Strengthening immune systems amid seasonal challenges
School is in session and kids are already bringing home the first round of fall colds. Similarly, fall is a challenging time for calf health for both dairy and beef producers. Adding pressure to this challenge is the high value of replacements whether they are dairy, beef, or beef x dairy. It is critical to get these valuable replacements off to a good start.
Calves need a strong immune system to fight off illness. Feeding enough high-quality colostrum is critical to building that immunity. Colostrum quantity, however, can be a challenge during fall and winter months. The industry doesn’t fully understand why, but some research has pointed to the shorter daylight in fall and winter. Dry-cow-management-and-nutrition solutions are inconclusive, so the general recommendation is to bank highquality colostrum or use colostrum replacer. In a 2021 study by Rossi et al., in Michigan, calves that received a second colostrum feeding had better growth rates pre-weaning, were less likely to be treated for an illness, and tended to produce more milk in their first lactation. Michigan State University Extension recommends a second meal of colostrum six to 12 hours after the first feeding, at a volume of two to three quarts. Given the benefits of a second colostrum feeding and the challenges of getting enough colostrum
in the fall and winter, colostrum replacer may be a viable option to get calves off to a good start.
Falling temperatures and damp weather increases the risk of respiratory illnesses in the fall and winter. Dairy calves born in the
Emily Middleton-Gyomory, Regional Consulting Manager
fall are more likely to be treated for pneumonia compared to calves born in the other seasons1. Often, beef calves are weaned and transported in the fall, putting them at a higher risk for pneumonia, too. Providing dry, clean bedding with a high plane of nutrition and a solid vaccination protocol is imperative. The old adage, “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure” has real meaning when it comes to calf health.
A meta-analysis published in the Journal of Dairy Science found dairy heifers diagnosed with pneumonia as a calf were twice as likely to leave the herd before their first calving, had reduced daily gains and produced 267 less pounds of milk in their first lactation. Similarly, beef calves also have reduced daily gains and feed-conversion efficiency. These long-term-production losses are in addition to the cost of treatment. With these factors in mind, fall is an ideal time to incorporate immune-support products into
your calf-management strategy to mitigate these risks and protect future performance.
Despite all our best efforts, some calves will still get sick. Antibiotics are needed to treat these sick calves, but supportive care is essential too. In addition to a clean, dry environment with fresh water, dehydrated calves may need electrolytes. Probiotics are also beneficial in restoring gut health, especially after antibiotic treatment.
While there are seasonal challenges it’s important to prevent and treat calf illness year-round. According to the USDA National Animal Health Monitoring System (NAHMS), the greatest risk for disease or death in dairy cattle is the period from birth to weaning. The genetics of a dairy heifer, beef calf, or beef x dairy calf determine their potential, but how they’re raised and managed will determine how they perform. Let’s make every replacement count.
1Closs & Dechow, 2017 2 bovinevetonline.com/news/veterinary-education/most-passive-immunity-occurs-first-six-hours
TIS THE SEASON
Reduce the risk of parasite infection with a routine deworming strategy.
EpriGard®
Internal and external parasite control for beef and dairy cattle. Kills 39 species and stages of internal and external parasites. Controls adult worms and fourthstage larvae, lice, mange mites, grubs and horn flies. Active ingredient: Eprinomectin at 5g/L. No milk or meat withholding. Sale ends 11/30/24.
AC2848 - 5L
AC2852 - 10L
Ivomec® Eprinex®
$271.62 $248.40
$480.94
Parasite control that kills 39 species and stages of internal and external parasites. Controls adult worms and fourth-stage larvae, lice, mange mites, grubs and horn flies. No milk withholding or meat withdrawal (when used according to label). Rebate savings ends 10/31/24.
MR30252 - 2.5L
MR30253 - 5L
$270.92
$375.62
MR30254 - 10L $726.01
MR19499 - 20L
"There are many products on the market; I believe BioCycle Plus is the most effective to actually solve problems instead of just putting a band-aid on it. It’s effective during times of high stress, such as the warmest days of the year, when a significant feed change happens, or anytime toxins are present in the feed. Time and again, I’ve seen it work and comments continually roll in that milk came up or failed to dip in the heat or during a feed change; SCC decreased across the herd and especially on trouble cows; conception rates increased; and heats are stronger. BioCycle Plus works!"
