Understanding Mycoplasma bovis mastitis in dairy cattle and why it’s a serious threat
You know the number, but it’s worth restating: a case of clinical mastitis in the first 30 days of lactation can cost you up to $444. While preventing mastitis is often the focus, how well do you truly understand the pathogens responsible for it? What are the real...
Reaching for Genetic Potential
Whatever happens to a calf day 1, week 1 or month 1 of its life determines if it will live up to its genetic potential. This statement is true for both replacement heifers with tremendous milking…
PCR Is a Game Changer for Mastitis Management
Midwest-based CentralStar Cooperative pioneered testing of dairy herd information (DHI) milk samples for the management of cow herd health and disease…
Understanding indexes takes the guesswork out of genetic selection
Aside from the obvious goal of generating a pregnancy, what else do you want from the genetics you buy? Are you looking to increase milk production, improve solids, reduce mastitis, better calving ease or fertility, make smaller cows, etc?
Diagnostic Testing Sampling & Shipping Guidelines
Sample Volumes Johne’s Fecal Test: 3 grams Johne’s Bulk Tank Milk: 50 ML A1/A2 or BVD Tissue: Ear Notch All other test types: 4 mL Sample Storage Milk: fresh, frozen, or preserved Feces: fresh only, do not freeze Tissue: fresh or frozen Blood: fresh only, do not...
You can make A2 milk, but should you?
by Todd Byrem, Ph.D. Director, AntelBio Judging by recent inquiries at NorthStar the story surrounding A2 milk must be reaching new heights. Questions such as; can we test our milk for A2, how can we transition our herd to A2 milk, and are there really beneficial...