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Questions from ALCA members.

QUESTION:
New member Peter Fahey, Waikanae, North Island, New Zealand, who has farmed Galloways which have to be free of the Alpha mannosidosis gene for registration, asks "Do Australian Lowlines carry the Alpha mannosidosis gene?"

ANSWER:
Australian Lowlines have not been known to have the gene and, are not required to be tested. (Some Lowlines that Peter purchased were tested and tested negative to the gene.)

EXPLANATION
from Chris Cricket B.V.Sc. Veterinarian, Cambridge New Zealand:
Alpha Mannosidosis is a rare hereditary disease found in
Galloway, Murray Grey and Angus cattle. Both parents need to carry the gene
for the calf to develop the disease. A calf with one gene from one parent will be a carrier of alpha mannosidosis and will appear clinically normal. A calf with an alpha mannosidosis gene from each parent will be clinically affected. If so some will be aborted during pregnancy. If born they will have difficulty walking, have head tremors, are aggressive and fail to grow. Most will die shortly after birth. Tail hair samples can be tested for the gene by Catapult Genetics.


QUESTION:
From Paul Phillips of the new stud, Salisbury Park at Blanket, NSW.

"When washing and preparing my cattle, how long should my halter be tied?"

ANSWER:
When working on your cattle it is best to tie them short. This will stop the animal from being able to swing around as much, making it both safer for the handler and more settling for the animal. You should also make sure that your work area is clear of things that could be tripped over if you need to move away in a hurry. Do not leave cattle combs on the ground. Put them in your back pocket. If trodden on they could send your animal lame.