The Beef Quality Assurance (BQA) program advocates responsible actions in cattle handling and vaccinations. There are many benefits to properly vaccinating cattle, including economic advantages. With fall vaccination season right around the corner, now is a good time to re-evaluate your herd health plan.
Recently, an ag lender in Montana calculated the economic impact of following BQA practices, such as:
- 5 lbs. of extra gain/calf because calves were handled quietly at $1.10/lb. market price is $5.50/head for a total of $1,650
- 15¢/lb. improvement in price on a couple of 1,200-lb. cull cows that were sound at time of sale rather than crippled from rough handling is another $360
In addition, a Montana Department of Livestock veterinarian reminds us of good vaccination handling practices, including:
- Keep all vaccines cool and out of the sunlight – this includes filled syringes.
Vaccinate only healthy animals and do not treat cattle with antibiotics at the same time as vaccinating.
- Keep accurate group or individual vaccination records. (The CattleMax software enables you to quickly record the same medical details for a group of cattle.)
Read the full article details and tips “The Bottom Line in BQA”
What influence has a good herd health program had on your production?
I have been practicing for about 40yrs and one thing I have told my clients is that giving a subcutaneous shot of vaccine in the fold of the flank is all right. It js very easy and you do not have to wurry about accidentally injecting the calf wrestler. There is no muscle to damage and causes the calf very little pain. The idea of animals having a better immune reaction to neck injections is BS.