Agricultural News
Picking Teams - How Producers Can Make the Right Decisions With the Right People
Tue, 02 Aug 2016 16:02:36 CDT
The most successful cow-calf operators rely on their team to help them make well rounded decisions, says Dr. Mark Hilton, a retired Purdue veterinary professor now consulting with Elanco Animal Health. The team he refers to consists of specialists in all areas that could potentially help a producer raise top-performing calves.
"When I talk to producers I tell them, get with a nutritionist, get with your veterinarian," Hilton said. "Have a nutrition plan, have a health plan. I've even lined people up with marketing folks to help sell those calves at a better price."
According to Hilton, there is a wealth of knowledge out there about raising healthy, productive cattle and it is easier now than ever to connect with specialists in each field. He believes producers should lean on their team to help make well-informed decisions for the wellbeing of their individual herds. When is the best time to start consulting your team? Hilton says before the calf is even born.
"The nutrition of the dam when that calf is in utero starts the clock," Hilton said.
The most important moment for a calf's future is right after it's born. It needs to get a full belly of colostrum as quickly as possible. Using a team from the very beginning will ensures both the cow and calf are healthy and strong enough to make this happen.
Watch the full interview with Dr. Mark Hilton by clicking the PLAY BOX below.
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