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FRONT COVER PHOTO CREDIT
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EDITORIAL TEAM & PRODUCTION TEAM
Brandi Bain
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As the year winds down and winter settles in, it is time to reflect on how far we have come and prepare for the challenges ahead. This season, more than ever, we find ourselves reminded of the strong connection between people and cattle — a bond built on mutual respect, stewardship, and a shared reliance on the land. From the care of a newborn calf on a cold morning to the dedication it takes to ensure animals are well fed and healthy despite the elements, it is clear that in this industry, people and cattle thrive together. And at PAC, impacting the lives of people and cattle in the beef supply chain is our mission. 2024 marks a significant milestone for Protein Producers, as we celebrate 10 years of providing valuable insights, research, and stories to producers across the country. Over the last decade, our commitment has remained the same: to support those who feed the world. This issue brings you articles that reflect that mission.
As we look back on 15 years of PAC, we are equally proud of the growth and evolution of this company. We have seen the PAC Network expand, building stronger connections with producers, veterinarians, and industry leaders. It is these relationships that make PAC a leader in providing high-quality, practical solutions for animal care and production.
This issue is filled with practical insights for navigating the colder months. You will find timely articles on detecting and treating lameness and caring for calves on their first day of life, which address critical winter challenges, and pieces on body condition scoring and frothy bloat in stocker cattle, designed to help keep your animals healthy through the season. Additionally, the third and final installment of the “Fundamentals of Transitions in Leadership” article series offers important insights for guiding your team through change.
As always, this magazine is more than just words on a page — it is a reflection of the shared commitment and passion that drives our industry. Here’s to another season of hard work, care for our cattle, and continuing to build a better future for both people and animals.
Thank you for being part of the journey, and here’s to a successful winter.
Dan Thomson, PhD, DVM
Production Animal Consultation
Manhattan, Kansas
THANK YOU
We want to thank the industry partners, publications and associations who have provided content to Protein Producers Also, a big thank you to our readers for supporting us, offering content and helping us improve each issue. We could not do any of this without all of you!
Disclaimer: The views, opinions and information expressed in this magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect Production Animal Consultation’s policy or position.
By Kristina Porter, DVM, Kleinsasser-Porter Veterinary Service, Production Animal Consultation
It is calving season! You have done your best to prepare. The cows are in good shape, calving pens are ready. You have been working hard all year for this moment! As the calf hits the ground, it is easy to forget the little details that set that baby up for success. Let’s look at small things that make a big difference not only on day one, but for the life of that calf.
Birth is stressful for mom and baby! Anything we can do to not add to that stress will aid the calf’s development. In the first moments of the calf’s life, bonding is essential. Tagging the calf is ok; weighing and banding are essential steps on some operations. But how we do it can make a real difference. Delay all interventions until momma and baby have had a chance to bond. Mom licking off the calf promotes circulation in the calf and can encourage the calf to get up and moving.
Do cows tend to run off when you tag their calf? If so, it is time to rethink your approach. Making tags from a distance (instead of while you are kneeling on her calf) can help momma stay calm. If you have multiple procedures to do, a sling where mom and baby can be nose to nose while you are working on the calf may be useful to keep the cow calm and you safe.
The navel on a calf is an easy entrance for pathogens. Spray bottles of iodine are handy and there are benefits such as not using a dirty cup to dip navels in. But the big drawback to a spray bottle is not getting adequate coverage of the navel. A small, clean cup is still the best way to disinfect a navel. Use a small, bathroom size disposable cup. Put in a little iodine tincture. Hold the cup all the way to the body all and give it a shake. Then throw away the cup! The alcohol in the iodine tincture will help dry out the navel as well. Teat dips are handy disinfectants but are designed to keep the teat soft and moist. We want the navel to dry. Therefore, teat dips are not a good alternative for navel disinfection. Even the best attempts at disinfecting the navel are no match for a dirty environment. Clean, dry bedding is vital for reducing the risk of navel infections. Continue to monitor newborn calves for navel infections. If you see swelling, any abnormal smell, or the calf is painful
in the navel area, treat as soon as possible. Talk to your veterinarian about best treatment options.
A newborn calf is depending on the immunoglobulins in colostrum to respond to disease. Colostrum is vital for a functioning immune system for the rest of the calf’s life. Timing, quality, and quantity matter. A calf’s ability to absorb colostrum begins to decline hours after birth. An average beef calf should receive at least two quarts by four hours after birth and at least another two by 12 hours after birth. By 12 hours, the calf’s ability to absorb colostrum is almost gone. A big calf, such as a Holstein, will need more. If a cow is unable to provide colostrum to her calf, colostrum from an older cow in your herd is a great option. If you need to use a powdered mix, remember, all colostrum products are not equal! Be sure to purchase a replacement, not a supplement. Your veterinarian can help you select the best product.
We are starting to see other exciting benefits from colostrum! It has been a game changer in scour treatment for my practice. Many scour causes are not bacterial, so antibiotics will not help. When used, we are then left dealing with the side effects of antibiotics, like killing off essential bacteria in the gut. We are beginning to learn that colostrum may help in treatment of scours if given early in disease and reduce the need for antibiotics. We have a lot to learn about how and why colostrum helps. It could be the disease protecting immunoglobins, high fat content or high mineral and vitamin levels. Whatever the cause, it seems that colostrum has a calming effect on inflamed intestines. Stay tuned as we learn more in the years to come. For right now, there are no downsides to trying it! You do not need the higher priced replacements. You can use the colostrum supplements for this one. Use it early and more than once. It just may keep you from having a serious
scour problem this year. Remember, dehydration kills calves. Addressing the dehydration may be the most powerful thing you can do. Check electrolyte directions and mix accordingly. Some can be mixed with milk replacer, but most cannot.
Calving season can be the most rewarding time of the year and, the most discouraging. Be prepared, but be flexible. Remember, we are called to do the best we can, and it does not always go
our way. Please take care of yourself and your crew as well. We make checklists for needs of newborn calves. Do not forget about the needs of the twolegged part of the equation. One cannot live on coffee alone! Rest and adequate fuel are just as important for you to get calving season off to the right start. Wishing you and your calves a fantastic start to a successful year.
Dr. Kristina Porter is a veterinarian from Huron, South Dakota. Dr. Porter received her BS in Animal Science from Kansas State University in 2008 and her DVM from the College of Veterinary Medicine at Kansas State in 2010. Dr. Porter and her husband, also a veterinarian, practice in eastern South Dakota while raising their daughters and working on the family ranch. Dr. Porter has spent most of her career focusing on reproduction to maximize performance and profitability for her clients as well as using animal handling to create the healthiest, most efficient animal possible.
By Beth Reynolds, Iowa State University Extension & Outreach
Assigning a body condition score (BCS) to individual beef cattle is a recommended practice because as an indicator of nutrient reserves, it is correlated to economically important performance measures. Although it can seem tedious if utilized, assigning BCS is free to collect, simple, and is one of the best measures for monitoring nutritional status throughout the year. On the other hand, if not utilized, BCS becomes information collected that is simply wasted.
Who: Although BCS can be called on all ages and classes of cattle, it is most used for females in the breeding herd. For young, growing cattle, BCS can help formulate a diet plan. Often cattle under a year of age are sorted into “green” or “fleshy” rather than being assigned a particular condition. In terms of who should be calling BCS scores in the cow herd, it could be any producer actively managing the nutrition plan to optimize performance while keeping the feed bill in check. This can be said for both grazing operations and operations that feed stored feeds throughout the year.
What: Body condition scores are simply a visual measure of fat reserves on an animal. For beef cattle, the one (emaciated) to nine (obese) scale has thorough descriptions for each score that can be reviewed at https://guidelines.beefimprovement. org/index.php/Body_Condition_Scores. For example, to be a BCS seven, a cow is considered fleshy, with a full brisket that is not distended. The spine can only be felt with firm pressure and the topline begins to appear squarer. Ideal BCS for breeding cows is in the five to six range, with young, first-calf heifers ideally carrying more fat reserves than mature cows, due to their increased nutritional demands.
When: BCS for the cow herd should be observed at multiple timepoints during the year, as a regular practice to evaluate nutritional status. A herd BCS can be given by assessing a percentage of the females at a point in time. Tracking BCS on individual animals anytime individual data is recorded can be beneficial to get a better representation of the herd and to identify management opportunities. The two
timepoint recordings for individual cow BCS are recommended at calving and sometime between weaning and the start of the third trimester, which often correlates with preg checking. After weaning and in late fall/early winter, the female experiences some of her lowest nutritional requirements and is the most cost-effective timepoint to add condition if needed before calving.
Where: To start, many producers prefer putting hands on the cow when calling body condition score, which limits them to assessing BCS in a chute. However, this is not always feasible, and BCS can be assigned whenever the producer is able to get a good look at a female from a relatively close distance. Getting a profile and rear view is helpful to assess all body parts important in BCS score descriptions. This includes evaluating the spine, ribs, brisket, tailhead, hooks, and pins. In the colder months, be wary of the winter hair coat concealing bones structures that would be visible in a summer coat. Ensure fat cover, not a combination of fat and hair, is evaluated when calling BCS. For each timepoint BCS are taken, it is important to be consistent with who is calling BCS, and the visual or hands on evaluation they use.
