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Preg-Checking in a Drought Year with High Cull Cow Prices

In the dynamic world of cattle production, producers constantly face challenges that test their resilience. One such challenge for many beef producers this year is drought and higher feed costs. When water becomes scarce, pastures are stressed and the costs of maintaining a herd can surge.  

In drought conditions, every mouth to feed counts. Producers may be forced to reduce their herd size to sustain the remaining animals. In such situations, making well-informed decisions is critical for the economic viability of an operation. By preg-checking and identifying open cows, producers can choose to cull those open cows early, reduce the herd’s overall feed requirements and minimize additional costs associated with keeping the open animals. 

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When Should We Assist a Farrowing Sow? - Dr. Alexander Grahofer

Video: When Should We Assist a Farrowing Sow? - Dr. Alexander Grahofer



In this episode of The Swine it Podcast Show Canada, Dr. Alexander Grahofer, Senior Lecturer and Scientist at the Clinic for Swine, Vetsuisse Faculty Bern, examines how modern sow biology is challenging long-standing farrowing guidelines. He discusses piglet-to-piglet intervals, obstetrical intervention, hormonal balance, housing systems, colostrum access, and practical steps producers can take to support sow and piglet health. Listen now on all major platforms!

"Farrowing guidelines built around older sow populations may no longer reflect the biology and litter sizes seen in modern production."

Meet the guest: Dr. Alexander Grahofer / alexander-grahofer-05134888 is a Senior Lecturer and Scientist at the Clinic for Swine, Vetsuisse Faculty Bern, in Switzerland. His background includes porcine health management and animal reproduction, with specialization in pig reproduction and research focused on farrowing and sow health. Learn more from Dr. Alexander Grahofer on The Swine it Podcast Show Canada, available on all major platforms.