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• Getting the most from pregnancy testing

Getting the most from pregnancy testing

Pregnancy testing, like herd testing is an onerous task, however, technology has made the job easier.  From the vet’s point of view, we have the opportunity to ultrasound herds, which is easier on vets and cows.  Ageing pregnancies with the ultrasound can only be done with accuracy on cows less than 15 weeks in calf.  Any cows further in calf or that cannot be detected with the ultrasound are best done manually to get the most accurate diagnosis.

Given the effort that is required to pregnancy test, it is worth making sure that we utilise all our resources to make the most use of the information.  To do this, here are a few tips:

·         Attempt to have all cow numbers readily identifiable at cow side.

·         Match up NLIS tags accurately with other cow ID for herds that use scanners.

·         Update all breeding records that are available and forward them to TVG to produce expected weeks in calf lists for use on the day of pregnancy testing.  If these are recorded at a herd test centre we can down load them.

·         Organise to do the first pregnancy test between 14 and 16 weeks after mating start date. This means that most herds will need to do a second pregnancy test to recheck empty cows 7-8 weeks after bulls are out.

We are prepared to fit in with your routine for pregnancy testing.  Many herds now choose to pregnancy test during AM or PM milkings.  This is easy for rotary herds. Herringbones can use trolleys in the pit rather than planks if there is not an AI race at the exit. We will provide enough vets so that the job is done as efficiently as possible.  We do have some peak times for pregnancy testing where it may be difficult to book in herds and prepare records at short notice.