Performing breeding soundness evaluations on herd bulls is a sound investment for beef cow-calf operations. A bull breeding soundness evaluation (BSE) is a uniform method of assessing a bull’s likelihood of accomplishing pregnancy in an appropriate number of open, healthy, cycling cows or heifers in a defined breeding season.

Trichomoniasis is a bovine venereal disease that can cause substantial reproductive and economic loss in cow-calf operations that use natural service. Many states, including Louisiana, now have regulations on movement of bulls to prevent the spread of trichomoniasis.

Winter feeding costs are a major expense in cow-calf herds. So, selecting a winter feeding program that is cost-efficient is imperative. However, making sure nutrient requirements are met during this time is critical to future profitability. An investment now can pay dividends for years to come.

Is there an absolutely safe level? The answer is probably no. For beef cows, including pregnant cows, a maximum of 100 ppb in the total diet appears to be a practical answer.

Images of major poisonous plants are presented to assist livestock owners with plant recognition. Toxic effects are also mentioned.

Understanding the virus complex is not easy, but because it causes significant disease problems, abortion and shipping fever, it is best we understand what all the letters mean and how to best deal with them.

Photosensitization, also known as photodermatitis, occurs when the liver is unable to excrete a metabolite of chlorophyll from forages the animal has eaten. The metabolite accumulates in the skin and is activated by sunlight. The reaction yields free radicals that "burn" the skin.

Anthrax in livestock and horses is described. Topics discussed include: A brief history of the disease, persistance of spores in soil, clinical signs, what to do if anthrax suspected, diagnosis, treatment, prevention and control.

The blood-sucking fly pests of Louisiana beef cattle include the horn fly, stable fly and many species of tabanids. By understanding the biology and life cycle of each pest, producers will be better able to devise more effective fly control programs. This publication explains how, in most cases, an integrated approach, whereby more than one control method is used, will prove more effective for long-term fly control. (PDF Format Only)

A brief review of the common health problems that can afflict cattle, sheep and pigs. Symptoms and treatments are described, but this is not meant to be a treatment guide. (PDF Format Only)