CALF_News_August_September_2021

41 CALF News • August | September 2021 • www.calfnews.net is Cameron, Texas’s, 44 Farms and their 44 Farms Angus Steaks.With its roots dating back to 1909 with the first cattle branded with “44,” the McClaren family has become the largest registered Angus operation in Texas and the fourth largest in the U.S. Their Angus genetics are sold into nearly every state and to many ranches around the world. In 2012, 44 Farms launched an online source for their Prime and Choice steaks and is now featured in more than 100 restaurants across Texas. “We want people to know where their food comes from.We call it the 44 Farms ‘Know Your Rancher’ program,” says CEO Bob McClaren. “We invite people to come to the ranch to see how the cattle are cared for. The more people know about us, the more confi- dent they will be in the quality and wholesomeness of our beef, and they will see firsthand our commitment to being responsible stewards of the land and cattle that God created.” Their program is one of integration – “from conception to the table.” Being able to control their cattle genetics, nutri- tion, healthcare, the water they drink and every step of the process to the table, 44 Farms is able to ensure that quality and compassion are at the core of everything that is done. Considering responsible ranching practices, preservation of their breeds’ bloodlines and stewardship of the natural resources, whether from Lone Creek Cattle Company, HeartBrand Beef or 44 Farms, I again am anxious not to overcook, but honored to have their steaks on my backyard grill. Like Bob McClaren fondly says and I concur, “The best is yet to be.”  In a recent high-risk calf study, Richeson compared the effi- cacy of metaphylaxis – giving antimicrobials, such as Zactran ® – with a five-way modified live virus (MLV) vaccine. “It was clear that metaphylaxis reduced morbidity, mortality and improved feed intake and gain,” Richeson reports. “The vaccine didn’t affect animal health at all.” Metaphylaxis gives Richeson a post metaphylaxis interval (PMI). For instance, he implements a seven-day PMI, allow- ing antimicrobials to work in cattle while they acclimate to the feedyard. Richeson employs solid animal husbandry practices to encourage calves to eat, rehydrate and rest as much as pos- sible during the PMI. Richeson believes metaphylaxis is key to managing BRD. After the PMI, animals are eligible for additional treatments. He urges operators to find sick cattle as early as possible, while minimizing handling and comingling in the yard. “Only certain people are good at buying high-risk cattle, managing them and working through the process,” Richeson observes. “Staying the course, being dedicated to what you’re doing, caring about the animals, and paying attention to the latest research and practices give those animals the best option to thrive and be healthy.”  SHIPPING FEVER Continued from page 39