Kevin Fenton shares prevention and treatment strategies
For nearly three decades, Oklahoma veterinarian and rancher Kevin Fenton has worked to reduce the threat of bovine respiratory disease (BRD) and strengthen cattle health. He and his wife, Jennifer, run Fenton Animal Clinic and Fenton Cattle Company, where they help ranchers control diseases through careful management.
Fenton stresses controlling what farmers can—biosecurity, preventive medicine, and strong immunity from birth. Calves must receive colostrum within four hours of birth to gain vital antibodies. As maternal protection fades, vaccinations are essential. ““The main thing we try to emphasize with our cattle clients is to be in control of the situations that we can actually be in control of, whether it’s biosecurity or implementing a proactive preventive-medicine protocol,” said Dr. Fenton.
PYRAMID® vaccines allow safe early calf vaccinations, followed by preweaning and postweaning boosters to keep immunity strong.
Testing for bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV) is another priority. Persistent infection spreads quickly and weakens immunity, increasing BRD risk. “The immune system, whether that’s humans or cattle, is very complex and unique,” said Dr. Fenton. “As veterinarians, I feel like we really need to be aware of its ability to protect an animal.” Removing infected calves protects the herd and adds market value.
Early detection and rapid treatment are key when BRD strikes. Symptoms can be subtle, and sick cattle may hide illness. Fenton and industry expert Dr. Jody Wade recommend immediate action with fast-acting antibiotics such as ZACTRAN® to give calves the best chance at recovery.
“It costs us more money than any of the other animal health diseases that we deal with, as far as the beef cattle segment is concerned,” said Dr. Wade. “What we’re trying to figure out are the best ways to battle against bovine respiratory disease, so that we can actually stay ahead of it.”
From colostrum to vaccines, testing, and swift care, Fenton’s approach shows that proactive management reduces losses and helps cattle reach their full potential while keeping operations profitable.
Photo Credit: istock-dusanpetkovic