Tyler Freund, Area Sales Manager
AVOID FEED CHALLENGES
Feed is likely your farm’s single greatest expense. Feed contaminated with mycotoxins negatively impacts herd health, production, and reproduction. Mitigate feed challenges by protecting it at ensiling, routinely testing for mycotoxins, and feeding specific direct-fed microbials which allow nutrients to be properly utilized.
Select BioCycle Plus™
Boosts immune function, protects against changing weather and environmental conditions, and defends against mycotoxins. Producers feeding BioCycle Plus report reduced SCC, improved reproductive performance, increased digestive capacity, and improved general health. Use when metabolic diseases and toxin challenges are present, and during feed changes and palatability issues.
Buy 5, get 1 FREE. Ends 10/31/24.
AC9005 - 50lb
$386.00
Select DTX™
Research-tested and field-proven, effective for protecting cattle against mycotoxin challenges. Reduces inflammatory response when changing ration and during heat stress. Proprietary cell wall-deficient bacteria provide broadrange protection against mycotoxins. Use when symptoms are present and feed tests show problems. Multiple box/bag-purchase discount available.
AC9004 - 50lb
$292.00
BIRTH TO WEANING
From birth to weaning, every challenge a calf encounters reduces the chance of reaching their full potential. Ensure calves receive the protection they need. Provide support against the constant barrage of environment challenges your heifers face with solutions that address the light(l), moderate (l), and heavy (l) challenges.
First Day Formula®
Colostrum replacer fortified with essential vitamins and chelated trace minerals. Highquality-whey-protein concentrate from select Grade A dairies, free of organisms causing colostrum-transmissible diseases, like Johne’s disease. Each dose contains 150 IgG. CR Deluxe includes First Defense Technology™.
A0043 - CR (replacer or supplement) 500gram
A0044 - CR (replacer or supplement) 20lb
A0045 - CR Deluxe (replacer) 500gram
A0046 - CR Deluxe (replacer) 20lb
A0047 - CS (supplement) 200gram
BioFresh® Microbial Gel
$41.00
$682.50
$48.00
$810.00
$15.75
Enhances feed intake, improves ruminal fermentation, and supports immune function for dairy and beef cattle of all ages. Use at weaning, receiving, transporting, calving, off-feed, or during low-intake periods. Supplies beneficial bacteria, egg-based specialized proteins, and critical vitamins and minerals. Save 10%. Ends 10/1/23 - 10/31/23.
AC11020 - 280cc
$55.00
First 21™
Bridge the immunity gap during the first three weeks of life. Available as a complete milk replacer or nutritional supplement. Incorporates three natural sources of antibodies (plasma, egg yolk, and colostrum) to promote gut health and immune support.
A0080 - Complete Milk Replacer 50lb
A0083 - Supplement 20lb
$84.00
$221.50
Woolover®
Original Woolover is a high-performance blanket that keeps animals warm and dry, allowing nutrients to be used for growth. Made of 70% wool and 30% polyester. Limited supply.
UM3602 - Small (77-99lbs)
UM3605 - Medium (99-121lbs)
$42.00 $24.00
Fall Special
Calf Accellyte
A complete electrolyte. Contains potassium and sodium to replenish electrolytes and restore proper fluid balance. Blended with glycine and citrate to improve electrolyte and water absorption. Dextrose provides nutritional energy and buffers to help minimize metabolic acidosis. Easily mixes with water.
A0053 - 3.6lb
A0054 - 10lb
A0055 - 25lb
Accel RS
A recovery solution aiding in hydration and digestive health for calves. Contains Tri-Mic WD as a source of live, viable, naturally occurring microorganisms. Accel RS works to restore, reenergize, recolonize, and rehydrate calves.
A0596 - Single-dose 4oz
A0599 - 6lb
A0597 - 25lb
AccelAIRate
$31.00
$78.00
$169.50
$3.75
$64.50
$164.00
Alleviates symptoms of respiratory disease and supports recovery from respiratory distress. Helps reduce irritation of the throat and suppresses coughing, stimulates appetite, and drives feed intake. Contains Mannon-Oligosaccharides (MOS), Beta-Glucans and Nucleotides to protect against secondary pathogens.
