WHILE today’s (Thursday) county show is a high point of the year for us, it also marks the point when we start to plan for the winter.
One of the biggest problems is pneumonia in calves, either dairy or beef.
Thankfully we now have some excellent vaccines to help prevent the commonest of the infections. As well as vaccination, close attention needs to be paid to the design of the building.
This is particularly true if any extensions or roof repairs have been carried out as these may alter the way the air leaves the building.
Specialised smoke bombs can be used to show exactly where the air moves and this should be done on days of differing weather to build up a true picture - time spent on this job is fully repaid in the improved health of the calves.
September is often the peak month for lungworm in cattle and this can be tested for in dung samples. Liver fluke may start to become a problem, so start to plan treatment with your vet now for the winter ahead. Avoid worming ewes pre-tupping as this can lead to resistance.
Iain Richards is a South Lakes vet
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