Calf pneumonia more prevalent with dry conditions - KOTA Territory News

Calf pneumonia more prevalent with dry conditions

The mild spring creates seemingly ideal conditions for calving but the lack of moisture is cause for some concern. 
 
Local ranchers say they're seeing more and more cases of young calves suffering from pneumonia.
State veterinarian Dr. Dustin Oedekoven  says the high winds and dusty conditions put young calves at risk for developing the infection.

Many ranchers in kota territory fear the dry weather may go beyond jeopardizing young calves, and signal a costly drought.
 
"People start thinking about downsizing their herds because they won't have enough grass. Once you sell enough cattle, it's hard to get them back when we do have good years because they're so much more expensive," said Cattle Rancher Frank Bloom.

 
Ranching the rugged land on the edge of the Badlands keeps the blooms ready to battle the elements year round.
 
"It's a challenge. you're constantly looking at the sky, wondering, is there going to be enough moisture?" said Marcene Bloom.
 
During calving season, the challenge is keeping the young ones alive through the march cold and heavy, wet snowfall.
But with this mild, dry weather, the concern is reminiscent of drought years.
 
"The dust pneumonia is getting into some herds because it is so dry whenever they walk. the dust comes up from their feet and they inhale it," said Frank.
 
"The hard part with pneumonia is that when it comes on its so fast. it's hard to prevent when they're little," said Marcene.
 
While South Dakota state veterinarian Dr. Dustin Oedekoven says the infection isn't as prevalent in other parts of the state, local ranchers are on alert for warning signs.
 
"You have to be on top of it, and see if everyone is healthy. If you see a droopy ear, you should give him a shot or he will die," said Frank.
 
"The bottom line is, the calves are your money, and that's what you live on. The more you lose the less your income is. It's huge," said Marcene.
 
The Blooms haven't had to vaccinate any of their calves yet.
But they are watching the situation closely and praying for a little moisture.
 
"If we can just fight the elements and muster through it. That's agriculture," said Frank.

Despite the dry weather, the Blooms say the warm weather has probably increased the number of calves that will survive and be sold.

Ranchers are cautioned to report wide spread instances of calve pneumonia to their veterinarians.