DCHA Webinar Explores Calf Behavior Monitoring Technology

The Dairy Calf & Heifer Association (DCHA) hosted a webinar on October 21, 2024, titled "Calf Behavior Monitoring 101." Jennifer Wilson, a veterinarian from Merck Animal Health, led the session, which provided an overview of how behavior-based monitoring technology can support calf health management from birth through the heifer development period.

Wilson, who graduated from Washington State University with a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree in 2012, has extensive experience in calf health management. She previously worked as a staff veterinarian for a large calf ranch and dairy production system before joining Merck Animal Health in 2024. In her current role, she assists customers in transitioning from traditional dairy management to using dairy monitoring technology.

The webinar covered how behavior data can be used to manage individual animal health and provided practical insights on evaluating and managing young calf production systems. Participants learned how to use this data to improve heifer-rearing systems. The event was approved for one Registry of Approved Continuing Education (RACE) credit for veterinarians, though only DCHA members can earn the credit.

DCHA members who could not attend the live webinar can access it through the DCHA’s online Member Center after November 4. For more information about future webinars, individuals can email Sue Schatz, DCHA member services director, or follow DCHA on social media.