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Handling livestock can sometimes be stressful for both people and the animals. A lot depends on our attitude, methods, and our understanding of how an animal behaves.

March has been a profitable month for both cattle and hog producers, and rising beef and pork prices have helped packers record positive margins the past couple of weeks.

Chip Flory and Brian Grete discuss the risks involved with record live cattle and lean hog futures.

Arizona reports its first confirmed case of PEDV.

Believes markets have factored in a 7% to 10% decline in slaughter.

A $2 per cwt. decline in cash prices cut into cattle feeding margins last week while beef packing margins took a leap forward.

Beef and pork exports start 2014 above year-ago levels.

Text highlights from USDA's March 2014 World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates.

The 2014 forecast of total red meat and poultry production is lowered from last month

A total of 252 new cases of PEDV reported in the latest week.

Dramatic increases in propane costs have many pork producers wondering if it's more profitable to turn down the thermostat.

Due to the cold harsh winter and recent heavy rains and snow melt, livestock producers should keep a close watch on manure storage structures and pumping equipment.

Says PEDV has not "hit an excessive number of farms."

Included in the story are three videos Pro Farmer's Chip Flory took part in.

Through Feb. 27, hogs jumped 22% this year, the second-biggest gain among 24 raw materials in the Standard & Poor’s GSCI Spot Index.

Previous two weeks' data revised higher.

Cattle futures rose to a record as ranchers struggle to boost the U.S. herd from a 63-year low.

Says pork and beef are gaining due to concerns about bird flu.

Containment is key to treating the virus.

Total cases since start of outbreak rises to 3,528.

An agricultural bill that opponents warn would undermine Indiana residents' legal challenges against large livestock farms is moving closer to passage in the General Assembly.

Steady global economic growth to provide foundation for strong crop demand.

Does not pose threat to humans.

The 2014 forecast of total red meat and poultry production is lowered from last month as higher beef production is more than offset by lower pork, broiler, and turkey production.

Hof Haus, a family meat products company, is undergoing a major expansion in Chicago.

Meat and livestock groups upset that Congress opted in the new farm bill not to back off from mandatory country of origin labeling requirements are worried the issue could start a trade war with Canada and Mexico.

Farmers who raise and sell their meat locally have more control over their marketing decisions, and receive higher prices for their product than those selling to buyers outside their regions, says USDA.

Total red meat production for 2013 and 2014 is down from December estimates.

As 2014 sets up to be a profitable year for pork producers, constant environmental management, animal welfare pressures and looming federal regulations bring uncertainty to today’s modern production systems.

Michigan State University Extension reminds livestock farmers to take extra precautions with winter manure applications.

Canadian Swine Health Board says it will work with the industry to prevent the spread of the disease.

U.S. red meat exports for November were solid with beef sales setting a new value record with one month remaining in the year and pork exports posting their strongest month of 2013, according to statistics released by the USDA and compiled by the U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF).

Record kill weights for hogs created more product.

Bitter cold temperatures are on the way, and they will move the livestock cold stress index into the emergency category for a prolonged period.

Manure spills can occur during the storage, transportation and application of manure. Advanced planning can minimize the impacts of a manure-related emergency.

The state of Utah is pushing back against animal-welfare activists who contend a state law to prevent filming of agricultural operations is designed to silence them.

Lower pork and turkey production more than offset an increase in beef production; meanwhile, the forecast for milk production is raised as improving returns could support increased output per cow.

Legislation will allow veterinarians to legally carry and dispense controlled substances to protect the health and welfare of the nation's animals, ensure public safety, and safeguard the nation's food supply.

HumaneWatch.org analysis reveals the Humane Society of the U.S. gives only 1 percent of budget to local pet shelters.

2013 beef export 'value' already sets a year-end record.

Highlights of USDA's Weekly Export Sales Report.

From the Renewable Fuels Standard to risk management, it's time to get serious about developing a marketing strategy for this year.

This year is definitely one that’s going to require a plan that drives your marketing moves. In addition to structure, flexibility is key to capture a run up in prices along the way.

Hard freeze warnings are in effect for areas of Texas & Gulf Coast.

USDA says it's making permanent rules that allow schools to serve larger portions of lean meat and whole grains in school lunches.

Consumer Confidence Index also improves, which is good news for red meat demand.

Argentine rains are weighing on the market to start the week.

USDA made some major revisions to past data.

Total hog inventory expected to be near year-ago levels.

Brucellosis is no longer on the list of causes of abortion for cattle and is not the public health scourge that it once was, but it is still a worry for livestock producers.