W. Mark Hilton

, Purdue University

W. Mark Hilton, DVM, is a clinical associate professor of beef production medicine in the Purdue University School of Veterinary Medicine, West Lafayette, IN.

Posts by W. Mark Hilton

in Vet's Opinion Feb. 29, 2012

Four Steps Before You Buy That Bull

Bull purchases represent a significant investment in a beef herd. Whether that investment results in a “nest egg” or a “goose egg” depends highly on....More
in Vet's Opinion Nov. 25, 2011

It’s Time To Be Hay-Smart

There is no doubt that nutrition is one of the keys to health. A pregnant cow that receives proper nutrition mounts a stronger immune response in the....More
in Vet's Opinion Aug. 19, 2011

Extended Calving Season Limits Profitability

An extended calving season limits the ability to maximize profitability. To illustrate this point, I’ve created a “virtual herd.”....More
in Vet's Opinion Jun. 1, 2011

Take A Big Picture View Of Animal Health

While having many choices is generally seen as a good thing, too many choices can sometimes be overwhelming. For instance, there are 73 federally-....More
in Vet's Opinion Feb. 24, 2011

Calving Time Is Here; Be Ready To Assist

In general, our cows in the U.S. are low-maintenance creatures that take care of themselves. They calve unassisted and the calf nurses within an hour....More
in Vet's Opinion Nov. 23, 2010

Be Diligent On Genetic Defects When Buying Bulls

While pregnancy testing a group of cows for a client recently, he mentioned that his 2½-year-old herd bull was lame. On closer inspection, I saw the....More
in Vet's Opinion Sep. 8, 2010

Veterinarian Tips For Cattle Nutrition & Health

Since BEEF readers operate in a variety of climates, our No. 1 recommendation regarding winter nutrition is to contact your herd-health veterinarian....More
in Vet's Opinion Jul. 2, 2010

How To Add Value To Calves

Let’s look at some proven cost-management practices that add value to calves. Lot size. Studies show larger lots add value....More
in Vet's Opinion Mar. 1, 2010

Preventing Calf Diseases

Prevention of disease now can mean a much more successful year for your cattle business. Here are some keys to help ensure success....More
in Vet's Opinion Nov. 1, 2009

No silver bullet

I think I can speak for all the Vet's Opinion authors in saying that we enjoy feedback on our columns, particularly when a correspondent gives us more....More