Scottish launch pad for new high health suckler calf category

Demand for spring-born suckler calves that are already protected from pneumonia has resulted in a new calf category being on sale at selected Scottish livestock markets this autumn..

With the objective of minimising stress-related disease outbreaks, particularly pneumonia, on moving to a buyer's unit, calves will have been treated before sale according to the new PrimeVac scheme, developed by Pfizer Animal Health working closely with livestock auctioneers.

According to Pfizer livestock development adviser Bryan Hamilton, the scheme's aim is a smooth transition from vendor to buyer by vaccinating against the main respiratory viruses before calves are sold. "This ensures they are protected before the stresses of moving and mixing with other cattle," he says.

For calves to qualify for PrimeVac status, the vendor must certify that the programme has been followed exactly, supported by proof of purchase of the treatments. The four PrimeVac treatments are:

· PreWean: Pre-weaned calves from three months of age are vaccinated against the viruses RSV, PI3, BVD and IBR, given as two doses of a combination vaccine 21 to 28 days apart. The second dose must be given at least two weeks before sale.

· PreWean-Plus: Same as PreWean, plus one treatment with a doramectin-based wormer up to five weeks before sale.

· PostWean: Calves are weaned at least six weeks before sale. At or after weaning, they are vaccinated against the viruses RSV, PI3, BVD and IBR, given as two doses of a combination vaccine 21 to 28 days apart. Calves must be at least three months of age when the first dose is given and the second dose must be given at least two weeks before sale.

· PostWean-Plus: Same as PostWean, plus one treatment with up a doramectin-based wormer to five weeks before sale.

Bryan Hamilton says increasing numbers of buyers appreciate the value of the pre-sale treatment involved. "All PrimeVac calves will be clearly marked in sales catalogues and their status will be announced as they enter the ring," he says.

A pioneer of pre-sale vaccination is Raymond Mackinnon from Meikle Barncleugh Farm, Irongrey, Dumfries. On 9th October last year, he sold a batch of steer and heifer calves for £1.61/kg average, compared with that day's averages of £1.53/kg for steers and £1.34 for heifers. Two weeks later, another batch made 26p/kg above the day's average. According to Mr Mackinnon, buyers say better health and lower vet bills make such premiums worth paying.