Feeding And Care Of The Young Calf

An indispensable resource for the dairy farmer or veterinarian, the researcher, teacher, or advanced student, this book puts the cutting–edge science of raising dairy calves into an accessible, usable form. Geared to those with a basic understanding of principles of animal nutrition and husbandry, the volume gives a comprehensive account of all aspects of calf rearing, from the rudiments of anatomy and development through the practicalities of feeding and housing. The Development, Nutrition and Management of the Young Calf begins with an overview of how the calf′s digestive system develops, highlighting the period of transition from preruminant to ruminant digestion. Here the authors provide information essential to understanding nutritional needs and restrictions during the liquid–feeding phase in the young calf as well as those factors that govern the development of a functional rumen. Major emphasis is given to the energy and protein requirements of the young calf, with attention to the effects of environmental temperature on energy requirements. The authors also review the adequacy of current National Research Council recommendations on the energy and protein requirements of young calves. They discuss the management, nutrition, and care of the pregnant cow as well as calving management necessary to deliver a healthy calf. Other topics include liquid–feeding systems, formulation and use of milk replacers and starter feeds, the weaning process, housing principles, and the interactions of nutrition and disease

Four years ago, journalist Peter Lovenheim was standing in a long line at McDonald’s to buy a Happy Meal for his little daughter, which would come with a much-desired Teenie Beanie Baby—either a black-and-white cow named “Daisy” or an adorable red bull named “Snort.” Finding it rather strange that young children were being offered cuddly toy cows one minute and eating the grilled remains of real ones the next, Lovenheim suddenly saw clearly the great disconnect between what we eat and our knowledge of where it comes from. Determined to understand the process by which living animals become food, Lovenheim did the only thing he could think of: He bought a calf—make that twin calves, number 7 and number 8—from the dairy farm where they were born and asked for permission to spend as much time as necessary hanging around and observing everything that happened in the lives of these farm animals. Portrait of a Burger as a Young Calf is the provocative true story of Peter Lovenheim’s hands-on journey into the dairy and beef industries as he follows his calves from conception to possible consumption. In the process, he gets to know the good, hard-working people who raise our cattle and make milk products, beef, and veal available to consumers like you and me. He supplies us with a “fly on the wall” view of how these animals are used to put food on America’s very abundant tables. Constantly vigilant about wanting to be an observer who never interferes, Lovenheim allows the reader to see every aspect of a cow’s life, without passing judgment. Reading this book will forever change the way you think about food and the people and animals who provide it for us. From the Hardcover edition.

Designed for kids ages 9 and up, this friendly and encouraging guide introduces children to the fun and rewarding experience of raising a calf. With age-appropriate instructions, clear photographs, and easy-to-read diagrams, Heather Smith Thomas covers the basics of choosing the right calf, feeding and housing, showing, and calf health care. Whether they’re interested in raising an animal for beef or dairy, children will find everything they need to know to safely and successfully care for their very own calf.

A guide to calf management authored by veterinarians with years of experience in both practice and research. The focus is on rearing a calf for optimal health and enhanced productivity, with a focus on welfare and best practice. Handbook of Calf Health and Management employs a lifecycle approach to management, seeing the calf through from conception to bulling age. Topics covered include feeding strategies and feeding behaviour, hygiene, weaning, grazing, husbandry advice and disease management. The approach throughout is of animal and keeper working together. The information presented has a solid research foundation and is evidence based and up to date. Practical tips from the authors’ own experience are also included. Handbook of Calf Health and Management is a must have book for both cattle veterinarians, veterinary students, farmers and stockpeople with an interest in calf management. 5m Books