Welcome to another edition of the American Cattlemen Podcast.  Just ahead we have the Director of Business Development of the American Cattlemen, Dustin Hector, who sits down with Dr. Michelle Calvo-Lorenzo with Elanco. Dr. Michelle Calvo-Lorenzo, Chief Animal Welfare Officer with Elanco, provides deep insights into the complexities of raising cattle in an increasingly demanding agricultural landscape. With steer and heifer carcass weights rising significantly, producers face unique challenges in maintaining animal health and mobility. Dr. Lorenzo emphasizes that while increased weight can represent production efficiency, it also pushes the biological limits of cattle. The ability of animals to move, access feed and water, and remain healthy becomes increasingly critical as their weight increases. Weather extremes present another significant challenge for cattle producers. Ruminants struggle with heat dissipation and temperature regulation, making them vulnerable to environmental stressors. Dr. Lorenzo highlights the importance of developing standard operating procedures that help cattle cope with temperature fluctuations while maintaining their overall welfare. Elanco's Cattle Mobility Assessment Program offers a scientific approach to evaluating animal movement and health. Using third-party observers, the program provides unbiased data collection at feedyards and packing plants, helping producers understand potential mobility issues before they become critical problems. Technology will play an increasingly important role in animal welfare, but Dr. Lorenzo cautions that human expertise cannot be completely replaced. The future of cattle management lies in combining technological innovations with the nuanced understanding of experienced animal caretakers. The core message remains consistent: animal welfare is not just an emotional consideration but a scientific approach that directly correlates with operational efficiency. By focusing on low-stress handling, careful observation, and proactive management, producers can optimize both animal health and economic outcomes. Ultimately, the podcast underscores the ongoing commitment of agricultural professionals to sustainable, ethical, and efficient livestock production.

For previous episodes of the American Cattlemen Podcast, please visit:  www.americancattlemen.com.

American Cattlemen Podcast is Sponsored By:

Rawhide Portable Corrals  

Lewis Cattle Oiler 

Udder Tech, Inc.