Welcome to a very blessed and important episode of the Horns N Hooves Auction Podcast! This week, we are joined by a special guest, Dr. McKenzie Hendrix, a phenomenal and amazing veterinarian, to talk about the crucial basics of mini cattle care, particularly focusing on the first few months of a calf's life. We cover everything from proper colostrum and nutrition to essential vaccination protocols and signs of illness like pinkeye or pneumonia. Dr. McKenzie offers incredible insights to help you manage your herd and tackle those stressful calf-birthing times with confidence.

Key Takeaways: Mini Cattle Health & Management

The importance of the first 24 hours of a calf's life for colostrum intake and immune system set-up is a core theme.

Proper nutrition and having a good veterinarian relationship are non-negotiable for mini cattle health.

Be vigilant for subtle signs of illness or unusual behavior in your animals, especially during stressful times like shipping or calving season.

Prevention is easier and more cost-effective than treatment, so having supplies on hand is crucial.

Episode Highlights

Veterinary Relationship & Protocol: We emphasize building a formal relationship with a cattle vet and having a pre-set vaccination protocol for your herd.

Colostrum & Immunity: Learn the vital role of the mom's first milk (colostrum) in transferring antibodies (IgG) within the first 24 hours and the need for high-quality replacers if the calf does not receive enough.

Disease Prevention: Discussions include managing risks like BVD, pneumonia, and pinkeye, noting how they can spread quickly, especially in new or mixed herds.

Calving & Labor: Guidance on the three stages of labor and when you should be prepared to intervene or call your vet, particularly after two hours of active pushing by the cow.

Nutrition: Essential advice on balancing your herd's diet with forage (hay and grass), avoiding too much grain, and consulting a nutritionist for optimal health.

Timestamps

[0:00] Welcome, Introduction to Dr. McKenzie Hendrix

[0:05] Discussing the importance of a good vet relationship

[0:15] Talking calf care basics: Colostrum and immunity

[0:20] Vaccination and disease prevention protocols

[0:30] Understanding the stages of cow labor and intervention

[0:40] Nutrition, feed, and why forage is primary

[0:50] Signs of a sick calf (fever, nasal discharge, pinkeye)

[1:00] Dealing with BVD and quarantining new animals

[1:05] Wrap-up and thanks to Dr. McKenzie

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Production Credit:

Edited and produced by @the32collective_ / https://www.the32collective.co/