A0040 - 4.4lb $74.00
A0041 - 22lb
“Farms I work with give CONVERT at birth for the prevention of scours and to get the calf up and nursing. The 15-cc dose works great and promotes biosecurity. For more stubborn cases, an extra dose, with a 3-ounce dose of Accel RS can make all the difference. Customers keep coming back to CONVERT because it works, and I'm always here with dependable service.”
Dave Loonstra, Area Sales Manager
Special runs October 1 - November 30, 2024. Prices subject to change without notice.
Tri-Start Jr.+ Paste
Helps stimulate feed intake during periods of change. Contains live, viable, naturally occurring microorganisms, a short-chain fatty acid, egg protein (IgY), vitamins, and selenium. Enhances the environment of the digestive tract to activate the naturally occurring beneficial digestive microbes.
Tri-Start Jr. - Maroon Bolus
A direct-fed microbial bolus that benefits both the rumen and intestinal tract of calves. Each capsule has a guaranteed viable (live) count of 20 billion colony forming units (CFU) of naturally occurring microorganisms. Helps to stimulate feed intake during periods of change. Contains beneficial microbes to jump-start a calf’s stalled digestive system.
Tri-Purify - Blue Bolus
Dietary feed supplement that provides pure, natural essential oils that have a strong antibacterial effect to improve the natural immune system. Combines live, naturally occurring microorganisms to enhance the environment of the digestive tract. Contains nutraceuticals, intestinal bacteria, and live cell yeast; to reduce the severity and occurrence of scours.
A0051 - 36ct
CONVERT™ Gel
$89.50
Use at birth, when calves are lethargic, not eating or doing poorly, at transport/pen movement, and when under environmental stress. Contains live and stable beneficial bacteria, and egg-based specialized proteins which assist in the reduction of scour-causing organisms. Antibiotic free. Blue-color gel ensures treatment compliance.
CONVERT™ BIG Calf Powder
Assists calves from birth through weaning. Stable beneficial bacteria and egg-based specialized proteins improve nutrient absorption, restrict pathogen growth, enhance immune function, and stimulate starter-feed intake. Research shows improved daily feed intake and lung scores. Mix in milk or milk replacer.
“7HO17200 GOLLEY is a breed leading 232 pounds of combined fat and protein along with a DWP$ of +1,411. GOLLEY daughters will have a great combination of dairy and strength along with rump width. He is also a RobotPRO® specialist with ideal teat size and length. If you like cow families on the bulls you use, GOLLEY is from 13 generations of Very Good and Excellent dams.
Bob Sabo Genetic Consultant
“Reigning from one of Select’s most influential cow families, 7HO17142 STAGGER climbs to the top of the HHP$ list. He’s a bull that combines desirable health traits, A2A2, as well as having a moderate, yet pleasing linear block. This bull is bound to transmit to the next generation with high CFP, low somatic cell, and welded on mammary systems.”
Malissa Reed Genetic Consultant
CFP LEADERS HEALTH-TRAITS LEADERS A2A2 LEADERS
NAAB Name
7HO17194 DONALD 14HO17179 TROPICANA
7HO17094 HIGUERA
7HO16935 GIANT 250HO17404 EEYORE
“7HO17194 DONALD SHEEPSTER, the of sons in A.I. today. in the breed for DWP$ +1,410 lbs. milk, +3312 TPI, +1.54 PTAT. His linear profile and will make well-balanced Zoetis Wellness Traits profile trouble-free.”
Director
LEADERS TYPE LEADERS POLLED LEADERS
DONALD is by the most dominant sire today. This bull ranks 13th DWP$ at +1,525 and offers TPI, +1,321 NM$, and profile is “easy on the eye” well-balanced cows, His promising profile spells cows that can be
“7HO17158 HOLY-P exemplifies why breeders of all herd sizes and parameters should be using NxGEN. At over +160 CFP, more than +1,050 HHP$,
+3.35 PTAT, polled genetics, a near-perfect linear profile, and a globally respected cow family, HOLY-P checks all the boxes for the most discriminating breeding program.”
“Backed by 13 generations of Very Good and Excellent dams, 250HO17298 HABULOUS-P is an elite polled sire that combines discriminating type, health, production, and the right caseins. This heavily used sire father is from a VG-87 PARFECT sister to HOLY-P. He epitomizes the modern high-type, profit-driven bull that can work in any breeding program.”
