Product Description

From the keeper of a family milk cow to the rancher overseeing a large beef herd, anyone who works with cattle has a vested interest in maintaining the animals' health. In most cases, the financial viability of a farm depends on the continued well-being of the farm animals. Large-animal veterinarians are in short supply and their bills can add up quickly, so it's often up to the farmer to provide routine health care.

The Cattle Health Handbook is the essential medical reference for farmers and ranchers confronting day-to-day bovine health issues. Heather Smith Thomas, an expert on livestock with decades of first-hand experience, covers every routine situation — and many not-so-common problems — likely to arise on a cattle ranch or dairy farm. Three broad sections cover common diseases, ailments specific to certain body systems, and other ailments and injuries.

Beginning with detailed information on how to detect signs of illness, the book progresses through the various causes of cattle health problems, describing symptoms and discussing prevention and treatment. Readers will find reassuring advice on handling bacterial and viral diseases; digestive and respiratory problems; eye, skin, foot, and mouth irritations; injuries and wounds; and much more. Thomas also helps farmers recognize when a situation calls for veterinary assistance. Case histories, real characters, and humorous anecdotes give the text a warm voice of authority.

Primary income source or country hobby, cattle are unique; the people who care for them want their animals to be healthy and comfortable. For the first-time dairy farmer or the experienced cattle rancher, this reliable volume is a must-have resource.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #108307 in Books
• Published on: 2009-03-11
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Paperback
• 372 pages

About the Author
Heather Smith Thomas raises cattle and horses on her family ranch in Salmon, Idaho. She is the author of 10 books and thousands of articles on animal health care. Her books include Essential Guide to Calving, Getting Started with Beef & Dairy Cattle, and Storey's Guide to Raising Beef Cattle.

Customer Reviews

Whether it be for a single cow or an entire herd, this is an excellent survey
Any involved with cattle and many a rural library collection catering to farmers will find THE CATTLE HEALTH HANDBOOK an essential guide. It provides solutions to common problems in managing cattle health, discusses everything from common diseases to weather-related health issues, and packs in tips on handling accidents, injuries, and common problems. Whether it be for a single cow or an entire herd, this is an excellent survey.

Great addition to our library
This book was wonderful as we recently purchased brood cows and calves. VERY helpful.