Over the next few weeks farmers’ attention will change to managing stock indoors. A smooth change is critical and attention to detail over the next few months can reap numerous benefits. Beef and sheep farmers across the country need to be very conscious of the increased fluke risk as a result of a wet autumn and summer in some places. Every farm needs a strategy and the local vet should be consulted in formulating this dosing plan. Animal health is of critical importance if stock are to reach their potential over the winter months.

Pneumonia also poses a risk where ventilation in sheds is poor. An outbreak of pneumonia can have serious consequences, not just in deaths but also in sub-optimal thrive later in life.

In this Focus supplement, we feature some important indoor management issues and considerations that should be taken into account over the coming months. Our Journal Vet profiles management strategies for liver and rumen fluke for cattle and sheep farms during the winter months. Darren Carty looks at lying space in sheds and in a year where straw is somewhat scarce, he looks at ways of reducing usage and alternatives.

Ciarán Lenehan looks at the science behind ventilating sheds and profiles a BETTER farm case study that had ventilation issues which led to pneumonia problems. Aidan Brennan compares different cubicle bedding materials for dairy cows this winter, and I have some advice on preparing for calving in winter.