Do you feel like you’re in the dark on whether your herd could be at risk for the devastating reproductive disease trichomoniasis? If you do, fear no more; take our self-assessment to identify if you are. Simply answer ‘yes’ or ‘no’ to the following six questions:

1. Has trichomoniasis been diagnosed in your area?
2. Do you utilize open-range grazing?
3. Do you purchase mature bulls for breeding purposes?
4. Are breeding bulls purchased for your herd without knowledge of their health status?
5. Is an extended breeding season used?
6. Do you vaccinate for trichomoniasis? 

If you answered ‘yes’ to any of one through five, or ‘no’ to question six, your herd is currently in danger of contracting trichomoniasis. According to Boehringer Ingelheim Vetmedica, Inc. Professional Services Veterinarian Dr. Travis Van Anne, here’s why you should be concerned.

Q: Has trichomoniasis been diagnosed in your area?

“Because no fence is cattle-proof and cattle movement from farm to farm occurs, detection of trichomoniasis in your region is a serious issue. Oftentimes, the venereal disease is spread to new herds when infected bulls or cows travel across pasture borders or are sold regionally. The disease is then introduced through sexual contact.” 

Q: Do you utilize open-range grazing?

“While open-range grazing may be an excellent asset of herds in your area, it increases the risk of unknowingly contracting trichomoniasis due to animals roaming outside of their grazing area and into other herds. Stay in touch with neighbors to learn if trichomoniasis has been identified or tested for in their herds. In the same way, be a good neighbor yourself and talk to your local veterinarian about testing your herd for trichomoniasis very soon.“

Q: Do you purchase mature bulls for breeding purposes?