What is it? Composting is the process of recycling organic matter into a usable product that can return nutrients to the environment. The composting process involves microorganisms breaking down the material and consuming oxygen, which creates water vapour, carbon dioxide, and heat [1]. This heat, which can cause the compost to reach temperatures of over […]
What is it? The Bacteriophage. Video produced by Kurzgesagt – In a nutshell and created with scientific advice and editing by James Gurney. Bacteriophages, or phages, are viruses that infect bacteria [1]. Phages are smaller and more abundant than bacteria and can be found all around the globe. Similar to viruses, phages are species-specific and
What is it? Gut health refers to the health of one’s digestive system, as well as the ability to properly digest food, absorb nutrients, and excrete waste. Cattle are ruminants and have a four-chambered stomach [1]: Rumen: contains a large community of microbes that help aid in digestion and fermentation processes, Reticulum: this is where
What is it? Oregano is a herb, and its oils have broad-spectrum antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties [1], [2]. These properties can be attributed to the carvacrol found within oregano, which also has uses in the food and cosmetic industries. Supplementing feed with oregano has been shown to improve growth performance and feed efficiency, and
What is it? Like all animals, cattle require a proper balance of macronutrients (i.e., protein, carbohydrates, and fats), as well as micronutrients including vitamins and minerals. Nutritionists are often involved in the feed management of an operation, to ensure the proper nutrients are supplemented with the feed. This supplementation will be different at every farm
What is it? Colostrum is the first milk provided by the dam (mother cow). It contains special antibodies which help the calves develop a strong immune system, along with proteins and fats to provide the calves with energy and nutrients. Unlike other mammals, calves do not receive antibodies from the cow’s placenta during pregnancy, and
Delivery Methods Traditional vaccine delivery is by means of a needle and syringe, administered by hand, usually into a large muscle group. Alternate delivery methods have been developed to reduce the labor required, increase the efficiency and accuracy of dosing each animal, and explore different methods of introducing antigens into the body. Timing Because it
Challenges Vaccines may have limited efficacy, limited duration of immunity, and potentially severe side effects [1]. Field strains of pathogens evolve quickly and may not be matched by the vaccine strain, resulting in limited efficacy [1]. Some vaccines are not effective on the field strains present in Canadian herds. There is limited commercial interest in
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What is it? Preconditioning is a management practice that provides a significant health advantage to young calves. Definitions vary, but it usually includes: Keeping the calves for a minimum of 45 days after they’ve been weaned. Ensuring the calves are “bunk broke”, or used to eating food out of a bunk, before leaving the ranch.
What is it? Virtual auctions are services that connect buyers and sellers through the internet to facilitate the direct sale of goods – in this case, livestock. Like traditional auctions, multiple bidders can submit bids on livestock over a set time period. Virtual auctions may be performed live or may take place over several days.
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