Why: At the end of the day, why BCS? This measure has been utilized in numerous studies and is correlated to multiple performance indicators in the cowherd. At calving, it is encouraged to collect a BCS because BCS is correlated to how long it takes the calf to stand after parturition, total colostrum volume, and colostrum quality. More notably, multiple studies have shown a direct correlation between cow BCS at calving and postpartum
interval. As BCS increases, postpartum interval decreases, meaning cows carrying more condition will return to estrous earlier than underconditioned counterparts, and have a higher likelihood to breed earlier in the breeding season. Correlations between BCS and subsequent breeding pregnancy rates have demonstrated the same relationship: cows with a BCS of five plus have better reproductive success.
To put the value of managing BCS in perspective, table 1 was adapted from a Florida publication. Although there are multiple assumptions, by accounting for pregnancy rate and calf performance differences expected from underconditioned cows, managing a five to six body condition score drastically impacts the yearly cow income. This table only accounts for postpartum interval and pregnancy rate differences expected with different BCS scores and does not capture other benefits of adequate BCS. Higher BCS scores of seven plus are not included, in part because we do not expect to see much more of a production increase, and
because feeding cattle to maintain a BCS seven plus is expensive. Additionally, excess fat reserves begin to have negative performance consequences as well.
With BCS data in hand, producers can then make management changes. Some changes may look like a supplementation program on pasture after cows calved with less-than-ideal condition. If taken after weaning, producers can sort cows into feeding groups based on age, pregnancy status, and condition. Under conditioned, pregnant cows can be managed together to achieve a BCS 5 or 6 by calving without overfeeding the cows evaluated as a BCS 6. For open cows, BCS can be utilized to sort females into a “market ready” group or an underconditioned group that pose a feeding opportunity and will rapidly put on weight. Ultimately, body condition scoring is a low-cost, useful piece of information that can be used as a nutritional management tool.
a Adapted from Kunkle et al., 1998 UF/IFAS Publication SP-144
b Body Condition Score: scale of 1 (thin) to 9 (obese)
c Pregnancy rates averaged across trials in Texas, Oklahoma and Florida when BCS was assessed at calving, breeding, and pregnancy testing.
d Weaning age; 240 days for cows in BCS 5 and 6 and decreases as calving intervals increase.
e Average Daily Gain
f Adjusted Weaning Weight; calculated as calf age times calf gain plus birth weight (70 lb).
g Price projected using Price Forecasting tool on October 15, 2024 (https://beefbasis.com/basis-forecasting/).
Assumed sale date of 11/1/2024 for 50 head of medium to large frame steers with a muscling score of 1.
h Calculated as calf weight times calf price.
I Calculated as income/calf times pregnancy rate times 0.92 (% calves raised of those pregnant).
Beth Reynolds is the program specialist for the Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, Iowa Beef Center. She grew up on a diversified crop and cattle operation in northeast Colorado before attending the University of Wyoming. Upon completing her undergraduate degree, Beth got her M.S. in Animal Science at the University of Nebraska – Lincoln working with the ruminant nutrition group. As a beef specialist, Beth’s outreach program primarily focuses on cow-calf production and forage management. In addition to her role at the Iowa Beef Center, Beth helps her husband manage their cow-calf operation, and above all, enjoys raising her family in the Midwest.
Discover the importance of proper supplementation to maintain cattle health in winter.
When you were a kid, would your parents remind you (daily) to take your vitamins? Like they were important to your upbringing, they are important for your herd, too. Winter cattle nutrition is especially crucial.
For about 35 years, Chris Cassady, PhD, Technical Sales Field Manager at BioZyme, and his family have raised Angus cattle in Illinois. They sell seedstock, bulls, and a lot of show heifers, he said. When asked about the importance of cattle supplements, and his best piece of advice to fellow cattlemen based on his own operation, he said: “You have got to have a goal and match your genetics to your environment, but do not cut corners on your nutritional regimen or supplementation. Doing so will cost you in the long run.” Dr. Cassady shared how winter is especially not the time to cut corners on nutrition. “When temperatures drop in the winter, their requirements for maintenance are going to go up biologically. Cold weather can clearly stress cattle; that is where supplementation becomes even more important,” Dr. Cassady said.
1. What is the importance of vitamins and minerals for cattle?
“The importance of cattle supplements is broad and very multifaceted,” Dr. Cassady said. “We know that the nutritional requirements of these animals change drastically during different stages of production, whether they are in lactation, pre-calving, or breeding season. If you are at a time where your animal has a biological ‘extra requirement’ for some nutrient, whether that be protein, energy, mineral, or vitamin, and they do not receive it via supplementation, there can be negative impacts such as health, reproductive efficiency, or lack of performance. And all of those things combined are going to affect your bottom line. Minerals are key. There are links for zinc and reproductive efficiency. There are links to copper and immune health. There are links to zinc and immune health. I could go on and on.” Of health concerns relating to nutrient deficiency, there are many, states Tony Hawkins, DVM, Consulting Veterinarian. “If an animal is too thin, they are in a state of cachexia and breaking down their own body to support their bodily functions,” warns Dr. Hawkins. “This situation makes their immune system weak. Many trace minerals are important for immune function. Deficiencies in any one mineral will cause a decrease in immune function. Nutrient deficiencies also can cause weak hooves, cracks, and a decreased ability to fight off any problems that arise. Regarding reproductive efficiency, I have been involved in a herd workup with a severe
copper deficiency. The herdsman noticed decreased reproductive success and severely compromised immune systems, which manifested as cattle that were predisposed to health conditions and unable to fight off minor illnesses.”
2. How are vitamins and minerals for cattle absorbed?
“They are absorbed in a multitude of different ways,” explained Dr. Cassady. “You cannot just provide a mineral in the elemental form. There are organic sources and inorganic sources, and because of that, they all have different bioavailability. And what that means is, if they are able to be utilized by that animal in the blood system or in circulation, then they are bioavailable. They have gone across the intestinal wall and are available to the animal. Because of rumen fermentation, some of those products are delivered and broken down by microbes, so they no longer become available. But mostly, the higher-quality, more bioavailable ones are able to escape that degradation process and are absorbed in the small intestine.”
3. Do all classes of cattle benefit from supplements?
“Whether your cattle are commercial or show, they are still biologically similar,” shares Dr. Cassady. “A ruminant is a ruminant, and the way the science has designed these products allows us to use them across all different breed types and purposes, whether they are exhibition bound or they are commercial cattle. Whether you are hauling a show heifer to Oklahoma City for the Cattlemen’s Congress or you are weaning a stocker calf, you incite some level of stress. These products help cattle to get eating and drinking again, because that is really the important part. When animals get stressed, there is a lot of different blood metabolites that fluctuate, and one of the most common things that they do when they are stressed is to go off feed. They do not eat; they do not drink. And when there is not a constant flux of substrates and constant regulation of rumen fermentation, we start to see some big challenges on gut health. Having that mineral balance is very critical because we do not want those animals to suffer from a performance standpoint.”
This is the final article in this series on transitioning your team, organization, or family business to a new generation of leaders. If you have not read the first two articles in the series, I encourage you to do so now! If you want your business to succeed well beyond you, I promise you will not be wasting your time. If you have read the first two articles, please proceed. We are going to dive right in on the next steps in this transition process, including creating healthy boundaries, clearly defining roles, expertly designing governance documents, and reaching out for help.
By Nels Lindberg, DVM, Production Animal Consultation
Healthy boundaries are a necessity for organizational health in all leadership teams and organizations. In any business, people make decisions, say things, and do things that affect others. Many times, patterns of selfish behavior are the issue, and establishing healthy boundaries within a team ensures mutual respect, prevents misunderstandings, and helps maintain organizational health.
Have you ever had a scenario where you were leading one part of the operation and your sibling, parent, or partner who was leading another part of the operation made a decision that impacted the part of the operation you were leading? For example, let’s say you lead the cattle side of the operation, and your sibling runs the farming and finance side of the operation. Your sibling decides to stop planting rye or wheat on a couple quarters that you normally graze without consulting you. No matter the type of organization or operation,
when one person makes a decision that impacts another area of the operation without seeking input from the other leader, it leads to tension, trust issues, and the feeling of imbalance in decision making, power, and control. If repeated often, this will strain both personal relationships and the effectiveness of the business.
Boundaries are also a challenge when things get personal or when team members or leaders make decisions or act contrary to the mission, vision, and values of the business. Has a team member ever been less than 100% honest, failed to hold up their end of the deal, or not done what they said they would do? Sometimes someone else’s behavior is extreme enough that it affects your decision making or the health of the business. Healthy boundaries are necessary in every operation, especially when working with people that lack self-awareness or tend to manipulate others. Here are some signs people might exhibit that indicate a need for clear boundaries:
• Taking on others’ responsibilities
• Making unilateral decisions, or unilaterally overriding previously made decisions
• Constantly contacting people in off hours
• Taking credit for others’ work
• Attacking the performer and not the performance
• Micromanaging others
• Frequently changing priorities
“Who does what” is a basic concept but often neglected because we want all team members to be willing and able to do anything in the operation at any time. We do not want to start a “that’s not my job” mentality in our organization. In smaller operations, there are often many “grey areas” concerning who does what. Having people that can wear many different hats is a strength of most small businesses, but it can also be a weakness because lack of clarity in roles often has unintended consequences, such as:
• Confusion for one person or an entire team
• Tension between two people or an entire team
• Lack of clarity in decision making
• Conflict and misunderstanding
• Accountability issues
• Emotional stress
• Strained relationships
• Hurt feelings
• Decreased productivity
In the end, lack of clarity in roles will create issues for the whole team or organization, as well as major challenges in executing the transition in leadership, ownership, decision making, control, and power. To create clarity, put on paper who does what, when they do it, and how they do it. This can be done by the founder or CEO, but it is best if everyone can work on this together. The goal is to allow people to do what they are best at
and to pursue what they are passionate about with the basic understanding that everyone may have some things they are responsible for that they may not enjoy.
