Types of Research

Small Scale Pilot Studies

Many technologies and strategies are initially tested using small scale pilot studies to determine if subsequent largescale commercial field trials are warranted. We have the ability to conduct replicated small pen “pilot” feedlot studies at four facilities in Canada and the United States. Two of these facilities also contain pens equipped with specialized feed intake and behavior monitoring systems, which allows for measurement of individual animal feed intake. We also have the ability to conduct small-scale level 2 containment projects at a facility in Canada and a variety of individual animal-based “pilot” studies at several commercial feedlot and calf grower operations in Canada and the United States.

Large Scale Commercial Field Trials

A unique feature of Feedlot Health research is our ability to conduct large scale studies in commercial feedlot and calf-grower operations in conjunction with normal production practices. This approach, developed by Feedlot Health over 35 years ago, allows us to test new ideas and technologies under the same conditions that occur in commercial feedlots and calf-grower operations. As production practices evolve, we continually adapt the large-scale commercial field trial model to conform to current production practices. We now conduct large-scale commercial field trials at more than 20 feedlot and calf-grower locations in Canada, the United States and Mexico.

Contract Research Projects

Feedlot Health works with pharmaceutical companies, feed manufacturers, and government agencies to conduct product safety and efficacy studies for the licensing of new veterinary pharmaceuticals or new indications for existing pharmaceuticals. We can also work with companies to perform “Phase IV” validations and comparisons of technologies for products currently licensed and available for use in cattle. To date, we have been involved in over 200 contract research projects.

Publicly Funded Research

Feedlot Health has conducted over 30 publicly funded research projects covering a range of topics from new technology assessments to antimicrobial use and resistance monitoring. These projects typically come in the form of collaborative efforts conducted in partnership with academic institutions, independent research firms, and government agencies.