidity and temperature shifts, contribute to unpredictable and fast-spreading fires.

Travis Lutz, with his wife, Pam; and father, Jim, has been working on his family farm and ranch for more than 40 years. He is a fourth-generation owner of the operation in Dundy County, Nebraska, tucked in the corner of the state near the Kansas and Colorado borders.

Calf health is an important consideration for dairy farmers. Disease impacts the health and welfare of calves and links to production, health and longevity of these calves as adult animals.

Illness and death of animals is frustrating, no doubt. It has been said, “If you’re going to have livestock, you’re going to have deadstock.” While it may be a cliché, it is an unfortunate reality.