REPRODUCTION TIPS

With proper management, it's possible to increase productivity without compromising reproductive performance. Cows at an equivalent level of milk production, whether supplemented with POSILAC or not, have the same reproductive performance. So, rest assured with POSILAC, and concentrate your efforts on the other factors that impact your herd's reproductive performance. The following sections provide information to help you do just that.

Heat detection
Artificial insemination (AI)
Transition cow management
Record-keeping
Animal identification
Employee management
Cow comfort

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Heat Detection
When it comes to heat detection, using one method is okay, using three methods is great. In fact, a recent 1,000-cow study in North Carolina showed that a system using three detection methods identified 72 percent of possible heat periods, compared with no more than 50 percent with any one method used alone.

The cows measured by multiple methods also had a higher conception rate. For reference, the three methods used were visual monitoring three times a day, electronic pressure sensors to detect mounting activity and an activity transponder to monitor the movement of the cows.

To read a full account of the study, click the link below.

Heat detection methods compared

Many dairies elect to use synchronization protocols as part of a comprehensive heat-detection program. These measures can dramatically increase the percentage of heat-detection and conception rates. Consult your veterinarian for specific recommendations for your herd.

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Artificial Insemination (AI)
Proper semen handling is absolutely essential if you hope to optimize conception rates. In fact, proper semen handling is the cornerstone of any successful reproduction program. Make sure all employees who handle semen are thoroughly trained and retrained often.

The following three links are resources you can use to train employees or design a successful AI program for your dairy.

Semen handling techniques
Top five semen handling errors
Twelve steps to successful handling

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Transition Cow Management
Transition cows are in a particularly vulnerable period. The three weeks prior to and after calving are a critical time, and cows in this period have specific needs. Proper management of transition cows sets the cow up for successful lactation and reproduction.

The following articles explain a few of the ways to prevent herd removal and ensure reproductive health and a successful transition.

Nutrition & reproduction
Remember repro is a luxury
Transition cow checklist
Reduce embryonic loss
Female fertility factors
Influence of mastitis on reproduction

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Record-Keeping
Good record-keeping makes for good reproductive performance. Monitoring reproductive records for your herd makes it easier to optimize herd performance and labor efficiency. The costs and dynamic nature of a successful reproductive management program make it even more important to have the most up-to-date herd performance records.

Read these articles for more on the benefits of reproductive record-keeping.

Reproductive records bring real results
Pregnancy rate to monitoring repro management
RFID as a tool on the dairy

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Employee Management
A lot of work goes into reproductive success. Whether it's monitoring heat, calving or managing transition cows, motivated and efficient employees make the process easier to manage.

Making sure employees know who to report to is important for ensuring efficiency. Also make sure your employees have current and up-to-date training on important subjects such as estrus detection, reproductive protocols, animal management and semen handling.
These articles offer more tips on how to create an efficient and productive work environment for you and your employees.

Standard operating procedures
Design positions that motivate!
Your role as manager

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