A few weeks ago we collected bulk milk samples from all our dairy farms and screened for the presence of antibodies to IBR, BVD, leptospirosis, liver fluke and Salmonella, depending on their vaccination status. Here’s a summary of the results: Salmonella dublin Of the 93 farms tested; 25 herds were positive for S. Dublin antibody and […]

The main reasons for a down cow generally are toxic, metabolic, or traumatic. The longer the cow is down, the worse the prognosis as damage to the leg muscles and nerves begins to occur. Once the cause of the recumbency has been identified and treatment has been planned, the cow can be moved onto soft, clean bedding – Deep straw, sand (20cm minimum), or […]

Spring grass is attractive as a low cost feed for dairy cows. But how do we manage high yielding herds that wish to graze? The first question is what cows are suitable for grazing? Dry cows (both far-off and close-up) and early lactation cows are often much easier to manage on a housed diet. Mid […]

We are thrilled to announce that we have plans for a new purpose-built farm building. Our practice has expanded significantly in all sectors since we started off in the original building many, many years ago, and our farm department in particular was in need of more space. The building will include a surgical suite, laboratory […]

We recently diagnosed Salmonella Dublin on a farm which was experiencing an increase in the number of sick cows, abortions, calf scour and pneumonia and calf mortality. We had been suspicious of Salmonella for some time. A bulk tank test showed moderate levels of exposure, but we had not been able to isolate the bacteria […]

It’s not every day you come across an animal with an extra digit! 1 year old beltex gimmer lamb recently presented with an extra toe – also known as polydactyly. Xrays were taken here at our Goosnargh practice and Oakhill Farm Vet, Amy Bowers operated to remove the extra structure. Without removal, the lamb was […]