Service
Jim Sipiorski Director of A.I. Sales and
Lynn Harbaugh Area Sales Manager
Kevin Jorgensen Select Sires Senior Sire Analyst
Manure Makeover:
Maximize value for low-carbon-production practices
Founded in 2023 as the sustainability division of Select Sires Inc., Low Carbon Technologies (LCT) focuses on helping producers maximize the value of cattle and their operations by earning a premium for low-carbon-production practices. Earlier this year, LCT teamed up with Resonant Technology™ Group in a new distribution agreement of products aimed at boosting the productivity and sustainability of livestock operations. The portfolio of products includes innovative manure-management and animal-health solutions powered by SOP™ Inside technology.
As a member-owner of Select Sires, CentralStar Cooperative now offers SOP Lagoon, the only natural manure product proven to reduce operational dairy expenses while simultaneously suppressing the release of ammonia, greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, and odors. SOP Lagoon metabolizes nutrients found in animal waste by activating bio-valorization. The powdered additive conditions the microbial populations present in manure to fluidify waste solids, reducing the need for agitation and bolstering its fertilization properties.
Supported by multiple scientific studies from esteemed institutions such as University of California, Davis (UC Davis), Davis, Calif., and the University of Milan, Milan, Italy, SOP Lagoon has been successfully utilized in Italy for more than 20 years. The product
is now undergoing further evaluation in North America, with trials implemented in June 2024. These trials aim to validate the immediate effectiveness of SOP Lagoon, while also assessing the potential operational-cost savings it can provide to dairy farmers. Currently, North American product trials are showing early positive results. One dairy producer, approximately three months into the trial, has already reported a noticeable reduction in odors and thinner crust formation in their manure lagoon, which is expected to reduce the time and cost of lagoon agitation before applying the manure to fields in the fall. Additionally, fewer flies around the farm and inside the barn have been observed. Another trial at a 1,200head dairy reports a 46% reduction of ammonia emissions since implementing SOP Lagoon three months ago.
SOP Lagoon offers significant operational savings, improved manure-management efficiency, and environmental benefits. For more information, talk to your CentralStar team or LCT Product Specialist Ian Johnson at ijohnson@selectsires.com
Immediate Operational Benefits and Savings:
• Reduces the need for synthetic fertilizers.
• Encourages improved soil health and plant nutrient uptake.
• Minimizes the need for costly pest management solutions.
• Lessens the frequency of liquid manure agitation and related fuel and equipment expenses by fluidifying lagoon waste, preventing crust formation and allowing for easier field application.
Environmental Protection and Social Responsibility:
• Dramatically decreases the production of GHG and ammonia emissions.
• Virtually eliminates animal waste odors. SOP Lagoon is distributed by Select Sires Inc. through the wholly-owned sustainability company, Low Carbon Technologies, LLC. Buyer assumes all responsibility for use, storage and handling of SOP Lagoon. Low Carbon Technologies, LLC makes no claims or warranties, expressed or implied. Resonant is developing a new protocol to maximize the credit value generated and attributable to the application of SOP Lagoon in a program. Customers will receive majority of the net economic benefits from such credits once issued. ™SOP is a trademark of SOP S.r.l. Società Benefit. Resonant Technology is a trademark of SOP GROUP S.r.l.
New features from CowManager: Lifetime monitoring for every life phase
You know maintaining your herd’s health is key to maximizing milk production and optimizing reproductive performance. Those goals are even easier to achieve with the new lifetime monitoring, along with the latest innovations, now available with CowManager.
Youngstock Monitoring
The new Youngstock Monitor focuses on calves during their critical development period. With lightweight sensors built to last a lifetime, you'll have continuous, seamless monitoring to track animals throughout every phase of their life.
Lifetime Sensors
New, durable sensors come with a lifetime warranty, and the lightweight design is smaller compared to previous versions. With improved battery life and reduced power consumption of 33%, they meet the highest quality standards.
CowManager App CowManager has gone fully responsive with its new app update, meaning it will automatically adjust to any mobile screen. It includes enhanced functionalities, including integration with genomic data (with Zoetis US).
Sort My Cow
The CowManager Sort Gate pairs advanced ear sensor monitoring with smart sorting technology to reduce labor, shorten lock-up times, and boost efficiency. Its double ID system ensures fast, accurate sorting, while the pneumatic-free design keeps noise low and works in extreme temperatures. Made in the USA from stainless steel, it’s built to last in tough conditions.
