EVENT

Nuisance flies are not just an irritant for cows, they also affect productivity – reducing the intake of grazing cows and therefore reducing yields.

MSD held a workshop on Tim & Doreen Corridan’s farm where Jamie Robertson delved into the issue of calf housing ventilation and animal health.

A Wexford farmer lost 29 out of 40 suckler calves to BVD after buying in a PI heifer. He was forced to buy in a further 28 weanlings the following Autumn.

Farmer Brian O’Keeffe from county Cork watched his herd size double in the past few years after an extreme scour outbreak. He now vows to vaccinate yearly.

Pneumonia is the most common cause of mortality in all ages of cattle except young calves. The best plan that can be in place is prevention.

MSD attended the Royal Ulster Winter Fair to emphasize the message that prevention is key. With issues such as milk price on the agenda, it was a can’t miss.