By ROWENA PLETT

Staff writer

At a cattlemen’s meeting Thursday in Lincolnville, veterinarian Dave Rethorst emphasized the importance of good cow nutrition in producing a calf that will remain healthy throughout its lifetime.

Known to many in the cattle industry as “Dr. Dave,” Rethorst has more than 40 years of veterinary experience. He has taught at Kansas State University’s school of veterinary medicine and is a featured speaker at many ag issues events. He will begin practicing at the Herington veterinary clinic in the next month or two.

“Weaning health starts at conception and carries through to the feed yard,” he said.

Fetal programming provides additional protein and trace minerals, which are crucial during the last three months of a cow’s pregnancy, Rethorst said. This can prevent many problems later on.

He concluded by noting that by providing for the health and well-being of their animals, cattle producers are providing wholesome food for consumers.

More than 80 people attended the meeting organized by Animal Health Center, Marion, and Tri-County Veterinary Clinic, Herington.

Kevin Shields and his cousin, Heath Shields, of Lincolnville were among those in attendance. They manage a 300-head cow-calf herd. “I learned a lot of stuff I forgot,” Kevin Shields said. “It was a good refresher.”