Weekly livestock news: April 10, 2023

FDA approves first generic moxidectin injectable solution to treat parasites in cattle

The FDA has approved Tauramox, the first moxidectin injectable solution indicated for beef and nonlactating dairy cattle for the treatment and control of internal and external parasites. The drug contains the same concentration of moxidectin in the same injectable dosage form as the approved brand-name drug product, Elanco’s Cydectin. It’s available over the counter.

South Dakota blizzards raise livestock production costs

Blizzards in South Dakota have significantly increased livestock producers’ costs, Brownfield Ag News reports. The north central region has received more than 100 inches of snow, and feed costs have increased. “We fed a higher-energy ration than we normally do for longer than we would normally do just due to the significant cold to keep condition on these cattle,” said Stephanie Jung, who has a seed stock operation and raises goats near Aberdeen. “These cows saw sub-zero weather for a better part of a month.”

Minnesota producers worry about feral pigs nearing Canadian border

Minnesota, long free of wild pigs, is facing the potential arrival of feral swine from Canada. Pork producers and regulators are concerned about the destruction and disease the animals could bring if they established a population in the state, the Minnesota Reformer reports. Researchers in Manitoba, Canada, have detected pigs roaming within 40 miles of the border with Minnesota, the second-largest pork-producing U.S. state. Minnesota’s Department of Natural Resources doesn’t have dedicated funding for the prevention or removal of loose or feral pigs and receives only limited federal funding.

Minnesota reports first bird flu case since December

Bird flu has been detected in Minnesota for the first time since December, the state’s Board of Animal Health said. The detection was confirmed in a backyard mixed flock in the south-central section of the state, the board said. The site was quarantined, and the 114 birds on the premises—mostly chickens—were destroyed to prevent the spread of the disease. “We continue to call on anyone who owns birds to stand up their biosecurity, especially during these next couple months,” said Dr. Shauna Voss, the board’s senior poultry veterinarian. The Associated Press reports.

University of Nevada to host ‘Farm to Fork Certification Program’ for beginning farmers

The University of Nevada, Reno Extension’s Herds & Harvest Program will host a “Farm to Fork Certification Program” Wednesdays, April 19-May 17. The courses in the program will offer information for beginning farmers and ranchers on the process of livestock and poultry production, from raising livestock to selling the products on the market. Sessions will be held on Zoom, featuring insight from established Nevada livestock and poultry producers and university experts, according to Farm Progress.

Zoetis Foundation announces first round of 2023 grants, totaling $5.3 million

The Zoetis Foundation announced it will distribute $5.3 million during its first round of 2023 grants to support livestock farmers and veterinary professionals through 21 initiatives in 15 countries. The money will also help support relief efforts for those affected by the earthquake in Turkey, according to the announcement. Grant recipients include the American Association of Bovine Practitioners Foundation, the American Veterinary Medical Foundation, the National FFA Organization and others.