4 steps for breeding season

Spring can be a very busy time for producers. Calving season is in full swing as well as putting fertilizer out. With breeding season being months away in some cases it is easy to neglect preparing for it. But that would not be the best move to make. Now is the time to start getting prepared for it. Doing so will give you time to correct any issues that may come up.

Breeding Soundness Exam

Your bulls play an important role in your herd’s genetics. You should conduct a breeding soundness exam on them every year before you turn them out with the cows. It is recommended you conduct these exams 60 days prior to turn out.

These tests are used to determine if your bulls are fertile and able to breed your cows. The veterinarian conducting this will take a sample to see how his sperm is doing. It will also include measuring the scrotal circumference to ensure that he has plenty.

One thing to consider is that your basic exam does not include Trich testing. If you are in an area where this is a problem then bring it up to your vet that you would like to include this in the exam.

I go into a little more detail about breeding soundness exams here.

Pre-Breeding Vaccinations

Protection against any possible diseases in your herd begins with your cows. A healthy cow means there is a better chance of having a healthy calf.

You should administer the vaccinations 30 days prior to the start of your breeding season in order for them to be most effective. Since different areas have different risks you should consult with your local vet to know which vaccines you will need to give.

Parasite and fly control

According to research by Iowa State University not controlling parasites could affect your breakeven negatively by 30%. Controlling these problems have been shown to be the most effective way to boost calf weaning weights.

Since your calves are still nursing you could get away with treating just the cow. Any resistance that she has will be passed along to her offspring. That being said, it is still beneficial though to treat the calves weighing between 200 to 400lbs.

Vaccinate calves

You should consider vaccinating your newborn calves at 30-90 days of age in order to give them a good start at resisting any diseases. It is usually recommended to give them a 7- or 8-way clostridia vaccine in order to boost their immunity. Depending on your area, like here in Texas, you may also need to give them something to prevent blackleg as well.

Since you will be having them going through the working pens now is the time to castrate and dehorn them too. New Mexico State has some valuable guidelines for what to do with calves at this time.