Preventing and controlling the spread of Strep ag. mastitis in dairy herds
Mastitis is a costly and persistent issue for dairy producers, with clinical cases in early lactation leading to significant financial losses. While preventing mastitis remains a primary focus, there’s often less discussion about the specific pathogens behind the...
Sexed- and beef-semen strategy: Can my farm pull it off?
Author: Tom Brown, CentralStar Genetic and Reproductive Consultant Dairy producers often ask if their farms can maintain reproductive success while using a sexed- and beef-semen strategy. Given the current beef-on-dairy calf prices, this question has become a hot...
The long-term payoff of early-life calf-health practices
Author: Kelly Sporer, Ph.D., CentralStar Records Analysis Consultant The first day, week, and month of a calf's life are critical in determining their future productivity and health. Research has repeatedly shown when calves face health challenges early in life, there...
How to blood pregnancy test cattle
1. Plan for sample collection at least 28 days post-breeding – either by AI or based on the last date the bull was with the heifers/cows. 2. Gather sample collection supplies. These can be purchased online through CentralStar or the veterinarian or farm supply store....
Gut Check on Gut Health
Cows thrive on consistency, preferring the same reliable meal daily. However, adjusting to this steady diet can be challenging for the gut health of fresh cows. What can be done to help with this adjustment? Include a nutritional supplement that supports gut health...
Don’t overlook the label
Author: Adam Wood, CentralStar A.I. Specialist When it comes to protecting a newborn calf, every decision matters. That’s why checking the labels of the products you use is essential to ensure they deliver what your calf needs. Recently, during a visit to my local...
CentralStar largest National DHIA in the U.S.
Author: Kevin Haase, CentralStar Cooperative Director of DHI Services We recently discovered some very exciting news about CentralStar Cooperative; we have more cows enrolled and on test than any other National DHIA (NDHIA) organization. Becoming the largest DHI...