Lambing season is one of the busiest and most rewarding times of the year for sheep farmers. Proper preparation can make the difference between a successful season and one full of unnecessary challenges. At Murray Farmcare, we’re here to support you every step of the way. Here are our top tips to ensure you’re ready:… Read more »
Hygiene at lambing or calving time is key to reducing infection and losses. As an industry, we’ve worked hard to move away from blanket antibiotic use, and now good hygiene is where additional gains will be seen. Good hygiene at lambing or calving can be split into four main categories: We will focus on new… Read more »
At Murray Farmcare, we understand that lamb welfare is at the heart of every sheep farming operation. That’s why we’re proud to introduce ClipFitter—an innovative solution designed to improve the welfare of lambs while making farmers’ lives easier. What is ClipFitter? ClipFitter is a cutting-edge applicator that simplifies and enhances the process of fitting docking… Read more »
With the cost of a case of clinical mastitis in the region of £322 and 50-60% of all new infections caused by environmental pathogens picked up during the dry period (see figure 1), then mastitis control in the dry period should not be the poor relation in your herd health program. Managing dry cows and… Read more »
We are writing to inform you about a recent change to the Veterinary Medicines Regulations that is now in effect. These new regulations require anyone prescribing a prescription-only medicine, including our SQPs and Territory Managers, to document the reason for prescribing that medicine. What this means when you order from our SQPs in store or… Read more »
Ketosis is one of the most common metabolic diseases affecting dairy cows in the UK and Ireland. It typically occurs when a cow is unable to meet the energy demands of early lactation. Ketosis causes her to go off her feed, resulting in weight loss and a drop in milk production. What is ketosis? It… Read more »
As the days shorten and temperatures drop, farmers across the country are preparing to bring their cattle and sheep indoors for winter. One important task to consider before housing your animals is worming. Treating livestock for parasites before housing can have a significant impact on their health and productivity through the winter months and beyond…. Read more »
Hypomagnesaemia is a potentially life-threatening condition that affects cattle and sheep, especially during periods of rapid grass growth. Being aware of the causes, symptoms, and preventive measures is key to protecting your herd. What is Hypomagnesaemia? Hypomagnesaemia occurs when livestock do not receive enough magnesium (Mg) in their diet. Magnesium plays a crucial role in… Read more »
As calving season approaches, one of the most critical steps in ensuring the health and survival of your newborn calves is providing them with high-quality colostrum. Known as the first milk, colostrum is a rich source of essential nutrients and antibodies, providing the foundation for a calf’s immune system. Without proper attention to the quality… Read more »
While many factors influence the success of tupping, one of the most important yet often overlooked areas is the role of minerals and vitamins in ewe fertility and ram performance. Providing your flock with the right nutritional balance, especially during this critical period, can lead to improved conception rates, healthier pregnancies, and stronger lambs. Why… Read more »
As the cooler, wetter weather sets in, livestock are at a heightened risk of contracting coccidiosis, a parasitic disease that can have a devastating impact on your herd’s health and productivity. Early signs such as diarrhea, reduced appetite, and general lethargy are often the only indicators of infection, making it critical to stay vigilant during… Read more »
As late summer approaches, effective parasite control becomes crucial for maintaining the health and productivity of your livestock, whether you’re managing dairy cattle, beef cattle, or sheep. Parasites, both internal and external, continue to pose significant threats during this period, and a proactive approach is essential to mitigate their impact. Here’s how you can manage… Read more »