Sometimes a newborn livestock baby just won’t nurse, and suddenly you’re the one on bottle duty! Whether a mom rejected her little one or a twin needs an extra boost, raising these bottle babies is a unique adventure full of wagging tails and 2:00 AM feedings. It might seem overwhelming at first, but with the … Read more
Lice in animals can be a common problem during winter. Many farmers deal with heavyinfestations that can cause unthriftiness, reduce weight gain, and lead to economic losses.Lice affect many livestock species, including cattle, swine, poultry, sheep, and goats.Different types of lice infect humans. Animals do not carry or spread human lice. What are lice? Lice … Read more
Small farms matter! Over the coming year, The Livestock Conservancy and the Center for Food Security and Public Health at Iowa State University will develop practical animal health information made for YOU. Together, we hope to create better tools for small farmers and especially breeders, to help keep animals healthy, and to know what to … Read more
While they don’t dress up or eat candy, holidays like Halloween can benefit our livestock. This post will explain what you can do to ensure your animals stay safe during the holiday. History Halloween comes from old Celtic traditions that celebrated the harvest and the beginning of winter. It is also the time of the … Read more
As an organic farmer, you know the benefits of raising livestock organically. In this post, we celebrate and hope to raise awareness of the benefits of organic agriculture for everyone! What does “organic” mean? The National Organic Program (NOP) describes organic ag as an approach that seeks to understand how all parts of the system … Read more
Steps to help protect livestock and poultry health Fairs are a great chance for youth to learn leadership, community, and real-world skills. The importance of biosecurity while showing animals during fair season cannot be stressed enough. Consider the following before heading to the fair this year. More important tips can be found below. Resources Bring … Read more
For many farms, effective reproduction is crucial for success. Keeping your animals healthy and able to reproduce increases productivity and improves the herd’s overall health. Good reproduction management results in higher birth rates, healthier young animals, and a more efficient herd. Open livestock, which are females that are not pregnant, are common on farms. While … Read more
Especially during the summer heat, your livestock can be easily stressed and more prone to illness. Supportive therapies, such as electrolytes and fluid therapy, can assist with keeping animals healthy. Electrolytes can be crucial for maintaining the health and well-being of livestock, especially those with weakened immune systems or dehydration. Electrolytes can be used for … Read more
No matter the type of farm, lameness in livestock can happen at any time without any warning. Lameness can be a significant concern and one of the costliest diseases farmers can deal with. Organic and alternative farms prioritize animal welfare, natural living conditions, and minimize the use of chemicals and antibiotics, which can present unique … Read more
As we head into winter, there are many considerations for livestock owners to make. Making preparations for winter can save you time, money, and stress. Depending on where you live, winter can be harsh on you and your livestock. Taking small steps to prepare can prevent unnecessary stress and difficulties. Check out a few tips … Read more