DocTalk

Bull Development with Dr. Dave Rethorst

In this episode of "DocTalk" with Dr. Dan Thomson features a deep dive into the often overlooked yet crucial aspect of ranching: the bulls. Dr. Dave Rethorst, a seasoned veterinarian and expert in cow-calf operations, joins Dr. Thomson to shed light on the essential steps in managing and preparing bulls for breeding season.

Dr. Rethorst emphasizes the importance of not neglecting the "Herd Bull Battery," highlighting the need for ongoing care and attention throughout the year. He stresses that bulls are athletes and must be kept in optimal shape to perform their duties effectively.

The episode covers various aspects of bull management, including nutrition, health, and breeding soundness exams (BSE). Dr. Rethorst provides valuable insights into conducting thorough BSEs, ensuring that bulls are physically capable of breeding and producing viable semen.

Furthermore, the discussion touches on common issues observed in bulls, particularly in the aftermath of harsh weather conditions like cold snaps. Dr. Rethorst shares his experiences with frostbite and other challenges faced by bulls, underlining the importance of proactive testing and management practices.

As the episode progresses, practical advice is offered on preparing bulls for breeding season, including vaccination protocols, parasite control, and trichomoniasis testing. Dr. Rethorst advocates for treating bulls with the same level of care as replacement heifers, emphasizing the significance of consistent and comprehensive management strategies.

In summary, this episode of "DocTalk" serves as a comprehensive guide for ranchers, providing essential information on maintaining the health and performance of their bull herds. Dr. Rethorst's expertise and Dr. Thomson's insightful commentary make it a must-watch for anyone involved in cattle breeding and management.

Heifer Development with Dr. Dave Rethorst

"DocTalk" is back with Dr. Dan Thomson, joined by his esteemed colleague, Dr. Dave Rethorst, for an insightful discussion tailored specifically for ranchers. In this episode, the focus is on the crucial topic of developing heifers.

Dr. Thomson kicks off the show with a warm welcome, setting the stage for an engaging conversation. Dr. Rethorst, a seasoned veterinarian deeply entrenched in bovine medicine and beef cattle production, brings his wealth of experience to the table.

The discussion begins with the selection process for heifers, emphasizing the importance of choosing those born in the first 21 to 30 days of the calving season. Dr. Rethorst highlights the advantage of early-born heifers in reaching breeding weight sooner, laying the groundwork for successful reproduction.

Moving forward, the conversation delves into the strategy of exposing a larger number of heifers than needed for breeding, allowing for a rigorous selection process to identify the most fertile candidates. Dr. Rethorst emphasizes the significance of adapting to circumstances, such as droughts and wildfires, which necessitate the need for replacement heifers.

Transitioning to health considerations, Dr. Rethorst outlines a comprehensive vaccination protocol, stressing the importance of modified live vaccines for preventing reproductive disorders. He also underscores the significance of deworming and parasite control, tailored to individual operation requirements.

Nutrition emerges as a pivotal factor in heifer development, with Dr. Rethorst advocating for a balanced approach to achieve optimal body condition scores without excess fat. He emphasizes the role of vitamins and minerals, particularly vitamin A and key trace minerals, in supporting reproductive health.

In the final segment, the focus shifts to breeding strategies, ranging from synchronization programs to natural service. Dr. Rethorst discusses innovative approaches like semi-synchronization using LUTALYSE, offering practical insights for enhancing breeding efficiency.

Throughout the episode, Dr. Thomson and Dr. Rethorst stress the importance of collaboration with local veterinarians and adherence to best practices in heifer development. With their combined expertise and dedication to the well-being of cattle, they provide invaluable guidance to ranchers navigating the complexities of heifer management.

Pinkeye with Dr. Brent Meyer

"Doc Talk" is back with a focus on pink eye, a common and costly issue in the beef industry. Dr. Brent Meyer, a seasoned veterinarian and national expert in beef cattle medicine, joins the show to shed light on this pervasive problem. Pink eye, caused by various organisms including Moraxella bovis and Moraxella bovoculi, results in significant losses for the industry, both in terms of performance and market value.

Dr. Meyer emphasizes the importance of understanding the biology of pink eye and its transmission dynamics. Vaccination plays a pivotal role in prevention, but timing is critical to ensure optimal immune response. With vaccines primarily targeting Moraxella bovis, producers must adhere to strict timelines to bolster immunity before the peak of fly season.

Treatment options, including antimicrobial agents like tetracyclines and Tobramycin, are discussed alongside practical approaches such as eye patching and shading to aid recovery. Early intervention is key, as delayed treatment can lead to severe complications and widespread outbreaks within herds.

Prevention strategies extend beyond vaccination and treatment. Controlling fly populations, managing pasture conditions to minimize corneal damage, and addressing internal parasite burdens are essential components of a comprehensive approach to pink eye management.

Dr. Meyer underscores the importance of environmental factors, such as UV exposure, pollen, and tail flicking by cows, in exacerbating pink eye risk. By implementing proactive measures, producers can mitigate the impact of this costly disease and safeguard the health and productivity of their cattle.

"Doc Talk" continues to be a valuable resource for ranchers, providing expert insights and practical advice to address pressing issues in beef cattle management.

Pen Managment with Dr. Dan Thomson

Welcome to DocTalk, I'm Dr. Dan Thomson and and I am glad you joined us. Today, I am talking about pen management and cattle comfort. Whether heat stress or cold stress, management of that pen floor is vital to our cattle's health and wellbeing. I'm glad you joined me.

Synchronization of cows and heifers with Dr Sandy Johnson

In this segment, we're in Hays, Kansas, joined by Dr. Sandy Johnson, a Reproductive Physiologist and Extension Beef Specialist from K-State. Our discussion covers the synchronization of cows and heifers, exploring the reasons behind synchronization, various protocols, selecting the appropriate one, and diving into Dr. Johnson's research findings. #cattlehealth #cattlegenetics

Byproducts in Feeds with Dr Galen Erickson

In this episode of DocTalk we visit the Animal Science Complex at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and talk to Dr. Galen Erickson, Ruminant Nutrition Professor and expert feedlot nutritionist. We'll discuss the utilization of distillers in the beef industry and the advantages, considerations, and the future for byproduct feeds. Tune in! #cattlecare #cattlenutrition #cattlehealth Nebraska Animal Science

Coronavirus in catte with Dr.Dustin Loy

In episode 613 of DocTalk we dive into the topic of coronavirus in cattle with Dr. Dustin Loy, who serves as the Director of the Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory and Professor at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Join us as we explore the historical aspects, vaccines, and prevention. #CattleCare #cattlehealth #calvingseason

Getting your cattle started withColostrum with Dr. Nora Schrag

We had the pleasure of talking colostrum with Dr. Nora Schrag on this episode of DocTalk! We discuss how to get it, how to use it, why timing is so important to immune systems, and what’s at risk if calves don’t get adequate amounts. Please join us. #CattleCare #cattlenutrition #calving #calvingseason

Dr Dan Thomson talks about Show Cattle

Join us as we talk about 4-H and FFA beef projects in episode 610. We'll be discussing why those programs are important and touch on nutrition, health & preventative medicine, and lameness. We'll also share tips on acclimating the cattle and preparing students for the sale of their animals. #ShowCattleInsights #LivestockWellness #CattleCare #cattlenutrition

Exploring Bloat with Dr Dan Thomson

We're exploring acidosis and bloat in feeder cattle in the 609th episode of DocTalk. Join us as we delve into the causes, signs, effects, and treatments, providing valuable insights to help prevent these issues, commonly observed in spring. #CattleCare #cattlenutrition