Shaping the Future of Livestock Care

Crazy Mountain Veterinary Service (CMVS), founded by Dr. Katie Rein in 2007, has long been the go-to veterinary clinic for Meagher County’s ranching community and beyond. What began as a mobile large-animal service has since expanded to full-service clinics in both White Sulphur Springs and Harlowton, providing essential care for local beef producers, equine and ovine herds, and small animals. Known for its dedication to livestock and the people who raise them, CMVS has become a beloved part of the community through its scholarship program, summer golf tournament, and other local events. With deep roots in Meagher County, CMVS continues to uphold its commitment to the health and success of the area’s ranching families.

This year, CMVS, in partnership with Montana State University Extension, has launched a survey to research the use of antibiotics in Montana’s livestock operations. The goal is to collect data that will help livestock producers make informed decisions when treating common animal diseases. The survey is open to all Montana livestock producers, whether they raise cattle, sheep, horses, or other animals, and it takes less than five minutes to complete.

The livestock sector is encountering increasing hurdles concerning the use of antibiotics due to health concerns and evolving regulations. A significant challenge revolves around resistance caused by the incorrect administration of antibiotics, which results in bacteria developing resistance to treatment and potentially transferring to humans via meat consumption or contact with animals and the environment. To address this issue proactively, regulations such as the FDA's Veterinary Feed Directive have been implemented to restrict usage and mandate supervision for numerous treatments. These changes can be challenging for remote producers and increase the need for reliable record-keeping and accessible veterinary care.

Additionally, the increasing consumer preference for antibiotic-free meat has prompted many producers to focus on biosecurity measures, vaccination programs, and improved nutrition to control diseases without relying heavily on antibiotics. Nevertheless, the availability of substitutes is often restricted or proves ineffective, which is why initiatives such as the survey and workshops conducted by CMVS play a vital role in assisting producers in making informed decisions regarding disease management and sustainable antibiotic usage.

Survey questions address various aspects of livestock management, including calving or lambing schedules, record-keeping practices, and specific conditions for which antibiotics are administered. The data gathered will be used, along with other studies, to create revised recommendations on antibiotic use that fit the specific needs of Montana ranchers. These new guidelines will be introduced through workshops held by CMVS across Montana following the completion of the survey analysis. These workshops will focus on sharing insights and updated treatment plans for livestock illnesses, aiding producers in making informed and practical choices for their herds.

Interested producers can access the survey online at https://www.montana.edu/socialdata/currentsurveys.htmlby selecting “Montana Producer Antibiotic Survey.” With this initiative, Crazy Mountain Veterinary Service continues to demonstrate its commitment to Montana’s livestock industry, helping to ensure the health and welfare of animals and the success of ranchers in Meagher County and across the state.