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What does the future hold for your calf program? This Progressive Dairy newsletter explores the the changes in calf-raising and what lies ahead. Also, get some tips to keeping the rumen efficient under heat stress, and learn about transitioning to calf pair housing. Lastly, check out our latest Progressive Dairy podcast episode.

grouped calves

What is the ‘next’ for your calf program?

Bob James for Progressive Dairy

I doubt that anyone would deny we are living in an age of disruption. Successful dairy managers do not just “respond” to the current situation; they anticipate the impact of future “disruptors” and are proactive. Strict adherence to what has been successful in the past may mean “failure” in the future.

What are the potential disruptors facing our industry now and in the future? Social factors, labor availability, technology and the environment are likely ones on everyone’s radar. Now, how do these disruptors apply to the calf program on our dairies? The impact of many of these factors is not direct but they are interrelated. How do we anticipate their impact and respond in a positive manner?

Potential disruptors that could affect your calf program

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Weekly Digest: January-April 2021 DMC payments top $446 million

U.S. dairy exports maintain momentum

May Class III-IV milk: Prices higher, spread widens for now

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How do you achieve a 35% RHA Preg Rate?


We have analyzed the latest data to publish our second mySYNCH Fertility Report. The Top 10% of mySYNCH herds by Pregnancy Rate are outpacing the average herds.

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4 nutrition tips to keep rumens running strong during heat stress

feed line Climbing temperatures may be inevitable this time of year, but dairy cow productivity doesn’t have to be a casualty of heat stress. The key to success is minimizing decreases in dry matter intake and keeping rumens – and your herd – operating at peak efficiency.

"Reduced intake can lead to digestive upsets and lowered milk and milk component production,” says Tony Hall, technical services – ruminant, with Lallemand Animal Nutrition. “But investing in heat abatement technology and in your herds’ ration – from dry cows to lactating cows – is crucial. Focusing on quality forages and feedstuffs, plus management changes, will help diminish the negative influence heat stress has on feed intakes, your herd and your bottom line.”

4 ways to overcome heat stress through nutrition

[Podcast] Dr. Larry Corah: The future of beef-on-dairy breeding

In this episode, we visit with Dr. Larry Corah, supply chain consultant for Select Sires, about the future of beef-on-dairy breeding.

Virtus NutritionThis episode is brought to you by Virtus Nutrition:

Listen and subscribe.

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Support mental health and well-being of veterinarians during June Dairy Month

The mental health and well-being of veterinarians has become one of the most important topics to trend in the dairy community in recent months, as veterinarian suicides have been on the rise. Zoetis encourages dairy industry members to help raise awareness and funds to support dairy veterinarians who hold a unique bond and tireless dedication for protecting and caring for cattle. Participants have the opportunity to recognize and nominate dairy veterinarians in their life for a chance to receive a personalized jacket.

For every nomination, Zoetis will donate to Not One More Vet (NOMV) – a nonprofit organization of 32,000 members that helps veterinarian professionals and students struggling with mental health and wellness (or considering suicide) through education, resources and support.

How to nominate your vet

Effectively raising pair-housed calves: Common questions from transitioning farmers

There are many management changes to consider with pair housing. Address some fundamental areas before changing your program.

Learn more.

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The empty sick pen: How Norway has used genetics to nearly eliminate antibiotic treatments

Norwegian cows Bjørg Heringstad for Progressive Dairy

Genetics are an efficient tool to achieve healthier cows and thereby contribute to empty the sick pen. Breeding gives a permanent and cumulative effect; genetic improvement achieved today is of value also for future generations.

Good genes for health may become even more valuable in the future as antibiotic resistance is a serious and growing problem globally, and we may have to change the way we use antibiotics also in livestock production.

Breeding for stronger health traits can help reduce antibiotic use in the herd.

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