Condition of surplus dairy calves during marketing: A cross-sectional study

• DOI: 10.3168/jds.2023-23625
• Publication Date: 2023-11-02T02:07:02Z
• Authors: H.L. Maggard; G.G. Habing; D.L. Renaud; K.L. Proudfoot; Z.A. England; T.-Y. Cheng; D.J. Wilson; M. Moran; J.A. Pempek
• Keywords: Cross-sectional study

In North America, surplus dairy calves are sold soon after birth and often marketed through a third party (e.g., live auction, livestock dealer) before entering veal or beef production. Previous work has demonstrated that percentage of have failed transfer passive immunity (FTPI) clinical signs disease on arrival at calf-raising facilities, but little is known regarding calf condition during marketing. The objectives this cross-sectional study were to (1) estimate the prevalence FTPI poor health outcomes in dealers, (2) investigate association between calf-level variables (body weight, sex, source) outcomes. Two dealers Ohio visited 2 3 times per week, with approximately 28 enrolled visit for total 1,119 calves. One blood sample was obtained evaluate by measuring serum protein concentrations (using cutoff <5.1 g/dL). Calves clinically evaluated arthritis, broken ribs tail, dehydration, depression, diarrhea, fever, navel inflammation, respiratory observers; dichotomized using relevant cut points. Descriptive statistics used Multivariable logistic regression models built effect body source Nineteen percent (206/1,091) had FTPI.