I am not an expert on governance, but I wanted to share a few observations from my experiences. Governance documents create legal clarity in exactly how things play out and decisions are made over the coming years, decades, and generations through changes in ownership, decision making, control, and power. This is very important for all businesses, regardless of size, to help ensure things are done correctly and in line with the wishes of the leaders in charge of the stewardship and legacy of the business. The appropriate governance documents will vary from business to business. Two documents which may be relevant are a trust and an operating agreement. In basic terms, trusts outline how ownership is passed on, and operating agreements outline how owners operate.
To be honest, I despise reading legal documents. However, they are necessary for the sustainability and longevity of your legacy operation. While we often look for areas to save money, this is not the area to do so. Look for a legal team or organization that does succession planning specifically. Cost will vary depending on the size of the operation, the scope of work, and the complexity of the plan, but be prepared to pay to do this right with a highly qualified legal team.
We have covered many specific actions and opportunities in the three articles in this series, and it probably feels a bit overwhelming. You are not alone. This process is not easy and will create some uncomfortable conversations, tension, stress, and challenges you may not be prepared to work through. That’s okay. Recognize that and
bring in outside help to come alongside you and your team to listen and assess what is best for the legacy of your operation.
In the end, we must nurture ourselves so we can nurture our legacy businesses to succeed well beyond us. This series was designed to help with that, based on my observations and experiences from my family, owning a veterinary clinic, being a partner in multiple businesses, and walking alongside several businesses going through transitions. Seeing others experience and
personally feeling the visceral pain of progressing through a business transition has inspired me to help shed some light on these journeys in the hope that I can help you avoid some of the same pain.
It is not easy, but if you reach out for help and keep rowing the boat through this process, your legacy operation will succeed well beyond you and into multiple generations. Isn’t that your real goal? It is mine! Stay focused and keep moving forward! Your team needs you to lead on this!
Dr. Nels Lindberg is a people coach, team coach, business coach, and keynote speaker, available virtually or in person. If you have any interest in these opportunities, please reach out to his office at 620-792-1265 and visit with his right-hand lady, Jill.
By Paul Beck, PhD, Oklahoma State University Department of Animal and Food Sciences
Frothy bloat is a major cause of concern for cattle grazing wheat, other small grain pastures, and legume pastures. Bloat is caused by the buildup of ruminal gases that occurs when fermentation gas production is greater than gas expulsion via eructation, due to blockage caused by a buildup of a stable foam in the rumen causing esophageal blocking. Incidences of bloat and death losses from wheat pasture bloat can strike suddenly and without warning; the causes of wheat pasture bloat depend on forage conditions, weather, stocking rates, and other management. The formation of a stable foam is due to a viscous slime layer on the top of the rumen mat formed from soluble proteins and carbohydrates released from the forage during digestion. Gases released through fermentation percolate through the slime layer forming a stable foam, which entraps ruminal gases, which then build up in the rumen. The chemical composition of wheat forage changes depending upon environmental growing conditions, stage of wheat plant growth or maturity, and fertility level; therefore, forage nutritive value affects the likelihood that stable ruminal foam will be formed when wheat forage is grazed.
When forage access is unlimiting, intake of wheat forage can be quite high, often over 2.8% to 3% of a calf’s bodyweight on a dry matter basis. During the fall and early spring when forage growth rates are high, moisture content of wheat forage can be up to 75% to 85%, so forage intakes on an ‘as-grazed’ basis can be 60 to 100 pounds of total forage for a 500-pound steer. The high forage intake rate and the rapid ruminal fermentation rate of wheat forage leads to production of rumen fermentation gases in large volumes, leading to bloat when eructation is inhibited.
Wheat forage ranges from 17% in the spring to over 30% CP in the fall on a dry matter basis. At the times of year that wheat pasture frothy bloat is usually encountered, in the late winter and early spring, wheat forage is leafy, high in moisture and has CP contents of 25% to 30%. It is suspected that there is a relationship between the incidence of bloat in stocker cattle and CP, DM, and cell wall content of wheat forage. Research by Horn and others from 1977 reported that pastures where bloat occurred had less dry matter (higher moisture) and fiber (both neutral detergent fiber and acid detergent fiber), and greater concentrations of CP, and soluble N fractions. This indicates that there is a subtle relationship among growing conditions, soil fertility management, and stocking rates as they affect
wheat forage maturity, forage intake, and the incidence of bloat.
Mature wheat forage, i.e., forage with more days of growth accumulation, has greater cell wall and dry matter concentration than less mature wheat forage. The greater fiber (both ADF and NDF) and dry matter concentration likely reduces bloat-provocative, soluble protein and carbohydrate compounds. Greater fiber content also promotes ruminal contraction, rumination, and saliva production, which also has impacts on formation of the ruminal foam associated with bloat. Bloat occurs more frequently when wheat forage is rapidly growing and succulent in the fall and late-winter,
through early March. This can be related to climatic conditions, such as when frost occurs following a period of rapid forage growth. The freezing temperatures tend to rupture plant cell walls and increase fragility and fractionation of leaf tissue that can result in rapid release of soluble cell contents conducive to ruminal foam formation.
Grazing behavior of hungry cattle leads to rapid consumption on initial turnout onto pastures. This can be a problem when rotational grazing management allows cattle to overgraze a paddock (reducing forage intake and increasing hunger) before turnout to the next paddock. A more common and practically important occurrence is during weather events in the late winter and early spring. We often observe periods of limited grazing ahead of a storm front, with intensive grazing activity by hungry cattle after the front’s passing. Gregorini et al. in 2007 showed that cattle with lesser rumen fill had more rapid forage intake rates in forages, which is problematic for forages that are at a higher risk of bloat provocation.
Mineral status associated with wheat pasture may also affect bloat. Wheat forage contains marginal to sufficient phosphorus and magnesium, has excessively high levels of potassium, and calcium is inadequate for growing cattle. The high potassium interacts with the marginally sufficient magnesium content of wheat forage. Magnesium content of forages appears to be adequate but is of concern due to interactions of Mg with high N and K in small grain forages. Thus, additional Ca is needed to meet the requirements of Ca for growth and to prevent a subclinical Ca deficiency. Calcium and magnesium have roles in muscle contraction; thus, deficiencies could compromise ruminal motility and contribute to bloat.
The ionophore monensin has been shown to decrease the incidence and severity of wheat pasture bloat, although it has not been shown to prevent bloat. A meta-analysis of experiments comparing the severity of bloat in cattle grazing high-quality, bloat-provocative pastures indicated that feeding monensin resulted in a 20% unit decrease in the incidence of bloat and also decreased mean bloat score.
Poloxalene has been available to reduce the impacts of pasture bloat for over 60 years. Because poloxalene acts as a surfactant, it can reduce foam formation from bloat provocative pastures and release entrapped gas. When bloat occurs, poloxalene should be fed at dosages of one to two grams per 100 pounds of BW daily. Poloxalene is commercially available in a variety of forms for use in grazing programs, including feed additives, top dresses for concentrate supplements, mineral supplements, blocks, and liquid feeds. Although self-fed formulations of providing poloxalene are available, it must be consumed by the animals daily, thus hand feeding of at-risk animals should be considered during periods of high bloat risk.
Poloxalene has not been shown to increase weight gains or performance, so it is often not economical to feed poloxalene supplements throughout wheat pasture grazing. Monensin has advantages in improving BW gain performance and reducing the incidence and severity of bloat. Thus, a common strategy for managing bloat is to provide a supplement containing monensin to calves throughout the wheat pasture grazing period and substitute a similar, poloxalene-containing supplement during times of bloat outbreaks. With this approach, cattle are accustomed to going to a feeder when poloxalene feeding is needed, while the increased weight gain from the monensin improves the economics of the total supplementation program. We recommend producers should not wait until a challenge arises to introduce a novel supplement or supplement delivery program. To maximize the success of this bloat prevention strategy, calves should be acclimated to feeders and supplementation during preconditioning prior to turn out onto wheat pasture and supplementation should be maintained during grazing.
Cattle producers do not have to live with the threat of bloat and they do not have to sacrifice quality forage systems to avoid it. There are options that make economic sense; producers have choices and simply need to find the plan that fits best with their production goals.
Dr. Paul Beck was raised on a wheat and stocker cattle operation in central Oklahoma, has B.S. and M.S. degrees from Oklahoma State University and a Ph.D. from University of Arkansas. He was Extension Forage and Beef Cattle Specialist at the University of Arkansas Southwest Research & Extension Center for 21 years. Paul and his wife Melissa moved back to Stillwater, OK, in 2018 where Paul serves Oklahoma State University Department of Animal and Food Sciences as the State Extension Beef Cattle Nutrition Specialist for beef stocker and feedlot nutrition.
