Q. I have seen your tupping Tubby advertised. What makes it different from other tupping buckets on the market?

A. One of the main differences is that, like all Tubbys, they are not based on molasses. This leads to a more regulated and controlled drip feed method of intake and the concentration of nutrients can therefore be higher in the tub. There are also protected sources of energy included which get to work uninhibited which improves performance and can also aid absorption of the ingredients. The rule of thumb is that an animal will consume a Tubby through need and not greed. One tub TUP should be required for every 25 ewes.

Q. How can we supplement our silage this year without feed costs going through the roof?

A. The key word is balance. Firstly you need to balance feed cost v performance. Low input - low output may not be what is wanted, but medium input - high output probably is. To achieve this, the second consideration is that each individual animal’s ration needs to be balanced. The only way to do this is to bridge the likely protein, energy and mineral shortfall by incorporating a free access product into the ration. We have a complete spectrum of molasses liquid feeds to meet needs this winter and with our new feeding equipment, labour input can range from low to non existent.

Q. We still have some lambs that are struggling to finish. Have you anything to help?

A. Our Tub LF (Lamb Finisher) has enhanced levels of cobalt and Vitamin B12 which will promote a better and faster finish. Distribute one tub per 25 lambs and see the difference. Also new this year is our specific lamb drench so if handling is not an issue, 10ml of Ex-Sel Weaning Drench will make a big difference.

Q. Our cell count is starting to creep up again. Is there anything we can do to the feed to help?

A. Only if it is a nutritional based problem. High SCC’s can result due to problems such as injury or illness as white blood cells are released by the body to fight infection. If cows are free from these problems, use SEL-COUNT tablets in the drinking trough. These will make the water a rich source of two elements which will aid udder tissue repair, help replenish the teat keratin lining and maintain a healthy and responsive immune system. One pod of tablets will last 25 cows for seven days.

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DENIS BRINICOMBE GROUP
Registered Office: Fordton Industrial Estate, Crediton, Devon, UK EX17 3BZ
tel: 01363 775 115 | fax: 01363 772 114 | enquiries@brinicombe.co.uk
Company Number: 4309124 | VAT Registration Number: UK 785 4166 95