Resuscitation of the newborn calf

Abstract

A significant number of calves still die before or shortly after calving. Dystocia is a major risk factor and both veterinar­ians and producers need to be aware of how to identify signs of distress in newborn calves and how to help provide effective resuscitation. The main objectives are to 1) get the calf breath­ing; 2) support circulation; 3) make sure the calf is warm and 4) provide pain relief. This presentation will focus on how to iden­tify a calf that needs extra attention following birth and how to effectively triage calves and provide effective treatment to those that are good candidates for resuscitation.