Larkmead News
African Swine Fever (ASF)
African swine fever seems to be a never ending hot topic. Reports suggesting that over half the breeding population has been wiped out in China, it would not be unreasonable to assume that it will...
Preventing Ewe Mastitis
Lambing time is the danger period of the year for ewes. From twin lamb disease, to prolapses and difficult lambings, to uterine infections- all are seen just prior to, at or just after lambing,...
Flooding: The Long Term Impacts on Livestock Health
Recent years have given us more than a few weather challenges; from the “beast from the East” to some of the driest summers in years. These extreme conditions keep us on our toes at Larkmead as we...
Some Top Tips to Help Your Pet Lose Weight
The top 3 new years resolutions are to exercise more, lose weight and save money! At Larkmead we regularly see pets that are overweight and just like with us, this can contribute to a number of...
The Dangers of Christmas!
We all love treats at Christmas and the temptation to snaffle a chocolate (or 17) can sometimes be too much for your dog if they're left within reach. Last Christmas Eve we saw an unprecedented...
Dairy Discussion Group Meeting - Foot Care
In the last week of November we held our first dairy discussion group meeting of the winter at Sherwood Farm. Firstly, a huge thank you to Angus Dart, Dorian Jenkins and the farm team for hosting...
Looking After Your Senior Pets
Generally pets are classed as senior once they reach 7-8 years old, although it can be earlier for some breeds. Just like with ourselves, their needs can change and it is worth ensuring that we...
Reducing Antibiotic Usage in Suckler Herds
Antibiotic usage in suckler herds is relatively lower than most other livestock industries. The suckler industry has therefore come under less intense scrutiny to reduce its antibiotic usage. RUMA...
Calf Pneumonia
Calf pneumonia, also known as Bovine Respiratory Disease (BRD), is a multi-factorial disease represented by viral, bacterial and environmental factors that can act together, affecting the young...
Seasonal Infertility
What is it? A drop in fertility performance in gilts and sows in the summer and early autumn. It usually manifests in two ways: 1. More difficulty coming on heat Delayed puberty in gilts Increased...