For many years, the calf hutch has been considered the “gold” standard. Is it time to reevaluate this standard? Let’s consider the benefits and challenges of the calf hutch system compared to other alternatives.

Not all milk replacers are the same. Sure, they differ by protein source, level of protein/fat and any medications or additives included. But milk replacers also differ on how well they support gut health and protect overall calf health. While you probably have a favorite milk replacer, new research shows that adding IgY, the avian equivalent of IgG (immunoglobulin G found in colostrum), can make a good milk replacer even better.

I grew up on an 80-cow Holstein dairy family farm cropping corn, alfalfa, soybeans and wheat in eastern Iowa. I am putting the animal science (2005) and DVM (2009) degrees I earned at Iowa State to good use by focusing on the basics of cattle husbandry.

Using beef semen to cross with Holsteins, Jerseys and other dairy breeds has helped change the value of each calf. Dairy producers are looking for ways to maximize this strategy and reap the financial benefits. Here are four tips to help unlock the potential of beef-on-dairy calves and secure maximum results.

Discussing cow comfort, genetics, succession planning and social media presence, brother and sister Tyler and Mackenzie Reynolds join host Matti McBride on this episode of the Progressive Dairy Podcast. Learn how a new barn has resulted in increased production, how three siblings returned to the western New York dairy, the impact genetics has had on Reyncrest Farm’s herd and the opportunities that come with showcasing dairy farming on social media.

Supplementing calves with colostrum after the first day of life can reduce the duration of diarrhea and possibly improve survival rates during high disease pressures. This article details the benefits of colostrum for older calves and how it can be integrated into calf management plans.

Moving calves from the hutches to group pens isn’t just stressful for the calves. Workers know that when a new group of calves moves into the group pen, the calves have a much greater risk of bovine respiratory disease (BRD) or pneumonia.