Everyone that is calving right now is enduring crazy swings in weather. From 50 degrees and mud to -25 windchill and ice, we’ve had it all so far this calving season.
Harvey is Paula Peterson’s new bottle calf.
With calving season getting started across the region, it is important to remember just how critical colostrum is to a newborn calf. This calf on a ranch in the Big Hole Valley of Montana is certainly enjoying his mother’s first milk. Photo by Cali Malkovich.
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The level of protection a calf receives from colostrum directly relates to the amount of antibody in the colostrum, the amount and quality of colostrum fed, and the ability of the calf’s gut to absorb antibodies.
Esophageal feeders are designed to ensure adequate volumes of colostrum are delivered to calves within a recommended time frame.
Lainie Kringen-Scholtz, DVM, is veterinarian and owner of True North Veterinary Health in Wentworth, S.D. Reach her at truenorthveterinaryhealth@gmail.com or PO Box 117, Wentworth, SD 57075.





