This calving season, Farmer’s Business Network (FBN) has released a new resource to help cattle producers care for their herds. The guide, titled “Best Practices for Assisting Cows During Calving,” is available as a free download and offers advice on supporting pregnant cows and heifers.
The guide covers topics such as gathering the right supplies and equipment needed during calving, including head snares, obstetrical sleeves, and other products that may assist with challenging births. It also provides information about FBN’s all-in-one Calving Kit, which contains a range of recommended items for producers.
Farmers are advised on when to intervene in calving situations and when it is necessary to call a veterinarian, including recognizing signs that may require emergency procedures like c-sections. The publication addresses treatments for cows experiencing difficult labor (dystocia), highlighting animal health products useful for managing uterine infections, dehydration, and pain.
Additional sections focus on preventing common diseases such as scours and respiratory issues, ensuring proper nutrition to support colostrum production, and maintaining clean facilities to promote herd health. The guide includes product lists to help farmers prepare for the season.
According to the company: “Get the key calving products and animal health supplies you need for your operation by purchasing online anytime from FBN. Your order will be delivered directly to your farm at a time that’s convenient for your schedule so you can focus on your top priority: running your operation.”
FBN Direct’s offerings are only available in states where the company is licensed and where products are registered for sale or use. Farmers are encouraged to consult veterinarians before making treatment decisions. All recommendations provided by FBN are intended solely as informational resources; they do not replace professional advice or reading product labels.
Product prices listed in the release include $10.75 for an Ape Band-A-Sleeve Blue 35″ OB sleeve from Agri-Pro Enterprises of Iowa Inc., $74.99 (a 17% savings from $89.99) for the FBN Calving Kit, $9.50–$11.75 for OB chains from Ideal Instruments (a Neogen Company) and Neogen Corporation respectively, $9.60 for an OB handle, $11.82 for VetOne OB lube, $100.65 for a 125 mL stomach pump from Ideal Instruments (a Neogen Company), and $61.59 for a large PVC stomach tube from Jorgensen Laboratories Inc.
FBN reminds users that its recommendations should not substitute consulting with professionals: “All product recommendations and other information provided is for informational purposes only… Neither Farmer’s Business Network Inc. nor any of its affiliates makes any representations or warranties… as to the accuracy or completeness of the statements or any information contained in the material and any liability therefore is expressly disclaimed.”
The company also encourages producers to check local regulations regarding product registration before purchase.