Early weaning trials in Ohio, Illinois, and Michigan have shown the practice to be far more beneficial than detrimental. The feed efficiency and conversion of an early-weaned calf is at the most economical level. Some of the weaning trials conducted in West Virginia with Southern States Cooperative have yielded average daily gains in steers of better than 3 pounds per day for 30 days. Research at Virginia Tech yielded similar results with calves weaned on pasture and grain versus calves weaned on hay and grain producing ADGs of 2.36 and 2.12 respectively. Some preliminary data have shown that early-weaned calves also have heavier carcasses and were more efficient with a higher percent grading choice than conventionally weaned calves.
Many producers are reluctant to wean calves because they lack facilities or fear sick calves.
Weaning home-raised calves is far simpler in comparison to calves that have been assembled and transported from several sale barns. It takes the following to put together a successful preconditioning program with some of the associated cost involved. The health program is the key to being able to handle stress. The Quality Assurance Gold health program has been tested and proven to be successful in the feedlots. All calves should be pre-vaccinated at least 14 days prior to removal from the cows.