1. The Cost of Animal Health
Lesson 1

2. Examples of Careers in Animal Health
Animal Health 1. TM A
Examples of Careers in Animal Health
Laboratory technical support
Research scientist
Veterinarian
Veterinarian assistant
Teaching
Feed salesman
Nutritionist
Product development
Pharmaceutical sales
Feedlot manager
USDA inspector
Breeding manager
Supply dealer
Microbiologist
Geneticist
Biochemist
Ag Journalist
Farmer/rancher
Horseshoeing

3. Costs of Animal Health—Sheep
Animal Health 1. TM B
On average, one ewe costs $8.01 in ve. bills, drugs and related supplies per year.
On average, one lamb costs $.05 per pound per year in vet bills, drugs and related supplies.
Source: Saskatchewan Agriculture, Food, and Rural Revitalization website.

4. Costs of Animal Health—Cattle
Animal Health 1. TM C
Costs of Animal Health—Cattle
1. On average, one cow will require $17 of vet bills, drugs and related supplies per year.
2. Calves on average will require $4.67 per cwt. (100 pounds) in vet bills, drugs and related supplies.
Sources: Montana State University Animal Science Website and

5. Break-even Costs per head (on average)
Animal Health 1. TM D
Break-even Costs per head (on average)
1. Break-even refers to the amount of money you must receive from the offspring to equal the money you have put into both the parents and the offspring, including feed, labor, medical supplies, etc.
2. Beef break-even cost is $75 per cwt.
3. Hog break-even cost is $45 per cwt.
4. Feeder lamb break-even price is $91 per cwt.

6. Organic Food Production
What does the term “organically grown food” mean?
“Organically grown food” refers to food that is grown without the use of chemical fertilizers or pesticides.
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7. Organic Food Production
2. Why has organic production become popular?
2. Organic food is popular because there is a niche, or specialized market for people who don’t feel comfortable with conventional methods of food production.
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8. Organic Food Production
3. What are some concerns people have with traditional meat production?
People are worried about the use of growth hormones and feed additives as well as the safety of their food.
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9. Organic Food Production
4. List some substances that are not allowed with organic animal production.
4. Non-organic feedstuff, feed containing man-made materials, feed containing antibiotics, hormones, drugs, or synthetic growth promoters, feeding of manure, and feed that contains animal by-products for ruminants.
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10. Organic Food Production
5. What are three criticisms of organic food production?
a. They are more expensive
Traditionally they have been poorer quality
There has been no conclusive evidence that organic foods are safer or more nutritious (Herren, p 509)
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11. Organic Food Production
6. How does organic production change common practices for livestock producers?
a. Provide organic (natural) feed
Exclude growth hormones
Permit “natural” living conditions
Use preventative practices such as vaccines, probiotics, and quarantine new animals
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12. Organic Food Production
7. What are the organic alternatives to antibiotics and treatments?
7. There are many suggested alternatives, which include aspirin, garlic, homeopathic remedies, probiotic supplements to stimulate digestive system, and pneumonia vaccines. Approved substances vary state by state. (source:
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