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...
Avoid these (costly) mistakes
After 40 years in the industry, Retired CentralStar Consultant, Julie Ainsworth shares a few key lessons that routinely emerge and still exist as opportunities on dairies today.
How To Collect a Blood Sample for Cattle Testing
Supplies Needed: Vacutainer® Vial Double-sided needle Needle holder Be sure to check which type of vial is required for your desired test type. Pregnancy Johne’s Leukosis BVD Neospora A1/A2 AntelBio™ STRATA-G™ BLV PCR Pregnancy Johne’s Leukosis BVD Neospora Step 1:...
New Transfer of Passive Immunity Standard
There has been a long-standing definition of successful transfer of passive immunity, stated as 10 grams of IgG per liter of serum, 24-36 hours post colostrum feeding. The United States Department of Agriculture has raised the standard.
Prioritize, Execute, Repeat
The progress made in reproductive performance on dairies is truly impressive. Today, it’s more commonplace to find herds with pregnancy rates over 30%.
Mastitis PCR Frequently Asked Questions
What is PCR? Polymerase chain reaction is an advanced laboratory technique that amplifies DNA so it can be detected even when present in very, very small quantities. It is the same technique used to investigate crime scenes. How does PCR determine how much DNA is...
How many heifers should you raise?
The goal of reproduction has shifted from creating a replacement, to creating a fresh cow; the calf, or many of them, are simply the byproduct.