The breeding season is now underway in spring calving herds. AI is the main method used in dairy herds and is growing in sucklers. Results from fixed-time programmes have improved, giving conception rates over 60% in most cases.
These programmes are useful in dairy heifers that are not in the yard every day and in suckler herds where it is difficult to have the right stock bull for every cow.
However, caution needs to be exercised to ensure that the programme used is appropriate and the management of the animals leading up to and during the programme is optimal to ensure best results.
The biggest driver of success is a rising plane of nutrition and avoiding sudden changes in diet, so keep them in on silage or have them out and acclimatised to grass before starting. Feeding 2kg of meal will improve results and facilitate handling. The choice of programme that is used varies with the type of animal and whether it is sexed or conventional semen.
Even at that, there is often more than one suitable option that can be used, so discuss with your vet as to what best suits you. It is important that the products are used according to instructions – for example, an intramuscular injection given under the skin will dramatically reduce results.
Ensure that arrangements are in place with the AI technician and have enough help to ensure the job goes smoothly. Monitor for repeats, particularly around 21 days, and don’t rely on a stock bull for repeats if numbers are big.
Then scan after 30 days to check pregnancies. Synchronisation programmes are a great management tool on modern suckler and dairy farms and facilitate a choice of bull and also a better work-life balance along with known calving dates.
Donal Lynch MVB
XLVets
Slieve Bloom Veterinary
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