By Kip Lukasiewicz, DVM, Production Animal Consultation
Winter is fast approaching, and typically in our industry, we quickly forget the harsh weather events that set us back the last couple of years. And of course, nobody wants to remember the bomb cyclone of 2019. However, for many producers this year, our winter pen conditions were poor and cattle never fully compensated for the winter impact in terms of carcass weight or live gain, and in many cases, it set our cattle back significantly and financially. Those producers who were more progressive on their pen conditions had great success in health and performance of their cattle. This article will cover our 2024–2025 winter weather predictions as well as discuss the options that are available. Planning is everything, ensuring that we have the supplies, equipment, and labor necessary to complete the plan for those periods when Mother Nature slams us with some harsh winter weather.
The Farmers' Almanac winter forecast for 2024-2025 anticipates that Nebraska, Kansas, Iowa, and Colorado may experience a “wet whirlwind” of weather, influenced by an El Niño cycle. Here is a region-by-region summary:
1. Nebraska and Iowa (part of the "Heartland" region) are predicted to have a warmer winter than usual, with the coldest temperatures hitting in late January through February. Snowfall and precipitation will likely be below normal, with the most significant snowfall expected toward the end of January.1,2
2. Kansas is expected to follow similar trends, with warmer-than-average temperatures but less precipitation and snow compared to typical winters. The heaviest snowfall will probably occur in late January.2
3. Colorado (primarily in the Rockies) may experience a mix of weather. While some parts will be warmer, others could see a fair share of snow due to the El Niño’s impact, especially in the mountains. Precipitation might be more common at higher elevations, with increased chances of snowstorms.1
This winter’s forecast suggests fewer prolonged cold spells but sporadic cold snaps and precipitation across these states. Expect a milder, drier season with bursts of winter weather from time to time.
We have been trained that corn stalk bedding is expensive and that it never works because it quickly turns to manure or slop when used. Well, I am going to be abrupt and probably abrasive to most, but the reason this occurs is that we are trying to place bedding on a wet, sloppy surface with no preparation of the surface or no long-term plan of how we are going to use the corn stalks effectively. For those of us who have not been as successful as we want to be and value the comfort of our livestock, going into the winter with a bed pack plan is essential.
Creating an effective bed pack for cattle with corn stalks involves layering and managing bedding to keep it dry and insulated. This practice provides warmth and comfort for the animals during winter while managing surface conditions. Here is a step-by-step guide to building a proper bed pack with corn stalks.
1. Site Selection and Preparation
• Choose a well-drained, slightly elevated area to avoid water accumulation.
• Ensure proper drainage by grading the area, and, if possible, placing a slight slope for water runoff.
• Start with a solid base layer to absorb moisture, which may include used bedding, sand, or gravel to improve drainage.
• It is best is to start building the bed pack on a dry surface in mid to late November and continue the practice for the next four to five months.
2. Bedding Layering Process
• First Layer: Spread a thick layer (six to eight inches) of corn stalks over the prepared ground. Chopped or shredded corn stalks work best because they create a denser, more absorbent layer.
• Ensure that you provide an area of 20 square feet per animal so that the entire pen can lay down.
• Continuous Layering: Add fresh corn stalks every few days, or as they become compressed, damp, or soiled. This continuous layering will help maintain insulation and prevent a wet surface, which can lead to mud and ammonia buildup.
• Aim to keep the bedding at least 12 inches deep to provide adequate warmth and comfort.
3. Daily Management
• Regularly add fresh layers on top as the stalks break down. For effective moisture absorption, monitor the bed’s condition and add bedding as needed, especially after wet weather.
• Check for signs of ammonia buildup (such as odor), and if present, increase the bedding layer or provide better ventilation.
• Maintain the bed pack until spring by keeping the top layer dry, which helps control bacteria and reduces odor.
4. Compaction and Aeration
• Corn stalks tend to compact over time under cattle weight. Periodic stirring or adding more bedding helps maintain insulation and airflow within the bed pack.
• Avoid excessive compaction, as this can reduce absorbency and result in a colder, less comfortable environment.
5. Waste Management and Cleaning
• At the end of winter, thoroughly clean out the bed pack and spread it as manure on fields. Corn stalks decompose well and add organic matter to the soil, providing a sustainable use for the bedding.
Dr. Dan Thomson and Dr. Erik Lowe have worked with yards in Iowa that are working to perfect this and had great success this last winter season. They provided the following information and Dr. Erik coined the term “Bedding Intelligence” (BI) for understanding and improving upon what we already know.
1. Assuming five months of bedding:
• 40 bales per pen of 100 head is needed.
• Two bales per week per 100 head is needed and at times one to two more pending moisture.
• Common to be six to eight bales per week in typical dirt pens (150–200 head) during peak winter cold and spring mud.
• This will provide ten square foot per head bedding area and I suggest doubling this as we want all cattle to lay down at once if needed.
• 0.5 – 1 bale per head of capacity for typical bedding period.
2. Ensure that we manage the pen surface around the bed pack. Our best approach for snow is to pile it and remove it. If we cannot accomplish this, we then need to pile it in an area that once it melts the water drains away from the bunk and water and bed pack areas.
Bottomline, our industry needs to adopt methods to provide cattle a comfortable environment for sustainable health and growth of the animals even in the harshest conditions. Waiting to implement this procedure will only lead to failure.
1. https://www.bobvila.com/interior/farmers-almanac-winter-forecast-2024/ 2. https://www.farmersalmanac.com/
Dr. Kip Lukasiewicz received his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree in 1999 from Kansas State University. He is the owner of Sandhills Cattle Consultants, Inc. and a partner with Production Animal Consultation, LLC. Dr. Kip’s primary focus is feedlot consulting, animal handling, and facility design. Dr. Kip trained under the late Bud Williams and has worked and trained extensively with Dr. Tom Noffsinger utilizing Bud’s thoughts on low-stress cattle handling and caregiving. Dr. Kip along with Dr. Tom works and trains with over 20% of the US fed cattle industry and also travels to Canada training feedlot clients on low-stress cattle handling and caregiving. Dr. Kip resides in Farwell, Nebraska, with his wife, and they have two children. He is an active member of the Academy of Veterinary Consultants, Nebraska Veterinary Medical Association, and American Association of Bovine Practitioners.
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By Shane Terrell, DVM, PhD, Production Animal Consultation
s a veterinarian specializing in lameness, I have spent years working with cattle producers across the country, helping them manage one of the most common but often overlooked issues in their herds. Lameness can cause significant losses in production, affect animal welfare, and lead to costly interventions if not addressed early. Detecting and treating lameness in cattle is critical to maintaining a healthy, productive herd. My goal is to share some practical tools and strategies that ranchers can use to identify lameness early and treat it effectively.
The first and most important part of managing lameness is timing. In any disease process, timing of intervention is key to the animal's recovery. When it comes to lameness, you have to be systematic in your evaluation of the cattle. Not every case requires immediate intervention, but deciding when to step in is crucial. A simple scoring system, like the locomotion scoring system I helped develop, can make a world of difference. It’s a one-to-three scale that helps you evaluate the severity of lameness and guides you on when to treat. At a locomotion score of zero, the animal is normal, showing no signs of lameness. As you observe the animal’s gait, you will notice that its hind foot should land in the same spot as the front foot. That symmetry is what we are looking for in a healthy animal. Once you start seeing a shortened stride, where one of the back feet does not reach the same distance in comparison to the front foot’s track as the other back foot, that is a score of one. At this stage, the animal may not need immediate intervention, but it is a sign to monitor closely. If the lameness does not improve after a few days, or if it worsens, it is time to act.
A score of two is when you need to intervene. These cattle will often show a head bob as they shift their weight to avoid putting pressure on the affected limb. You will also be able to identify which leg is causing the issue. At this point, pulling the animal for treatment is necessary to prevent the condition from worsening. If left unchecked, a score of two can quickly escalate to a score of three, where the animal is no longer willing to bear any weight on the affected limb. By this stage, the situation becomes much more serious, potentially leading to catastrophic lameness, salvage slaughter, or even death. When it comes to treatment, getting the right diagnosis is half the battle. Common causes of lameness include infectious issues like foot rot and hairy heel wart, as well as physical injuries like toe and sole abscesses. In cases of foot rot, you will see swelling between the toes, and the affected foot will splay out as the infection progresses. Hairy heel wart, on the other hand, typically
shows up as a painful lesion in the heel area, often mistaken for foot rot. Identifying the correct cause of the lameness is critical to implementing the right treatment. For physical causes like toe or sole abscesses, hoof testers are your best friend. They help identify areas of pain, and once you have found the problem spot, treatment may involve trimming the hoof or draining the abscess. Infections like foot rot are generally treated with antibiotics, while anti-inflammatory medications can help reduce pain and inflammation in both infectious and non-infectious cases. Always consult with your veterinarian to determine the best course of action for each individual animal.
Proper handling and restraint are also essential to effective treatment. In many operations, we use a simple rope and pulley system to restrain the affected leg. This system allows us to lift the leg safely without causing further harm to the animal or risking injury to the handler. With the leg properly restrained, we can thoroughly examine the hoof and apply the necessary treatment. If you are using a tilt table, it can make this process even easier, especially with larger cattle.
Finally, prevention is always better than treatment. One of the most overlooked aspects of preventing lameness is good pen and facility maintenance. Rough, muddy, or poorly drained pens can lead to injuries and infections. Check your facilities regularly for sharp objects or uneven surfaces that could cause lacerations. Also, be mindful of water tank leaks that can create muddy areas where bacteria thrive, leading to conditions like foot rot. Additionally, rubber mats in high-traffic areas, such as around the chute or loading facilities, can help prevent slippage and reduce the risk of injury.
