Pinkeye with Dr. Brent Meyer

"Doc Talk" is back with a focus on pink eye, a common and costly issue in the beef industry. Dr. Brent Meyer, a seasoned veterinarian and national expert in beef cattle medicine, joins the show to shed light on this pervasive problem. Pink eye, caused by various organisms including Moraxella bovis and Moraxella bovoculi, results in significant losses for the industry, both in terms of performance and market value.

Dr. Meyer emphasizes the importance of understanding the biology of pink eye and its transmission dynamics. Vaccination plays a pivotal role in prevention, but timing is critical to ensure optimal immune response. With vaccines primarily targeting Moraxella bovis, producers must adhere to strict timelines to bolster immunity before the peak of fly season.

Treatment options, including antimicrobial agents like tetracyclines and Tobramycin, are discussed alongside practical approaches such as eye patching and shading to aid recovery. Early intervention is key, as delayed treatment can lead to severe complications and widespread outbreaks within herds.

Prevention strategies extend beyond vaccination and treatment. Controlling fly populations, managing pasture conditions to minimize corneal damage, and addressing internal parasite burdens are essential components of a comprehensive approach to pink eye management.

Dr. Meyer underscores the importance of environmental factors, such as UV exposure, pollen, and tail flicking by cows, in exacerbating pink eye risk. By implementing proactive measures, producers can mitigate the impact of this costly disease and safeguard the health and productivity of their cattle.

"Doc Talk" continues to be a valuable resource for ranchers, providing expert insights and practical advice to address pressing issues in beef cattle management.