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Heat stress in calves is a bigger issue than most people realize. While cows often get the most attention in summer because of the impact heat stress has on milk production, don't forget about the calves! Young calves can also be strongly affected by hot weather, especially when heat combines with humidity. Recent research shows that heat stress raises body temperature and breathing rate in calves, increases water intake, reduces growth efficiency, and can even disturb gut barrier function and contribute to inflammation.   Hydration One of the most consistent signs of heat stress in calves is increased water demand....

With some mentorship and increasing demand from other calf raisers, Cory began producing feed not just for himself, but for others. What started as a solution to a farm problem quickly turned into a business opportunity. As demand grew and his original setup was outgrown, Cory made a pivotal decision: step away from farming and focus entirely on feed production.

Even with the mild weather we have been experiencing in Southern Idaho this winter and spring, it was still nice to escape to some real "warmer" weather in Tucson Arizona for the Dairy Calf and Heifer Association annual meeting! There was so much good information shared in all the break-out sessions, but I wanted to highlight some of those that I felt were most important.   Revised Gold Standards A fifth edition of the Gold Standards was presented at the conference this year.  Changes included: Morbidity rates Colostrum recommendations Average daily gain targets Beef-dairy cross guidelines Weaning criteria Heifer retention...

Calf health traits are genetically correlated with survival, longevity, and other fitness traits. They influence how many heifers actually make it to first calving and how long they stay in the herd. Leveraging genomic information helps avoid one‑sided selection for milk yield that might otherwise erode disease resistance.

Fat is a nutrient that is gaining attention in all areas of both human and animal nutrition. Fat is a critical nutrient for energy, organs, hormone production, and cell function. It is essential for brain health, nerve signaling, and healthy epithelial barriers.   Fat for Calves Fat is a critical energy source for pre-weaned calves, supporting rapid growth, immune development, and organ function. Whole milk naturally contains about 26–40% fat (DM basis), but commercial milk replacers often provide less fat and are widely different in both fat content and source. The challenge is to meet the nutrient needs of the...