Calf rearing roadshow to pull into Cavan

A West Cavan farmer is set to host the Cavan leg of the CalfCare series.

Organised by Animal Health Ireland (AHI) the series will see 16 farm families across the country host on-farm events in collaboration with Teagasc’s DairyBeef500 Programme.

Seamus Dolan is set to welcome participants onto his Killynaff farm (H14 K583), where the theme will be, 'Healthy Calves, Your Profitable Future'. It will highlight the connection between good calf health, animal welfare, and farm profitability. It shows how steps taken before the calf lands right through weaning and the first year of life will ensure the next generation of the herd are ready to deliver for the farmer.

The first of the events have already been staged, and the roadshow will run to January 22, delivering practical, science-based insights to support farmers in achieving the highest possible standard in calf development. Supported by the agri-food industry including dairy co-ops and meat processors, each event will showcase best practice in calf husbandry, management, and performance.

Dr Michelle McGrath from AHI said: “There is no middle ground when it comes to producing a healthy calf be that for sale or for entering into your own herd. The health and well-being of the calf is critical to rearing a quality calf. Taking the important steps outlined at the AHI CalfCare series will help ensure that calves are healthy and well-reared in order to be profitable for farmers."

Meanwhile Alan Dillon, DairyBeef500 Programme Manager at Teagasc enthused: “Whether it’s dairy or dairy-beef calves, it’s vital to reinforce the importance of excellent calf management for both dairy and beef systems. Following the strong engagement with last year’s events, continued collaboration across sectors will deliver real on-farm benefits.”

All CalfCare events start at 11am and will be hosted on participating farms nationwide.