Introduction to Pregnancy Diagnosis
March 26 - March 27
Run by an AI and Reproduction Specialist and certified inseminator, students will learn the theory and practical aspects of both manual and ultrasound pregnancy testing of cattle.
Course Length: 2 days
Student Maximum: 8 per course
Unit includes:
Theory – reproduction
- Determining pregnancy in cattle
- Importance of inter-calf period
- Dry- & fresh cow management
Hormones involved in getting & keeping a cow pregnant
Practical
- Palpating reproductive organs
- Detection of early pregnancy
- Ultrasound scanning for the foetus between 60 and 80 days
- Feeling for late pregnancy to determine dry off
Animal Husbandry (specific to breeding health)
- Dairy Classification and Body Condition Scores (PennState BCS module)
- Calf Management
- Genetic Classifications, including farm application
- Phenotype traits and application for breeding and showing
- Farm visits – differences in facilities and calf rearing management
The completion of this course requires the passing of a written exam.
Dustcoats and gumboots will be provided for all students to use for the duration of the course.
