Pastures are turning green, which means it’s time to work cows and calves. Achieving the best results with vaccines requires using the correct syringes and needles, good management practices and functional facilities. It’s also important to involve your veterinarian.
A vaccine is used to reduce the risk of disease, but giving an injection does not completely prevent disease nor does it mean immediate protection. Most products will shorten the duration and severity of disease, but each immune system reacts differently, says Lindsay Waechter-Mead, DVM and Nebraska Extension beef educator.
“Once an animal receives the product, it may take up to one month for the immune system to create antibodies, which will be activated during the next disease challenge,” she explains. “Therefore, it is best to anticipate when and what diseases are a threat and administer a vaccine protocol one month prior.”
Before running the first cow through the chute, check out these reminders on maintaining equipment, reading the product label, handling vaccines, injection sites and keeping records.
Needle and Syringe Selection
One key to an effective vaccination strategy is selecting the proper needles and syringes.
“When selecting a needle, determine the appropriate route of administration, whether it is subcutaneous (SQ) or intramuscular (IM), from reading the product label,” says Nick Wagner, DVM and professional services veterinarian for Neogen. “Next, determine the weight of the animal, not only for proper dosage, but also for selection of the appropriate needle.”
The route of administration determines the length of the needle, while the size of the animal determines the gauge or diameter of the needle.
The type of syringe and proper care and use matters too.
“If you follow these best practices, along with selecting a needle of the proper gauge and length, you will ensure safe and effective injections,” Wagner says.
Cattle-Handling Tips
Reducing stress during livestock handling can increase productivity, maintain or improve meat quality, reduce sickness and enhance animal welfare.
“While temperament in cattle is moderately heritable, environment does play a role and even cattle that are less docile will benefit from low-stress handling methods,” says Beth McIlquham, University of Wisconsin-Madison regional livestock educator. “A good handler can help reduce fear in an animal, which is the primary driver of negative consequences associated with handling stress.”
These three steps — don’t use an electric prod, understand cattle’s natural instincts and work with cattle’s natural flight zone — can reduce stress during spring processing.
Don’t Forget the Handling Facilities
In addition to handling techniques, a well-maintained pen and chute system can help reduce stress on the cattle and the people. Preventative maintenance is key to keeping facilities in good working order and reduce the likelihood of injuries.
“Before processing, start with basic preventative maintenance, such as making sure the gear teeth are in order, that the movable points are well oiled,” says K-State veterinarian Brian Lubbers.
Take the time to walk through the system just as cattle will on processing day.
“Before you start moving cattle through the system, walk through the alleyways to see if there is anything protruding that will cause the cattle to get injured or balk as they are being pushed ahead,” adds K-State veterinarian Brad White.
If you’re looking to build or revamp working facilities, check out these recommendations as well as a comparison of sweep tubs and bud boxes.
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