
What the genetic base change and NM$ revisions mean to you
Every five years, the Council on Dairy Cattle Breeding (CDCB) updates the genetic base to reflect the ongoing progress in dairy genetics. This ensures predicted transmitting abilities (PTAs) remain relevant by comparing today’s animals to a more current reference...
How to Collect a Milk Sample for Diagnostic Testing Dairy Cattle
CentralStar can conveniently test dairy cattle milk for A1/A2 status, Bovine Leukosis (BLV), Bovine Viral Diarrhea (BVD), Johne’s Disease, Mastitis, and Pregnancy. Follow these steps to ensure proper sample collection and visit the Lab Services page on our website for...
Considering Cow Monitoring Solutions? Discover the Power of Ear Temperature
The world of dairy farming is ever evolving, and more and more – and increasingly smarter – tools are available to add to the on-farm toolbox. For many dairy businesses, it’s no longer a matter of if they’re interested in using innovative technology; it’s become about...
Mycotoxin Binders: Reducing Nutrient Availability and Neglecting Mycotoxins
Mycotoxin binders (MTB) work by chemical interactions involving cation exchange capacity with various types of bonds and by their physical structure serving as a “net” to in essence “trap” mycotoxin molecules. The bonding and structural properties of traditional MTB...
Is it time to change course on your heifer inventory?
You’ve likely seen the headlines about shrinking heifer numbers around the U.S. Herds right-sizing heifer inventories, dairy expansions, and the trend to buy instead of raise replacement heifers continues to push replacement values higher and higher. If you’re like...
What is the best way to A2 test my dairy animals?
So, you are interested in knowing the A1/A2 status of your cows but are confused about which test is best. The CentralStar A1/A2 genotype test is validated for use on individual animals and can be performed on blood, tissue, or milk; however, determining which method...
Lameness: Challenge conventional thinking
Conventional thinking is considered tried and true, going unquestioned; but is that always the best approach? Through National Animal Health Monitoring¹, we know lameness is among one of the top-five reasons dairy cows leave the herd. Obviously, management practices...