Calfblog.com

In Memory of Dr. Robert “Bob” James
It is with great sadness that we share the news of the sudden passing of Dr. Robert “Bob” James on August 21, 2025.

Dr. Bob James was not only an internationally recognized expert in calf rearing, but also a passionate teacher, mentor, and bridge-builder between research and practice. As Professor of Dairy Science at Virginia Tech University, he shaped generations of students and shared his expertise far beyond the academic world. His lifelong mission was to close the gap between scientific research and daily on-farm management – always for the benefit of both calves and the people caring for them.

Over the past four years, we had the privilege of working closely with him through the Calf Blog. Through his vision and dedication, Dr. James shaped calfblog.com into a trusted source of knowledge and practical guidance for dairy farmers and advisors around the world. His passion for calf development, his relentless curiosity, and his warm sense of humor made every collaboration truly special.

Dr. Bob was a man who left a lasting impression not only through his knowledge, but also through his kindness and humanity. We are deeply grateful for the time we shared with him, for the many conversations, and for the inspiration he gave us.
Our heartfelt condolences go out to his family and loved ones.

As THE Calf Blogger, he built a platform that reflected his unique ability to combine science, experience, and practical advice. With his passing, the Calf Blog has lost its founder and voice. In the coming months, we will carefully consider how to continue this important work in the future. For now, we honor Dr. James’s legacy and remain grateful for the wealth of knowledge he has shared with all of us.

🐄 Fresh content alert!
We’ve added brand-new articles to our CalfBlog — covering everything from calf nutrition and feeding plans to autofeeder systems and early-life care.

Whether you’re in calf management or just passionate about modern dairy farming — it’s worth a read!

🔗 Link in bio
📲 Follow us on LinkedIn for more insights and updates!

🐄 CalfBlog.com is proud to support Producer Day at the upcoming Smart Calf Rearing Conference — a must-attend event for progressive dairy producers.

We’re especially excited to see Robert James—a trusted voice in calf management—on the speaker lineup. His expertise has shaped modern dairy practices around the world.

📌 At Producer Day, you’ll get:

🔹 Proven, on-farm strategies

🔹 Insights from leading producers & scientists

🔹 A chance to learn directly from Dr. Bob James and more!

Explore the full agenda: https://smart-calf-rearing.com/producerday/

🐄 Want to give your calves the best start in life? 🎧
Headblogger Bob James breaks it down on the Hoard’s Dairyman Podcast! From feeding tech to health tips—it’s all here.
👂 Tap the link in bio to listen!

Can beef cattle teach us to be more successful in raising dairy calves. #2 in a series in Progressive Dairy Calving and newborn management.

www.agproud.com

🔍 Management Tip: The Little Things Are the Big Things! 🐮💡
🚀 Don’t miss the latest tip from Robert James!
How quickly do your calves adjust to the feeder? ⏳ The key isn’t age—it’s appetite! Too often, we wait too long to introduce them, unintentionally reinforcing a twice-a-day feeding expectation.

✅ Best practice:
✔️ Give their afternoon bottle, then place them in the group pen.
✔️ Let pen mates show them the way overnight.
✔️ After morning cleaning, introduce them to the nipple—they’ll be hungrier and more eager to nurse!

📊 Monitor feeding behavior in the cloud to identify calves that need extra support. If they’re drinking well, no need to intervene! Link in Bio.

✨ Have you seen our other management tips yet? Check them out!

Is it time to reconsider a calf autofeeder? The increased value of calves provide an incentive for investment in a system for managing your calves.

Calf Autofeeder Management: Start the day right. The calf autofeeder system provides “opportunities” to better manage one’s calf proactively through the availability and use of data. Take a few minutes to start each day by reviewing a few key areas.

Are you considering an autofeeder. Be prepared. Plan for success!

Considering a calf autofeeder system? Plan for success! - CalfBlog Group housing systems for calves are gaining rapid acceptance supported by research and experiences of successful dairy producers. However, success is dependent upon some serious advance planning and knowledge of the essentials for achieving success. Read more...

Take a look at our most frequently asked questions.
Do you have any other questions? Ask them in the comments or send us a private message. Bob James will be happy to answer them.

And don’t forget to check out our website. 🐮🥰

https://calfblog.foerster-technik.com/faq/

Take a look at our most frequently asked questions.
Do you have any other questions? Ask them in the comments or send us a private message. Bob James will be happy to answer them.

And don’t forget to check out our website. 🐮🥰

https://calfblog.foerster-technik.com/faq/