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animal performance . The Richards also use a variety of technologies , including computer-based systems to track cattle , feed ingredient inventory , animal health records , and pairing cattle inventory with hedges .
Customer service is a critical component to the operation ’ s business model . In addition to feeding cattle , of which a large percentage belong to other owners , the Richards provide additional services to help their customers succeed . The couple has found being customer focused and adding additional services keeps their customer base coming back .
“ In our area , there is a competitive marketplace for feeding cattle , so we must be very customer oriented ,” Brandi said . “ We have to do all we can to set ourselves apart .”
In addition to customer satisfaction and retention , maintaining skilled employees is a priority for Diamond Cattle Feeders . The operation empowers employees , provides training and continuing education , and gives them the information they need to succeed . Their consultants help to train new employees by providing detailed information about how feeding times and accuracy of mixing rations can affect performance and how the use of supplements and additives maximizes efficiencies . Many employees have been with the business for more than 20 years . That longevity also adds to the vitality of the community , with feedyards and employees contributing to their local economy .
While the Richards ’ goal is to keep growing , their growth is very organic , building pens as budget allows and thoughtfully planning for the future . The operation started as an 8,000 head feedyard in 2003 and has more than doubled its capacity . In the end , technology has played a key role in the Richards ’ success . The couple focuses on key technologies to maximize returns
L to R : Madalyn , Brandi , Joe , and Lucy Richards
and use inputs efficiently .
“ We ’ ve seen the most growth because of advancements in technologies and using them to the best of our ability ,” Brandi explained . “ We produce a great product , and it is vital to bring it to market in a cost-effective way .”
Both MAC Cattle Company and Diamond Cattle Feeders are shaping the feedyard sector of the cattle industry to be more viable , and they ’ ve adapted to changing consumer and producer demands to ensure they remain efficient and sustainable partners within the supply chain .
Diamond Cattle Feeders consults nutritionists and veterinarians for the best cattle health practices .
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A VACCINE AND AN ANTIBIOTIC ?
Vaccines and antibiotics are types of animal health products cattle producers use to keep their herd healthy . It is important to work within the veterinarian-client-patient relationship ( VCPR ) to understand how and when to use these products effectively . Each operation will have different needs for vaccines and antibiotics , so building a customized plan with a veterinarian is important .
Vaccines are products that stimulate the body ’ s immune system to protect against diseases . They are an important part of a herd health program for prevention of common diseases such as respiratory or clostridial disease , among others . Vaccinating calves and adult cattle at strategic times throughout the year primes their immune systems and allows the immune response to protect from future exposure . Selection of route of administration ( subcutaneous , intranasal , in the muscle ) varies by product label and can be another strategy to discuss with your veterinarian .
Antibiotics are medicines used to fight bacterial infection by killing the bacteria or preventing them from multiplying . These can be used to treat , prevent or control infections . Judicious use of antibiotics starts with correctly diagnosing a problem and choosing the correct product , if it is even necessary . There are many classes of antibiotics veterinarians can advise and prescribe for cattle health . Pay attention to withdrawal times for all animal health products and keep accurate records to ensure no residue violations occur .
The beef industry continues to produce safe , high-quality products while adhering to these Beef Quality Assurance principles . Judicious use of antibiotics and animal health products are the foundation of any treatment plan and starts with correctly diagnosing a problem and choosing the correct product .
If you have a question you ’ d like answered by the NCBA team , submit it to producered @ beef . org .
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