Repeat breeders: is there anything that can be done to help lift conception rate?

摘要

Poor heat detection, lame cows or a bad Al technique can all lead to cows being served repeatedly - an expensive exercise just counting the insemination costs. But while it is sometimes difficult to justify giving cows more than three serves to get them back in calf, it can be hard to find and treat the true repeat breeder, according to vet Mike Kerby of Delaware Vets in Somerset. That's because modern cows and management issues create other problems which mask the true repeat breeder. Higher yieldsand Holstein influence have led to a drop in fertility, while a changing industry has resulted in a shortage of skilled staff.