Better hoof health, better cows
The fledgling New Zealand hoof trimming industry has about between 25 to 30 active professional hoof trimmers.
Ensuring rams are in peak condition prior to mating will help maximise their performance and their contribution to the genetic improvement of the commercial flock.
Beef + Lamb New Zealand's Sarah Powdrell says, well before mating, rams should be fully vaccinated for all conditions of local significance - including salmonella and clostridial disease and be treated for any trace element deficiencies.
Selenium is particularly important as deficiencies can result in sperm defects.
Rams should be shorn at least eight weeks before mating. Crutching maybe also required closer to mating to clear the testes of wool, ensuring they don't get too hot.
Like ewes, rams should be at a Body Condition Score of 3-3.5 and on a rising plane of nutrition going into mating.
For rams that have been in the team for more than a year, they should be checked for abnormalities in the scrotum and testes and vet-checked for scrotal mange. The latter can render rams infertile by increasing the temperature of the testicles.
Feet and mouths should also be checked to ensure soundness and mobility. Foot abscesses can elevate a ram's body temperature and cause infertility for up to two months.
After mating, a second health check should be carried out and any issues addressed. Young rams or older rams with a sub-optimal body condition score may need a drench.
"Best practice is to carry out a faecal egg count to determine whether drenching is necessary," Powdrell explains. "In principle, rams should not need drenching if ram ratios, preparation, management and feed during mating were optional."
After mating, rams should be fed so they return to their pre-mating body weight within six wees.
"Don't forget about them. They are one of your farm's best assets so look after them so they can do the best for you."
Rural banker Rabobank is partnering with Food Rescue Kitchen on a new TV series which airs this weekend that aims to shine a light on the real and growing issues of food waste, food poverty and social isolation in New Zealand.
Telco infrastructure provider Chorus says that it believes all Kiwis – particularly those in the rural areas – need access to high-speed, reliable broadband.
World Veterinary Day falls on Saturday 27 April.
The Director General of MPI, Ray Smith says it's important for his department to celebrate the success of a whole range of groups and people around the country.
A small company which mobilised veterinarians around the country to deal with Mycoplasma bovis was one of the winners in this year's Biosecurity Awards, held at Parliament.
One of the country's top Māori sheep and beef farms is facing a five-year battle to get back to where it was before Cyclone Gabrielle struck just over 14 months ago.