UNIVERSITY PARK — A Penn State Extension resource that provides timely, animal-agriculture production information via telephone has expanded for 2025.

Designed by Extension’s Animal Systems unit primarily for those with limited or no internet access, the Animal Systems Hotline — available toll-free at 888-655-2407 — now features information on livestock production, in addition to the dairy and poultry advice offered previously.

By calling (888) 655-2407, producers and hobbyists can listen to messages — each typically three to five minutes long — with tips on dairy, poultry or livestock production and upcoming extension events.

Callers will hear Penn State Extension faculty, county-based educators and veterinarians address various topics, such as seasonal information, management best practices, animal health and disease, emerging industry issues, and important contacts and resources. The messages are updated weekly on Mondays.

Four hotline extensions currently are active: Ext. 1 offers a dairy message; Ext. 2 provides a poultry message; Ext. 3 covers livestock; and Ext. 4 enables callers to leave a message with questions for Penn State experts.