Animal Health
Apps and tests to reduce drench use
When used as part of an integrated parasite management plan, the Smartworm mobile phone app and Fast Worm ID test have been shown to significantly reduce drench use in lambs while retaining productivity. Words Sandra Taylor.
Parasite Management Groups drive changes
In the face of widespread drench resistance, members of Beef + Lamb New Zealand’s Livestock Parasite Management Groups are demonstrating that practical management strategies can significantly reduce their reliance on drenches. Words Sandra Taylor.
Three-year sheep poo study highlights Facial Eczema risks
The country’s largest-ever sheep poo surveillance study created an unprecedented picture of facial eczema risk on New Zealand farms. Words Sandra Taylor.
Fertiliser targets larvae on pasture
A new liquid fertiliser with the ability to deliver a knockout blow to larvae on pasture could soon be the latest tool in the fight against drench resistance on New Zealand farms. Words Rebecca Greaves.
When the safety net comes away
As calves are weaned onto pasture and their meal feeding stops, many forget the coccidiostat in the meal which prevents the parasite disease Coccidiosis also stops. New Zealand owned, Alleva Animal Health’s local innovation takes care of that. Words Sarah Perriam-Lampp.
Body Condition Scoring benefits reproductive performance
Body condition has a significant influence on the reproductive performance of breeding cows. The most value can be generated by reducing the number of low conditioned cows in the herd.
Words Sandra Taylor.
Uncovering the secrets of ‘good mums’
A groundbreaking new sheep trial is set to find the link between lamb survival rates and flock resilience by delving into the crucial role of ewes as ‘good mums’ aiming to significantly impact the country’s sheep sector. Words Sarah Perriam-Lampp.
Farming the Individual Cow, Not the Herd
A Taranaki farmer has embraced all of MSD Animal Health’s SenseHub Dairy Technologies to allow his high-producing cows to continue being milked beyond a typical dry-off date based on accurate, real-time information from wearables, sensors and drafting tools.
Words Sarah Perriam-Lampp, Photos Brad Hanson
How to keep ahead of the drench game
When asking for drench performance information when buying stock or land, it is recommended that farmers get a series of tests carried out over time. Words Sandra Taylor.
Tools to improve lamb survival
There are many factors that impact lamb survival including feed planning to avoid underfeeding, body condition scoring and pregnancy. Words Sandra Taylor.