By being proactive about detecting early signs of lameness, making timely decisions about treatment, and maintaining good facility conditions, we can significantly reduce the impact of lameness on our herds. Lameness is a common issue, but with the right tools and knowledge, it does not have to be a costly one.
Dr. Shane Terrell is a consulting veterinarian and has been a partner in Production Animal Consultation since 2012. His primary areas of interest are feedlot lameness and field research. Dr. Shane received his DVM, Master of Biomedical Sciences, and PhD in Diagnostic Medicine and Pathobiology from Kansas State University. He is a past participant in the Nebraska LEAD Program and is an active member of the American Association of Bovine Practitioners, Academy of Veterinary Consultants, American Veterinary Medical Association, and Nebraska Cattlemen’s Association. Dr. Shane resides in Gothenburg, Nebraska, with his wife Kelly and their children. He enjoys golfing, hunting, and working with family farming and ranching.
Kansas feeder, Carpenter Cattle Company earns the 2024 CAB Feedyard Commitment to Excellence Award
By Kylee Sellnow, Certified Angus Beef
Not everyone is cut out to be a cattle feeder. It’s an art and a science that comes with a need to overcome risk. Wayne Carpenter fed his first pen of steers in 1980 and lost money. But he stuck with it.
Today with their sons’ families, he and wife Leisha run the 15,000-head-capacity Carpenter Cattle Company.
The Brewster, Kansas, yard still has the same priorities it started with at 1,000 head: cattle care, facility management, profitability and commitment to high-quality beef. Learning and adjusting over time serve to temper the risk.
“We have to be aware and listening to all segments of the industry, including chefs, retailers and the consumer, we have to know what they do and don’t want,” Wayne says.
This dedication to feeding the best beef earned Wayne and his family the 2024 Certified Angus Beef (CAB) Feedyard Commitment to Excellence Award. They received their award in Verona, New York, at the brand’s Annual Conference in September.
Bunks are clean, waterers clear and cattle quiet. Not a day goes by that a pen isn’t fed within an hour’s deviation at the Carpenter yard.
You can find Wayne himself in the feed truck most mornings.
“It’s more than dumping feed and calling it good,” he says. “The little things in the yard, the ones you don’t think about here and there. Those add up to affect your bottom line.” The challenge drives him.
“Wayne’s not a quitter,” Leisha says. “From getting cattle marketed right to adjusting for the weather we have, he’s not afraid to take a chance to grow and try something different.”
The Carpenters have positioned their yard for success with all team members Beef Quality
Assurance (BQA) certified and the business backed by Micro Technologies precision feed management.
“Animal health, feed inventory, feed truck scales, GPS, billing, all of it is tracked through one system which has made our life a lot easier,” Wayne says. “We can run any report we need for our veterinarian or nutritionist—you name it, we can analyze it. It’s made us better.”
His customers recognize that meticulous care. Wayne McKinney runs a cow-calf operation near Weskan, Kansas, and has retained ownership of calves through Carpenter Cattle Company.
“He’s not a manager that is 200 miles away and has somebody else running it,” McKinney says. “He’s available at any time and can tell me how my cattle are doing. He’s a progressive go-getter, always making improvements.”
The Carpenter approach to embracing innovation and technology to improve results wins many admirers.
“Not only does Wayne do a quality job with the animals and the economics of the business, but the relationship is top shelf as well,” Keith Bergkamp says.
The stocker and backgrounder at Cottonwood Feeders, Cunningham, Kansas, tips his hat to the business ethics.
“I don’t know many people who work harder,” Bergkamp says. “I really appreciate his guidance. He’s always honest with me; he’s consistent and his character is top-notch.”
Carpenter commends the Angus breed for adding to the producers’ toolbox with genomics and data that point the way to CAB grid premiums. Those tools cut down on guessing when cattle are finished and how long it will take to improve them.
“We used to eyeball it or maybe look at our grids and figure it will be two years before it gets better,” Wayne says. “Now, we’ve sped that up.”
Before joining U.S. Premium Beef, the Carpenters sold pens of finished cattle on the cash market, all for the same average price. But once they started to get individual carcass data back and saw the greater value of high-quality beef, they leaned into grid marketing. They haven’t looked back.
“If it wasn’t for grids improving carcass quality and putting that quality in front of the consumer, we wouldn’t have the demand for our product today,” Wayne says. “It’s made us better cattle feeders.”
He says it takes feeding the right kind of cattle to make the most out of the grid, and they’ve been lucky to have some great partners that have made it a successful business for all of them.
“You’ve got to have quality pounds,” Wayne says. “The whole industry is pushing over 80% Choice and Prime, and I’ve got to compliment the cow-calf side of this business. They don’t always get the recognition, but it all starts there with quality genetics. We’re just a piece of the chain here at the feedyard, and it all starts at the ranch and setting calves up right.”
Wayne grew up in a family of dryland farmers and ran a few cow-calf pairs with his dad. After feeding out his first pen of steers, however, he was hooked.
“My dad told me one day, ‘You're going to go broke feeding cattle,’” Wayne chuckles. “And he was right. We've been broke three times. We always come back. Like I always told him, ‘When you were a wheat farmer and you got hailed out, did you quit? No, you kept going.’”
Success over the long term means learning from setbacks in a series of calculated risks.
“Businesses take time to grow and mature. Just make sure you enjoy what you’re doing.”
For Wayne and Leisha Carpenter, the risk has paid off.
By Dan Thomson, PhD, DVM, Production Animal Consultation
In the ever-evolving landscape of cattle health and biosecurity, disease traceability has become a crucial component in protecting the health of livestock and securing the U.S. beef export market. Animal Disease Traceability (ADT) has taken on new significance in recent years, especially as global markets demand higher standards for disease tracking and containment. To help explain the importance of ADT and the latest changes in regulations, I had the privilege of speaking with Garrett Girk, the Animal Disease Traceability Coordinator for the Kansas Department of Agriculture.
Animal Disease Traceability, or ADT, is essentially about knowing where diseased or at-risk animals have been and when. As Garrett explained, the concept dates back to the early 2000s when a case of mad cow disease, or Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (BSE), was detected in Washington. The inability to prove the origin of the infected animal, later identified as Canadian, led to significant trade barriers, with U.S. beef exports taking a seven-year hit. The USDA responded with the 2013 ADT rule, which laid the groundwork for tracking specific categories of cattle and bison across state lines.
The ADT rules have primarily applied to sexually intact cattle and bison over 18 months of age, all dairy cattle, and animals used in exhibitions or rodeo events. These classes have required official identification when crossing state lines to ensure traceability, protect trade, and prevent the spread of infectious diseases.
Garrett highlighted the changes effective November 2024 as an amendment, not a new rule, focused on the adoption of electronic identification (EID) tags to replace metal tags. This switch to EID tags addresses the challenge of human error common with metal tags, which can easily lead to misread or incorrect entries. Visual-only tags, which require manual reading, can be difficult to handle in the rough, fast-paced environment of cattle handling. Switching to EID tags provides the ability to digitally scan the tag number, minimizing human error, improving traceability, and reducing disease spread.
While this technology is advancing, Garrett noted that the industry is also exploring future possibilities like facial recognition and other biometric tools, though these remain in early development. For now, EID tags promise more immediate and accurate traceability. Alongside EID tags, many states, including Kansas, are encouraging the use of electronic certificates of veterinary inspection (e-CVIs), which offer almost real-time traceability as animals move across state lines.
Despite the move toward high-tech solutions, there are some common misconceptions about EID tags. Garrett clarified that the tags do not store any data other than their unique identification number, which is visible on the tag itself. Additionally, the EID tags can only be read at very close range, typically six inches or less, making fears of unauthorized tracking ungrounded.
from www.valleyvet.com
Garrett emphasized that while there are always concerns about cost and regulatory impact on producers, the greater cost of losing export markets or experiencing an uncontrolled disease outbreak far outweighs the cost of these preventative measures. With roughly 87.2 million head of beef cattle on U.S. farms and an estimated $10.6 billion in beef exports this year alone, the need for strong traceability systems is evident. In the state of Kansas, where agriculture significantly bolsters the economy, the ADT system helps manage the large movement of cattle into and through the state.
The new ADT amendment officially took effect on November 5, 2024, following a lengthy public comment period. While the rule applies only to the specific classes of cattle and bison identified in the 2013 regulation, it represents a shift in how traceability data is collected, maintained, and utilized to safeguard the industry.
As Garrett summed up, the new rule is not about reinventing the wheel but about making the existing traceability process more efficient and accurate. With continued advancements and cooperation between state departments, veterinarians, and producers, we can look forward to a safer, more secure industry for years to come.
For more information on ADT and animal health, producers are encouraged to consult their local veterinarian. For additional resources, visit www.doctalktv.com or tune in to DocTalk for more discussions on vital topics affecting livestock health and welfare.
Escrito por Kristina Porter, DVM, Kleinsasser-Porter Veterinary Service, Production Animal Consultation
¡Etemporada de partos! Has hecho todo lo posible para prepararte. Las vacas están en buen estado, los corrales de parto están listos. ¡Has estado trabajando duro todo el año para este momento! A medida que la cría toca el suelo, es fácil olvidar los pequeños detalles que preparan a ese bebé para el éxito. Echemos un vistazo a las pequeñas cosas que marcan una gran diferencia no solo el primer día, sino también para la vida de esa cría.
