The term preconditioning (PC) is generally accepted as a way to adequately prepare a calf for a successful feedlot experience. The details of various preconditioning programs have been annotated elsewhere. In all cases, calves are vaccinated for viral respiratory diseases and 7-8 clostridial organisms, dewormed, treated for lice/grubs, bulls are castrated and horned calves are dehorned. In most programs calves are weaned for 30-plus days and calves are trained to eat from a bunk and drink from a fountain/tank. Many PC programs encompass a beef quality assurance – commonly known as BQA – component.