CALF_News_April_May_2018

33 CALF News • April | May 2018 • www.calfnews.net 300 pounds cannot be diagnosed. In order for outlying cattle and other species to benefit, science will have to go back to zero and start over. Merck Animal Health continues to look for ways to refine, develop and expand the program. Getting started with Whisper The Whisper Stethoscope costs $550. Since nearly all size- able feeding operations are already equipped with chuteside computers, Whisper software can be merged into existing systems. Laptops can also be purchased from Merck Animal Health. There is a monthly fee thereafter, based on feedyard capac- ity. Troubleshooting service is avail- able 24/7, performed remotely. Feedyard management training is extremely important. Staff needs to be receptive to new technology, able to learn and be comfortable with the program. Training generally takes a day; Merck personnel will return a week later to re-evaluate and then occasionally check up to ensure things are running smoothly. Young employees are especially quick to comprehend the system, having grown up using computers and smartphones. They appreciate the backup that incoming data gives their treatment decisions. Crew members understand that the method of treatment is still up to them, but they have a more complete picture with which to work. Communication among the pen crews is increased as data and treatment are discussed, adding another dimen- sion to cattle care. As for the amazing stethoscope, it must be kept dry. Cattle will give a more accurate test the cleaner and dryer they are. In summary The value of Whisper in improv- ing diagnostic accuracy, optimizing treatment costs and minimizing antibiotic use. It also promotes optimum therapy with alternative drugs, improves consumer percep- tion issues and economizes medicine use in feedyards.  Treating every animal for BRD not only wastes time and money, but antibiotics can actually kill beneficial rumen bacteria, harming cattle further. CST Central States Testing www.cstbvd.com 1795 Rd PP Sublette, KS | 620.675.8640 CST-QuickTest The new on site BVD-PI test, designed for high volume producers. Results in under 30 minutes Easy to run, only four steps Run 100+ samples at one time Starts at $2.95, volume discounts Learn more at cstbvd.com/quicktest Call and order yours today! TEXAS FEED FAT CO., INC. TEXAS FEED FAT CO., INC. P.O. Box 1790 • Durant, Oklahoma 74702 We specialize in Quality Feed Fatand Quality Service. Leaders in the feed fat industry since 1974! Durant, Oklahoma Ted Kirkpatrick (580) 924-1890 Hereford,Texas Kirk Sehi (806) 363-6490 calltoday! The Merck Whisper Veterinary Stethoscope System – a tool specifically designed to evaluate lung disease severity for more accurate diagnosis of bovine respiratory disease (BRD).