¡El parto es estresante para la mamá y el bebé! Cualquier cosa que podamos hacer para no aumentar ese estrés ayudará al desarrollo del ternero. En los primeros momentos de vida de la cría, el vínculo es esencial. Aretar al ternero está bien, el pesaje y la castración con banda son pasos esenciales en algunas operaciones. Pero la forma en que lo hacemos puede marcar una diferencia real. Retrase todas las intervenciones hasta que la mamá y el bebé hayan tenido la oportunidad de establecer un vínculo. El hecho de que la mamá lama el ternero promueve la circulación en el ternero y puede alentar al ternero a levantarse y moverse.
¿Las vacas tienden a huir cuando areta a su ternero? Si es así, es hora de repensar su método. Hacer aretes a distancia (en lugar de mientras esta arrodillado sobre su ternero) puede ayudar a mamá a mantener la calma. Si tiene que realizar varios procedimientos, una eslinga en la que la madre y el bebé puedan estar nariz con nariz mientras trabaja en el ternero puede ser útil para mantener a la vaca tranquila y a usted seguro.
El ombligo del ternero es una entrada fácil para los patógenos. Las botellas rociadoras de yodo son útiles y tienen beneficios, como no usar un vaso sucio para sumergir los ombligos. Pero el gran inconveniente de una botella rociadora es no obtener una cobertura adecuada del ombligo. Un vaso pequeño y limpio sigue siendo la mejor manera de desinfectar un ombligo. Use un vaso desechable pequeño de tamaño de baño. Ponga un poco de tintura de yodo. Sostenga el vaso hasta el cuerpo del ternero y agítelo. ¡Despues tire el vaso a la basura! El alcohol de la tintura de yodo también ayudará a secar el ombligo. Los vasos desinfectantes para los pezones son útiles, pero son diseñados para mantener los pezones suaves y húmedos. Queremos que el ombligo se seque. Por lo tanto, los líquidos de sumersión para los pezones no son una buena alternativa para la desinfección del ombligo.
Incluso los mejores intentos para desinfectar el ombligo no son rival para un lugar sucio. Un lugar limpio y seco es vital para reducir el riesgo de infecciones del ombligo. Continúe monitoreando a los terneros recién nacidos para detectar infecciones en el ombligo. Si observa inflamación, cualquier olor anormal o el ternero presenta dolor en el área del ombligo, trátelo lo antes posible. Hable con su veterinario sobre las mejores opciones de tratamiento.
Un ternero recién nacido depende de las inmunoglobulinas del calostro para responder a las enfermedades. El calostro es vital para el funcionamiento del sistema inmunitario durante el resto de la vida del ternero. El tiempo importa, la calidad y la cantidad importan. La capacidad de un ternero para absorber calostro comienza a disminuir horas después del nacimiento. Un ternero promedio de raza cárnica debe recibir al menos dos cuartos de galón durante las primeras cuatro horas después del nacimiento y al menos otros dos cuartos más antes de cumplir las 12 horas después del nacimiento. A las 12 horas, la capacidad del ternero para absorber el calostro casi ha desaparecido. Un ternero grande, como un Holstein, necesitará más.
Si una vaca no puede proporcionar calostro a su ternero, el calostro de una vaca mayor de su hato es una excelente opción. Si necesita usar una mezcla en polvo, recuerde que no todos los productos de calostro son iguales. Asegúrese de comprar un reemplazo, no un suplemento. Su veterinario puede ayudarle a seleccionar el mejor producto.
¡Estamos empezando a ver otros beneficios emocionantes del calostro! Ha sido un punto de inflexión en el tratamiento de diarrea para mi práctica. Muchas causas de diarrea no son bacterianas, por lo que los antibióticos no ayudarán. Cuando se usan, nos quedamos con los efectos secundarios de los antibióticos, como matar las bacterias esenciales en el intestino. Estamos
empezando a aprender que el calostro puede ayudar en el tratamiento de la diarrea si se administra en una etapa temprana de la enfermedad y reducir la necesidad de antibióticos. Tenemos mucho que aprender sobre cómo y por qué el calostro ayuda. Podría ser las inmunoglobinas que protegen contra la enfermedad, el alto contenido de grasa o los altos niveles de vitaminas y minerales. Cualquiera que sea la causa, parece que el calostro tiene un efecto calmante sobre los intestinos inflamados. Estén atentos a medida que aprendamos más en los próximos años. Por ahora, ¡no hay inconvenientes en probarlo! No necesita los reemplazos de mayor precio. Puede usar los suplementos de calostro para esto. Úselo temprano y más de una vez. Es posible que evite que tenga un problema grave de diarrea este año. Recuerde, la deshidratación mata a los terneros. El abordar la deshidratación podría ser lo más poderoso que puede
hacer. Verifique las instrucciones de los electrolitos y mézclelos en consecuencia. Algunos se pueden mezclar con sustituto de leche, pero la mayoría no. La temporada de parto puede ser la época más gratificante del año y la más desalentadora. Esté preparado, pero sea flexible. Recuerde, somos llamados a hacer lo mejor que podamos, y no siempre sale como queremos. Por favor, cuídese usted y también a su equipo. Hacemos listas de verificación para las necesidades de los terneros recién nacidos. No se olvide de las necesidades de los de dos piernas que forman parte de la ecuación. ¡No se puede vivir solo de café! El descanso y el alimento adecuado son igual de importantes para que comience la temporada de partos con el pie derecho. Le deseo a usted y a sus terneros un fantástico comienzo de un año exitoso.
La Dra. Kristina Porter es una veterinaria de Huron, Dakota del Sur. La Dra. Porter recibió su licenciatura en Zootecnia de la Universidad Estatal de Kansas en 2008 y su Doctorado en Medicina Veterinaria (DVM, por sus siglas en ingles) de la Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria de la Universidad Estatal de Kansas en el 2010. La Dra. Porter y su esposo, también veterinario, ejercen en el este de Dakota del Sur mientras crían a sus hijas y trabajan en el rancho familiar. La Dra. Porter ha pasado la mayor parte de su carrera concentrándose en la reproducción para maximizar el rendimiento y la rentabilidad de sus clientes, así como en el uso del manejo de animales para crear el animal más saludable y eficiente posible.
Escrito por Kip Lukasiewicz, DVM, Production Animal Consultation
El invierno se acerca rápidamente y, por lo general, en nuestra industria olvidamos rápidamente los eventos climáticos severos que nos retrasaron los últimos dos años. Y, por supuesto, nadie quiere recordar el ciclón bomba del 2019. Sin embargo, para muchos productores este año, las condiciones de nuestros corrales de invierno fueron malas y el ganado nunca compensó completamente el impacto del invierno en términos de peso en canal o ganancia en pie, y en muchos casos retrasó nuestro ganado de manera significativa y financiera. Aquellos productores que fueron más progresivos en las condiciones de sus corrales tuvieron un gran éxito en la salud y el rendimiento de su ganado. Este artículo cubrirá nuestras predicciones climáticas para el invierno 2024-2025 y también discutirá las opciones disponibles. La planificación lo es todo, garantizar que tengamos los suministros, el equipo y la mano de obra necesaria para completar el plan para esos períodos en los que la Madre Naturaleza nos golpea con un clima invernal severo.
El pronóstico invernal del Almanaque del Granjero para el 2024-2025 anticipa que Nebraska, Kansas, Iowa y Colorado pueden experimentar un "torbellino húmedo" de clima, influenciado por un ciclo de El Niño. A continuación, se muestra un resumen región por región:
1. Se pronostica que Nebraska y Iowa (parte de la región "Heartland") tendrán un invierno más cálido de lo habitual, con las temperaturas más frías entre finales de enero y febrero. Es probable que las nevadas y las precipitaciones estén por debajo de lo normal, y las nevadas más significativas se esperan hacia finales de enero.1,2
2. Se espera que Kansas siga tendencias similares, con temperaturas más cálidas que el promedio, pero menos precipitaciones y nieve en comparación con los inviernos típicos. Las nevadas más intensas probablemente ocurrirán a finales de enero.2
3. Colorado (principalmente en las Montañas Rocosas) puede experimentar una mezcla de clima. Mientras que algunas partes serán más cálidas, otras podrían ver una buena cantidad de nieve debido al impacto de El Niño, especialmente en las montañas. Las precipitaciones pueden ser más comunes en las elevaciones más altas, con mayores posibilidades de tormentas de nieve.1
El pronóstico de este invierno sugiere menos olas de frío prolongadas, pero olas de frío y precipitaciones esporádicas a través de estos estados. Espere una temporada más suave y seca con ráfagas de clima invernal de vez en cuando.
Gestion de la Superficie de Corrales
Nos han enseñado que la cama de rastrojo de maíz es cara y que nunca funciona porque se convierte rápidamente en estiércol o desecho cuando se usa. Bueno, voy a ser brusco y probablemente abrasivo para la mayoría, pero la razón por la que esto ocurre es que estamos tratando de colocar la cama sobre una superficie húmeda y descuidada sin preparación de la superficie o sin un plan a largo plazo de cómo vamos a usar rastrojo de maíz de manera efectiva. Para aquellos de nosotros que no hemos tenido tanto éxito como queremos y valoramos la comodidad de nuestro ganado, entrar al invierno con un plan de empaque de cama es esencial.