Exclusive October Offer
Purchase CowManager during the month of October and receive 20% off all hardware. You can also take advantage of a 0% spread hardware payment plan. Talk to your CentralStar team for complete details on this offer, and to learn more about CowManager’s innovative new features!
E-newsletters geared toward helping you GET MORE from your genetics, reproduction, milk, data, and herd health.
• Farm-success stories
• Educational content
• And more!
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and sign up for our DAIRY e-mail, BEEF e-mail, or BOTH.
PortaBHB Milk Ketone Test
Catch ketosis before it catches you with easy, affordable, on-farm screening.
• Semi-quantitative milk dipstick test
• 1-minute reaction time
• 2-year shelf life when stored at room temperature
• NO refrigeration required
Order from your local CentralStar team member or online.
Thegenetic choices you make today can provide massive returns - perhaps some of the biggest on your dairy. Expand your options and maximize your herd's potential by opting for the diversity and superiority of the Select Sires brands every time.
Components and mastitis-resistance
Developing cows that have fewer instances of mastitis and deliver more pounds of solids is a profitable strategy. The Select Sires lineup provides you with more than double the choices to create these trouble-free, high-producing cows.
Health and wellness
Optimize your cow health strategy by choosing sires that excel in health and wellness. HHP$® is a well-rounded health index that doesn’t sacrifice components or functional type traits. It also focuses on the health events that cost your dairy the most dollars: lameness and mastitis. Through HHP$, you can boost cow health and longevity, without sacrificing genetic merit or solids.
Top 100 Sires for Herd Health Profit Dollars
(HHP$®)
Fertility without compromise
Lifetime performance
An all-encompassing, multi-traits selection index, DWP$® is focused on the overall lifetime merit of the dairy cow. A validation study1 tracked the lifetime performance of 2,185 genomic tested heifers in five herds and results showed heifers in the top quartile for DWP$ generated $811 more profit during their productive life. For every $1 increase in DWP$, heifers returned an additional $1.84 of lifetime profit.
Select Sires is committed to using the most advanced technology in semen evaluation, processing, storage, and handling. This commitment is also frequently demonstrated by the significant amount of semen discarded that does not meet the rigorous standards in the final evaluation of semen quality. Fertility without compromise to ensure you get the results you deserve!
Many input costs on your dairy are expensive and depreciate the moment you bring them home. That’s not the case with genetics. Choosing the best genetics available can provide massive returns – perhaps some of the biggest on your dairy. Let CentralStar help you get more from your genetic investment every time!
Call for Board Candidates
Later this year, director elections will be conducted in districts 2, 5, 8, and 11. Common stockowners who meet the qualifications and submit a candidate application by Nov. 1, 2024, are eligible to run for the appropriate available position.
Visit www.mycentralstar.com for more information. Scan the QR code to access the application.
WHAT'S NEW?
Internship opportunities
CentralStar has open applications for several paid internships in summer of 2025. There are internships available in various roles and states. Applications are due Oct. 31, 2024. Get more details here, https://centralstar.info/internships2025, including how to apply.
Special deals & Closeouts
Checkout https://mycentralstar.com/product-category/specials/ for the latest specials and closeout offers. You’ll find great deals on Thrifty Dipper, Slap-Shot Vaccinator, teat-dip cups, and more. Closeout items must be ordered online. Visit today and take advantage of these limited-time offers!
National DHIA Scholarship
The National Dairy Herd Information Association (DHIA) will offer $1,000 scholarships to high school seniors and college undergraduate students. Applicants must be full-time, incoming or continuing students at a technical college or a two-year or four-year college/university. Get all the details here, https://dhia.org/ scholarships/. Applications are due Oct. 31, 2024.
CentralStar Holiday Savings
Watch for a special opportunity this November to purchase CentralStarbranded merchandise at discounted prices, just in time for the holidays! Stay tuned for details on CentralStar’s Facebook and Instagram pages, as well as in the November statement mailing.
December prepay reward
Boost your buying power by an extra 3% when you make a prepayment toward your 2025 purchases with CentralStar. To earn the 3% reward, simply send a check between Dec. 1 - 30, 2024, with "prepay" noted in the memo line. Make sure your account it up-to-date to be eligible.