Biosecurity & Diagnostics

"My herd numbers just aren't adding up?" 

A cattle producer reports that calf numbers are down. Their conception at preg-testing normally sits at 85%, however at branding they report only 65-70%. Somewhere between detected pregnancy and branding, there is a 15-20% loss.

Is it wild dogs, the fence cut in the night, bad seasons? 

Or is there a silent problem going unnoticed...

Dr Costello is highly suspicious of a venereal disease in the herd and does bull sheath scrapes on farm. Crush side diagnostics are preformed for a rapid, in-field, and client-vet discussion with results. 

Infected animals were identified by the end of the day on farm. Management decisions and contingencies could be made by the producer immediately. The producer reports the next preg-test and branding numbers are back on target, their business is banking 15-20 more calves per 100 breeders, grossing them approximately $15,000-$20,000 per 100 breeder units.