Gestion de Empaque de Cama
La creación de un empaque de cama eficaz para el ganado con rastrojo de maíz implica la colocación de capas y el manejo de la cama para mantenerla seca y
aislada. Esta práctica proporciona calor y comodidad a los animales durante el invierno mientras se manejan las condiciones de la superficie. Aquí hay una guía paso a paso para construir un empaque de cama adecuado con rastrojo de maíz:
1. Selección y Preparación del Sitio
• Elija un área bien drenada y ligeramente elevada para evitar la acumulación de agua.
• Asegure el drenaje adecuado nivelando el área y, si es posible, colocando una ligera pendiente para la evacuación del agua.
• Comience con una capa base sólida para absorber la humedad, que puede incluir cama usada, arena o grava para mejorar el drenaje.
• Lo mejor es comenzar a construir el empaque de cama sobre una superficie seca a mediados o finales de no noviembre y continuar la práctica durante los próximos cuatro o cinco meses.
2. Proceso de Capas de Cama
• Primera Capa: Extienda una capa gruesa (de seis a ocho pulgadas) de rastrojo de maíz sobre el suelo preparado. El rastrojo de maíz picado o triturado funciona mejor porque crea una capa más densa y absorbente.
• Asegúrese de proporcionar un área de 20 pies cuadrados por animal para que pueda acostarse.
• Capas Continuas: Agregue rastrojo de maíz fresco cada varios días, o a medida que se comprima, humedezca o ensucie. Esta capa continua ayudará a mantener la insolación y evitará una superficie mojada, lo que puede conducir a la acumulación de lodo y amoníaco.
• Trate de mantener la cama al menos 12 pulgadas de profundidad para proporcionar la calidez y la comodidad adecuadas.
3. Manejo Diario
• Agregue regularmente capas nuevas en la parte superior a medida que el rastrojo se descompone. Para una absorción efectiva de la humedad, monitore la condición de la cama y agregue rastrojo según sea necesario, especialmente después del clima húmedo.
• Verifique si hay signos de acumulación de amoníaco (como olor) y, si está presente, aumente la capa de cama o proporcione una mejor ventilación.
• Mantenga el empaque de cama hasta la primavera manteniendo la capa superior seca, lo que ayuda a controlar bacteria y reduce el olor.
4. Compactación y aireación
• El rastrojo de maíz tiende a compactarse con el tiempo bajo el peso del ganado. Revolver o agregar más cama periódicamente ayuda a
mantener la insolación y el flujo de aire dentro del empaque de la cama.
• Evite la compactación excesiva, ya que esto puede reducir la absorbencia y resultar en un ambiente más frío y menos cómodo.
5. Manejo de Residuos y Limpieza
• Al final del invierno, limpie completamente el empaque de cama y extiéndalo como estiércol en los campos. El rastrojo de maíz se descompone bien y añade materia orgánica al suelo, proporcionando un uso sustentable de la cama.
El Dr. Dan Thomson y el Dr. Erik Lowe han trabajado con operaciones de corrales de engorda en Iowa que están trabajando para perfeccionar esto y tuvieron un gran éxito esta última temporada de invierno. Proporcionaron la siguiente información y el Dr. Erik acuñó el término "Inteligencia de Cama" (BI, por sus siglas en ingles) para comprender y mejorar lo que ya sabemos.
1. Suponiendo cinco meses de cama:
• Se necesitan 40 pacas redondas por corral de 100 cabezas.
• Se necesitan dos pacas redondas por semana por cada 100 cabezas y, a veces, una o dos más dependiendo de la humedad.
• Es común que sea de seis a ocho pacas redondas por semana en corrales de tierra típicos (de 150 a 200 cabezas) durante el pico de frío invernal y lodo primaveral.
• Esto proporcionará un área de diez pies cuadrados por cabeza y sugiero duplicar esto, ya que queremos que todo el ganado se acueste a la vez si es necesario.
• Calcule = media a 1 paca redonda por cabeza de capacidad para un período tipico de cama.
2. Asegúrese de mantener la superficie del corral alrededor de la cama. Nuestro mejor enfoque para la nieve es apilarla y eliminarla. Si no podemos lograr esto, debemos amontonarla en un área que, una vez que se derrita, el agua se drene lejos de las áreas de comedero, bebedero y camas.
En resumen, nuestra industria necesita adoptar métodos que proporcionen al ganado un entorno cómodo para la salud y el crecimiento sustentable de los animales, incluso en las condiciones más duras. Esperar para implementar este procedimiento solo conducirá al fracaso.
1. https://www.bobvila.com/interior/farmers-almanac-winter-forecast-2024/
2. https://www.farmersalmanac.com/
El Dr. Kip Lukasiewicz recibió su Doctorado en Medicina Veterinaria en 1999 de la Universidad Estatal de Kansas. Es el propietario de Sandhills Cattle Consultants, Inc. y socio de Production Animal Consultation, LLC. El enfoque primario del Dr. Kip es la consultoría de operaciones de corrales de engorda, el manejo de ganado y el diseño de instalaciones. El Dr. Kip se formó con el difunto Bud Williams y ha trabajado y capacitado extensamente con el Dr. Tom Noffsinger utilizando las ideas de Bud sobre el manejo y el cuidado de ganado de bajo estrés. El Dr. Kip junto con el Dr. Tom capacitan y trabajan con más del 20% de la industria de ganado en alimentación en los EE. UU. y también viaja a Canadá para capacitar a clientes de operaciones de corrales de engorda sobre el cuidado y el manejo de ganado de bajo estrés. El Dr. Kip reside en Farwell, Nebraska, con su esposa, tienen una hija y un hijo. Es miembro activo de la Academy of Veterinary Consultants, Nebraska Veterinary Medical Association y American Association of Bovine Practitioners.
Tulathromycin options outnumber the stars,
But choosing doesn’t have to be rocket science.
Looking for out of this world support, in addition to an all-star product line?
On top of the benefits of tulathromycin, VACASAN® (tulathromycin injection) is paired with Huvepharma’s expert support. We work hard to bring you quality products backed by capable professionals who are ready to assist with technical or sales questions.
When discussing tulathromycin options with your herd’s veterinarian, choose VACASAN® .
By Doug Ford, DVM, Production Animal Consultation, & Greg Quakenbush, DVM, Geissler Corp.
2Corinthians 10:3-5 advises that though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh. These verses emphasize that the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but divinely powerful for the destruction of fortresses and strongholds. These spiritual weapons of warfare are specific and lethal for destroying speculations and every lofty thing raised up against the knowledge of God. They outfit us to take every thought captive to the obedience of Christ.
My simple logic would imply that if there are weapons involved there must be a battle, and that battle is not earthly. Battles are commonplace every day here on earth as we attend the prestigious school of higher education known as life. Continually daunting and sometimes overwhelming battles that occur daily with no warning. Recently, one of my daughters phoned me about a very frustrating situation she was experiencing. She described how rainwater had run into the window well on the south side of her house, flooding the basement. The first time it happened she thought, “Just one of those things,” dealt with the situation and moved on. Unfortunately, it would happen again. On further investigation, she noticed that the neighbor to the south had altered the gutter down spout on the north side of their house. This alteration resulted in a direct path for water from the roof to funnel into the window well and subsequently into the basement every time it rained. When she approached the neighbors about the situation, they basically told her to mind her own business. Being a problem solver, she took matters into her own hands making a few adjustments to her property in an attempt to divert the water in a different direction. All on her dime and her time. After all, sometimes we need to turn the other cheek. The modifications were only palliative and did not totally fix the problem. To make matters worse, the neighbors were making plans for a total remodel with concrete sidewalks, a new patio, and driveway which would only accentuate the situation. Concerned, our daughter made another attempt to reason with the neighbors to design a system that would be beneficial to all parties. She suggested a large drainpipe under the concrete patio to direct the water to the west or a curb to contain the water on their property. Again, she was told to mind her own business. In her distress and frustration, she reached out to the City Planning, Permit, and Zoning officials. They empathetically shared her concerns about having a permanent swimming pool in her basement but informed her there was not a lot they could do.
You can only imagine her response to the city officials. Begrudgingly she remained composed, not wanting to burn any bridges, but was very direct about her frustration and apprehension. When we spoke that evening, she shared that the project had moved forward with a massive menagerie of concrete forms, rebar, and mesh wire. In her uncertainty, she was convinced that the battle had been lost. She felt tormented, helpless, betrayed, and conflicted. Her Joy and peace were being robbed by the situation. I totally understood her despair. In my infinite wisdom (HA!), I assured her that adversity is only a page, not the entire book, and this situation was
Satan’s way of derailing her focus and peace. I reminded her that her worth is not determined by who she is or the situation, but rather by whose she is. We discussed faith, obedience, discipline, gratitude, forgiveness, and grace. Bottom line, we are all continually fighting a battle. A battle that has already been fought and won. Won on a cross 2000 years ago. Easy to say when the cement trucks are lined up in the street. The next morning when the dust somewhat settled, she called with an upbeat tone and renewed bounce in her step. “Guess what, Dad, they took my suggestion and poured a curb on the entire edge of the property. I think I was fighting that battle that had already been won.” Praise the Lord.
The story doesn’t end here. As it turns out, I am great at giving advice, but not always the best at receiving. In my myopia and blurred vision, I realized I was currently experiencing a series of situations that were very real, haunting, and destroying my joy and focus. Little did I realize that the lesson in this story would be for me.
