By Julie Hazelton
IRWIN Farm Supplies, based at Eglish near Dungannon, is Northern Ireland’s sole agent for the innovative range of out-door calf rearing systems from CalfOTel.
Manufactured by Dutch company VDK Products, the world-leading CalfOTel range boasts a product portfolio comprising of compact individual igloos, large group hutches, and the revolutionary hybrid unit.
The entire range has been designed with a key focus on hygiene, health and labour.
Alan Hazelton, from Irwin Farm Supplies, said: ”The CalfOTel range was launched at the RUAS Winter Fair in 2017, and since then we’ve witnessed an unprecedented demand from farmers striving to optimise calf comfort, health and performance.”
Fermanagh dairy farmers Leslie and Timothy Andrews purchased two of the CalfOTel hybrid hutches last year. This unique and practical outdoor housing concept gives farmers the flexibility of rearing calves individually or in small groups.
“Like many dairy farmers across the country we’re using sexed semen, and as a result we’ve more and more heifer calves on the farm,” explained Timothy, who runs a 180-cow commercial herd in the townland of Tattykeeran, near Tempo.
Calving all year round to maximise the efficiency of the farm’s three Lely Astronaut robots, the father and son team is rearing up to 120 heifer calves annually.
“We bought the CalfOTel hybrid hutches because a lack of housing was having an impact on calf health. Our calf rearing facilities were overcrowded, and we were experiencing an increase in the number of young calves with respiratory infections and scour.”
The two hybrid hutches are situated outside, adjacent to the calf shed. “They are a great job,” added Timothy. “Each unit accommodates four calves in individual pens, and they are healthy and thriving. We’ve noticed a big reduction in antibiotic usage to treat pneumonia and other infections.”
The newborn calves are kept in the hutches for two months until weaning. They are reared on powdered milk and also receive ad lib meal and water. “The hybrid hutch is bedded with straw, and is easily cleaned out. It’s very portable, simply lift the unit with the handler and move it.”
Suitable for calves from birth to weaning, the CalfOTel hybrid hutches are manufactured from fibreglass-reinforced polyester. The practical and compact design has no corners or joints, and features a smooth surface which is easy to clean and disinfect.
“The hybrid hutches provide shelter and adequate ventilation for the calves. The adjustable roof or flap can be raised and lowered, helping to protect calves from wind and rain, and control ventilation.
“The calves are happy and content, and are definitely benefitting from natural daylight and fresh air. They can socially interact with each other, and are less susceptible to infections,” added Timothy.
“Healthy youngstock is the foundation for the profitability of any livestock enterprise,” commented Alan Hazelton. The CalfOTel outdoor hutches provide cost-effective and instant housing options for farmers.
“The hybrid hutches are welfare-friendly, and provide a microclimate for calves. The system is designed to reduce stress and promote the development of a strong and healthy immune system.”
The CalfOTel hybrid unit measures L 450cm x W 227.5cm x H 189cm. It can be fitted with a variety of customisable accessories, including teat feeding buckets, bowls for water and concentrates, hay racks and partitionable fencing.
Cleverly designed, the unit is very durable and features removable internal partitions, allowing flexibility and a number of layout options. There is also enough headroom for an adult to stand upright inside.
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