Join the Merino Sheep & Wool Experts Society
South Africa’s sheep and wool industry needs experts to maintain the current high standard of sheep classing.
The Santa Gertrudis: an amazing all-rounder
The Santa Gertrudis is a hardy, medium-framed, short-haired animal, and well adapted to a variety of climatic conditions.
How to effectively wean beef cattle calves
The methods and time of weaning play a vital role in beef production by influencing the weaning weight of calves, as well as the condition of the cows.
Supplements: to feed or not to feed?
Given the high cost of supplements, is it worth feeding lambs on veld? A recent study provides some answers, says Roelof Bezuidenhout.
Hoof management guidelines
Although an animal with hoof problems may be able to function normally, malformed hooves can have an impact on production and performance. Annelie Coleman spoke to cattle farrier and hoof...
Good vaccination practices
According to the Ruminant Veterinary Association of South Africa, vaccination is crucial in preventing illness in animals.
How to catch a stock thief
Every animal is unique, and stock handling can leave distinct marks on individual animals. These two facts can be used by law enforcement officers to prosecute stock thieves effectively. Gerhard...
Beef cattle farming: get the infrastructure right
Ensure that you have the right facilities: a crush pen, a neck clamp and a squeeze chute.
Tips on selecting heifers
Correct selection is crucial for a high reproduction rate, high weaning weight and low calf mortality in a beef cattle herd, says the ARC’s Leslie Bergh.
Feeding dairy cows roughage
Before putting together a feeding schedule, confirm the properties of the available feed.
Buy cattle from a reputable breeder
There are many sources of good cattle, both registered (stud) and commercial. It is best to purchase from a successful and reputable breeder who sells only sound cattle as breeding...
How to develop and manage a small beef cattle herd
Raising cattle properly requires money, land and skill. Do you have enough of each to enter this business? Equally importantly, do you have a genuine interest in cattle?
Animal health: Rabies
It is time once more for our annual warning about this deadly disease. Rabies can strike any warm-blooded animal and it is rightfully a feared zoonosis.
Understanding fodder flow
It’s crucial for livestock health and economic efficiency to bring herd size in line with the fodder production of the farm, so that sufficient quality dry matter is provided on...
Habitual abortions in goats
Habitual abortions can cause devastating financial losses, and culling will be required to bring it under control.
Rift Valley Fever in sheep and goats
Rift Valley Fever causes abortions and death of lambs, and can be fatal to humans. Vaccination is crucial.
Dealing with enzootic abortion
This infectious condition is one of the most common causes of abortion and death in sheep and goats.
How to be a good stockman
Whether you’re farming in the semi-desert or on pasture, you will benefit from having a practised eye, says Roelof Bezuidenhout.
How stress affects livestock health
Livestock can suffer stress even during normal handling, increasing their susceptibility to a number of serious diseases.
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