Introduction to Pregnancy Diagnosis
November 5 - November 6
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.
