Biosecurity is one of the most effective yet often overlooked pillars of calf health and productivity. A new science-based digital platform developed in collaboration with Biocheck.Gent, the internationally recognised biosecurity company that originated from Ghent University, brings a structured, evidence-driven approach to managing biosecurity on farms. It helps veterinarians, advisors, and producers to assess, monitor and continuously improve preventive measures across calf-rearing systems.
Calf Secure is the first platform of its kind to focus specifically on youngstock management. Accessible either offline or online and via a mobile application or desktop, it uses a comprehensive questionnaire that evaluates both external biosecurity, such as:
- animal introductions
- supply movements
- visitor control
- internal biosecurity including colostrum and milk management
- hygiene
- calf movement routines
Once completed, the system generates a standardised farm-specific biosecurity score segmented by risk area, which can be tracked over time and benchmarked against regional, national and international data. The resulting report highlights priority areas for improvement and provides clear, practical recommendations. By converting on-farm practices into measurable data, it turns biosecurity from a general concept into an actionable management tool.
Why this matters
The first weeks of life a crucial for long-term health and performance. Inadequate biosecurity allows pathogens to enter and spread, increasing the risk of disease, growth losses and antimicrobial use. Until now, calf-specific assessments have often relied on fragmented tools or adapted systems from other species.
This new platform fills that gap by offering a consistent, science-based framework that supports field advisors and farmers in designing effective, customised control measures. It also provides documentation that can be used for audits, advisory programmes and quality assurance schemes. By aligning management practices with measurable outcomes, it supports a more preventive and responsible approach to calf health.
A partnership for progress
This initiative combines Biocheck.Gent's validated methodology with Huvepharma's practical field experience in calf health. This collaboration ensures that the tool is both scientifically robust and directly applicable in everyday farm conditions. Importantly, it is not designed for internal monitoring but as a field solution to empower animal health professionals and producers.
Part of a broader vision
The platform is integrated into Calf Care 360, Huvepharma's holistic framework supporting every step of early-life management. From colostrum handling and nutrition to pathogen control and hygiene, Calf Care 360 promotes sustainable production, responsible antimicrobial stewardship and improved animal welfare: ensuring each calf gets the best possible start.
