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The ongoing University of Missouri field evaluation of the ATR Thrive Get-Go™ calf program is showing promising real-world results for calf growth, efficiency, and consistency—all without changing a standard feeding program.

Calves receiving Get-Go™ products (FM at first feeding, MR+ in milk replacer, and Revive when needed) outperformed those on a traditional program. Even though treatment calves started slightly lighter and received lower-quality colostrum, they achieved better passive transfer—suggesting they were able to use existing colostrum immunity more effectively without added IgG.

From a performance standpoint, Get-Go™ calves gained about 9–10% more per day, finished roughly 6 pounds heavier at weaning, and showed significantly more uniform growth across the group. Importantly, this improved performance came without increased feed intake, pointing to better feed efficiency rather than higher input costs.

Economically, the added cost of the program is largely offset by the additional weight gain alone, with potential upside from improved health and long-term performance.

Overall, the data suggests that the Get-Go™ program helps calves get more out of what they’re already fed—leading to stronger starts, more consistent growth, and better returns under practical farm conditions.

With temperatures dropping and the onset of winter, freezing conditions emerge and the maintenance energy needs of the calf increases. In cold temperatures the calf will be using so much energy and body reserves to keep warm that it will not gain weight and will be more susceptible to disease. How can you best combat the winter effects?

Providing newborn animals with adequate colostrum within 12 hours of birth is vital. The more colostrum newborns can absorb, the better off their digestive and immune systems will be. But the window for maximizing these benefits for lifetime successes closes so fast.

When raising future dairy heifers, or raising bull calves for beef from the dairy industry, the primary goal is maximizing pre-weaning daily weight gains. The growth needs of the pre-weaned infant are well researched and understood. The industry is stronger on this element (growth) than it on the deficiency needs, so this article might help balance out our understanding of both.