In that key, “I’m sometimes a bonehead” revelation moment, I was able to comprehend that I am great at seeing how it should work for others but often miss the opportunities in my own life. The battle of wills. My will versus His will. That abiding tug of war we all experience daily. In obedience and faith, it is one thing to believe that the war has already been won, another to receive and practice it.
Heavenly Father, thank you for your understanding, patience, and grace. Thank you for revelation knowledge through your Holy Spirit. Thank you that the battle has already been won. Thank you, Jesus. Keep teaching me.
It may be a surprise to many that “warfare” is a major theme of the Bible. The reality of warfare gets somewhat hidden and concealed underneath the peace, love, Easter Bunny, and Santa Claus memes, which is frequently the only aspect of Christianity that our culture will accept. When true followers of Christ stand against the lies, selfishness, immorality and human reasoning of the culture, the battlelines become quickly drawn and the conflict begins. It may seem too simple to state, but the root of this warfare here on earth is between “good and evil” (God and Satan).
Consider your life during any given day or week. What are the chances that there were some conflicts or disputes? It would be hard to imagine that you scored a net zero in this category especially if you have kids, a spouse, or a job. These conflicts and disputes confirm what the Bible has predicted and addressed previously regarding trials and tribulations:
John 16:33 (ESV) "I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.”
Romans 5:3-4 (NLT) We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they help us develop endurance. And endurance develops strength of character, and character strengthens our confident hope of salvation.
The above examples of conflict, trials, tribulations, etc., are outcomes of what the Bible describes as “Spiritual Warfare”. All warfare involves the spiritual realm which had its beginning in the book of Genesis when Satan tempted Adam and Eve. This historic event is recorded in Genesis 3 where Adam and Eve chose to believe Satan’s lie and aligned with Satan against the provision, wisdom and goodness of God. This episode is known as the “fall of man”. As a result of choosing Satan over God, Adam and Eve lost not only their immortal lives within paradise, but also the intimate and personal relationship they previously enjoyed with God. As a result of the fall, “Sin” entered and officially took over mankind. The resulting Spiritual Warfare (God vs. Satan, good vs. evil) was born and will continue its destruction unabated until Satan and his fallen angels are destroyed... forever. There is however a basic template that serves to give clarity to the initial conflict and helps us understand why the battle continues unabated today. The template is found in Genesis 3, where several significant events take place.
1. Satan challenged what God had instructed Adam & Eve. Genesis 3:1 “Did God really say... “
2. Eve repeated what she thought God had stated, but got it wrong...
3. Satan now accuses God of lying about the consequences and tells Eve, “ You surely will not die.”
4. Satan tempted Eve further, “in the day you eat from it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil.”
This assault on Truth, absolute Truth, is an attack on God himself. Truth is the essence of God’s character. Satan on the other hand is described by Jesus in John 8:44 as ”a murderer from the beginning, and does not stand in the truth because there is no truth in him. Whenever he speaks a lie, he speaks from his own nature, for he is a liar and the father of lies
John 14:6 “I am the way, the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father but through me.”
John 8:32 (NLT) “And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”
Spiritual warfare, while taking place on physical earth, involves the unseen realm of Satan and his demons. Many readers may scoff at this reality, but it begs the question, is evil tangible? Is it real? What do you believe? The Bible certainly has no qualms about this supernatural conflict which daily involves mankind and the visible world.
Ephesians 6:10-12 Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of His might. Put on the full armor of God, so that you will be able to stand firm against the schemes of the devil. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places.
2 Corinthians 10:3-5 “For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh, for the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh, but divinely powerful for the destruction of fortresses. We are destroying arguments and all arrogance raised against the knowledge of God...”
Thankfully in God’s wisdom He has given us strategic weapons to counter the enemy. The imagery for this cloak of protective gear uses a Roman centurion’s battle armor. Here is a brief synopsis regarding the pieces of armor. Keep in mind that the Lord is the source of this armor and it must be worn it at all times.
Ephesians 6:13-18 Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm. Stand therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and, as shoes for your feet, having put on the readiness given by the gospel of peace. In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one; and take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God, praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication.
Centurion's Armor
Belt
Breast
Foundational piece, held clothing and weapons in place
Protected the heart, lungs, vital organs
Historically with hob nails, solid sure footing
To protect against arrows, javelins, swords, of the enemy
To protect the head (mind, etc.)
Sword
God's Armor
Offensive weapon Truth
Note that in the listing of armor, God has provided for only one offensive weapon, His word, the Bible. If your life required you to be proficient with this one specific weapon, what would be your chances of survival? Ironically, many reading this are proponents of “concealed carry” for protection. However, our spiritual offensive weapon (the Bible) is also often concealed. So concealed
that we may not be sure where exactly it is in the house or when we last opened its pages. When trouble (evil) comes knocking, will you be prepared?
Remember, the battle belongs to the Lord. All He has required of us is to know and love Truth, wear the armor He has provided, pray at all times, and Stand Firm.
Doug Ford, DVM is the owner of Beaver Creek Veterinary Clinic in Brush, Colorado. Doug earned his DVM degree from Colorado State University. Brush, Colorado has been his home since graduating from Colorado State. Doug’s practice has been remarkably diverse over 40 years of veterinary medicine. Dogs, cats, cow-calf, feedlot, two sale barns, and spaying thousands of heifers for grass. The last 20 years of practice has been 50% large western dairies and 50% beef cattle (spaying, cow-calf, and feedlots). In 2005, Doug was given the privilege to become one of the six founding members of PAC. Doug and his wife Jan ranch in their “spare” time. They are also heavily involved in a wetlands development project on the South Platte River near Snyder, Colorado. Doug’s dad used to say, “Get your grades up. Do you want to grow up to be a ditch digger?” Doug had no idea how much fun it would be to play in the dirt with dozers and track hoes. He feels truly blessed and believes that the best days are yet to come.
Greg Quakenbush, DVM is a 1978 graduate of Colorado State University and spent 16 years in large animal practice in Porterville, California. For 19 years, Dr. Q worked for Zoetis (Pfizer) and was Director of the US Cattle Technical Services team. Since 2013, Dr. Q has worked with the Geissler Corporation assisting in the development of new veterinary diagnostic technologies. Dr. Q enjoys Bible study, shooting sports, fly-fishing, and being a part-time farmer growing citrus and nuts in the central valley of California.
This is comically simple and very good. You will not have to wash many dishes because the prep is so easy. Usually beef stew recipes call for browning the beef before adding it to the stew pot. That adds flavor but makes a mess. Thanks to the onion soup and tomato paste, this tastes just as good without browning. The lovely and gracious Pete’s Mate gives this recipe two thumbs up!
• 2 (10.5 oz) cans condensed French onion soup
• 1 cup water
• 1/4 cup tomato paste
• 2 1/2 T instant tapioca
• 1 t dried thyme
• 1 1/2 pounds small Yukon Gold potatoes (or cut into 1 inch pieces)
• 1/2 pound baby carrots or carrot chunks
• 3 pounds stew meat, trimmed and cut into 1 1/2 inch pieces
• 2 cups frozen peas
• Whisk soup, water, tomato paste, tapioca and thyme together in a slow cooker; stir in potatoes and carrots. Season beef with salt and pepper and stir into slow cooker. Cover and cook 8-10 hours on low or 6-7 hours on high.
• Using large spoon, skim excess fat from surface of stew. Stir in peas and let sit until heated through, about 5 minutes. Feel free to use frozen green beans in addition to, or instead of, the peas. Corn would be OK, too. For the batch in the photo, we used roasted carrots instead of fresh and added them a little later. That added some great flavor.
• Adjust stew consistency with extra hot broth as needed. Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve. Serve with some good crusty bread and soft butter.
Pete Anderson spends most of his time assisting cattle feeders in his work for Midwest PMS. When he gets a little free time, he likes to cook beef or the occassional lesser species for friends and family. Pete and his wife, Denise, live in Loveland, Colorado. They have three carnivorous kids that are all grown. For more recipes and some fun, check out petesmeats.com
If you have a recipe that you would like to feature in The Pot Roast section of Protein Producers, email us a protein.producers@pacdvms.com
Solicitors should never ask a granny a question if they aren’t prepared for the answer.
In a trial recently, a small-time prosecuting solicitor called his first witness, a grandmotherly, elderly woman to the stand. He approached her and asked, “Mrs. Murphy, do you know me?”
She responded, “Yes, I do know you, Mr. Burke. I’ve known you since you were a boy, and frankly, you’ve been a big disappointment to me. You lie, you cheat on your wife, you manipulate people and talk about them behind their backs. You think you’re a big lad when you haven’t the brains to realize you’ll never amount to anything more than a two-bit pen pusher. Yes, I know you.”
The solicitor was stunned. Not knowing what else to do, he pointed across the room and asked, “Mrs. Murphy, do you know the defense lawyer?”
She again replied, “Why yes, I do. I’ve known Mr. Cummins since he was a youngster, too. He’s lazy, snobby and has a drinking problem. He can’t build a normal relationship with anyone, and his law practice is one of the worst in the entire country. Not to mention he cheated on his wife with three different women. One of them was your wife. Yes, I know him.”
The defense lawyer nearly died.
The judge asked both counselors to approach the bench and, in a very quiet voice, said, “If either of you idiots ask her if she knows me, I’ll send you both to prison for ten years each!”
Keep on smiling!
Warm Regards,
Jane Sullivan
