Prepare Fields Before Turning Livestock Out

As livestock heads out to open areas for the season, its important livestock owners do what they can to promote good health.  Veterinarian Dr. Susan Kerr told the Washington Ag Network one of the simplest steps, check the fence line to ensure there are no opening that would allow your horses or cattle to get out.  Kerr said one of the chief reasons livestock suffers injuries, is moving in an unsafe area.  She added it’s also a good idea to talk with your vet about a good mineral program.

“Minerals are one of the five essential nutrients for animal health and humans as well.  We’re learning more and more about minerals.  I think the more we learn the more we realize we don’t know.  And again, that’s a local issue.  Work with your veterinarian to figure out what type of minerals to give how many and how to deliver them”

Dr. Kerry added it’s important to have a conversation with your vet to ensure you don’t have toxicity issues.  Speaking of toxicity, Kerr said its also important especially for cattle that you check for lupin, if a pregnant cow ingests the plant is can harm an unborn calf.

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