Here's some irony for you. Dairy cattle, a source of calcium-rich milk, can have a problem with dangerously low calcium levels. The health issue is called hypocalcemia, and it can be a real threat to your dairy herd.

The folks at Boehringer Ingelheim Vetmedica have partnered with Garret Oetzel, a professor at the School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, to offer education on the issue.

The company is sponsoring Oetzel to conduct meetings in locations in Washington, Idaho and California. During the meetings, producers and veterinarians can learn about the risks associated with subclinical hypocalcemia, the health and economic impacts of the disease, and how to manage it. The meetings are free, but BIVI asks that producers and veterinarians register to reserve a spot. To do that, reach out to your local BIVI representative.

Here's a schedule of the upcoming meetings.

Dairy producer meetings
Jan. 11, noon: Walter Clore Wine and Culinary Center, Prosser, Wash.
Jan. 18, noon: Lola Bistro & Express, Hilmar, Calif.
Jan. 19, noon: La Piazza Ristorante Italiano, Tulare, Calif.

Dairy veterinarian and nutritionist meetings
Jan. 11, 6 p.m.: Walter Clore Wine and Culinary Center, Prosser, Wash.
Jan. 12, noon: Jakers Bar and Grill, Meridian, Idaho
Jan. 12, 6:30 p.m.: Canyon Crest Dining & Event Center, Twin Falls, Idaho
Jan. 18, 6 p.m.: Lola Bistro & Express, Hilmar, Calif/
Jan. 19, 6 p.m.: The Vintage Press Restaurante, Visalia, Calif.

Source: Boehringer Ingelheim Vetmedica