CALF_News_April_May_2018

31 CALF News • April | May 2018 • www.calfnews.net understand that we are very concerned about [food] safety and good, wholesome beef. It also involves economics. “We don’t use a bunch of drugs because we can. We want to make sure the product works. With our Veterinary Feed Directive, we show how we use a product in the feed in the exact way it is approved. That to me is showing we’re on top of everything.” Bechtol notes that his research puts him on the other side of the fence.“I’m producing a model to make cattle sick. It goes against the grain,” he says.“But I do it to evaluate an antibiotic or vaccine. I know how to prevent BRD. Large commercial feedyards and cowherds normally follow a good prevention program. But with our small-herd situation across the nation, we still have a hard time getting everyone to maintain a preven- tion program in their herds.” He compares a ranch sending calves to market to a child from a sickness-free home going to kindergarten the first time. “The child doesn’t get sick at home, but is exposed to 100 kids at schools. There are snotty noses, coughs and other illnesses to contend with. The child gets sick. It’s the same thing with cattle. There may be little sickness at the calm ranch herd. But when they hit the sale barn or feedyard, they can be exposed to all kinds of diseases. “If they haven’t been part of a preconditioning and vaccina- tion program, they can face major problems. Also, many herds will see some cattle that don’t respond to a good animal health and preconditioning program. We know how to prevent BRD. Bechtol has been key in producing training guides for feedyard cowboys and others who care for cattle on feed. Continued on page 43  JOHNSON CONCRETE LIVESTOCK WATERERS THE BEST NAME IN CATTLE WATERERS www.JohnsonConcreteProducts.com Trusted by Livestock Owners Everywhere! JOHNSON CONCRETE LIVESTOCK WATERERS 109 East B Street Hastings, Neb. 68901 phone: (402) 463-1359 toll free: (800) 752-1670 Built with features to last, Johnson Waterers withstand punishing weather and prove to be dependable year after year. TOUGH, DEPENDABLE CONSTRUCTION  See us for all your water trough needs.  We are #1 in water trough parts and services. Designed for the most punishing environments, our livestock waterers stand the test of time and deliver performance unequaled in the ndustry. CAPITOL LAND & LIVESTOCK The Schwertner Select program is a health based program aimed at weaning a calf in its healthiest, natural environment. 254.527.3342 www.cllnet.com In business since 1946, we are committed to delivering quality, country fresh calves and yearlings on time at a guaranteed price. Schwertner Select