Bull pre-breeding boot camp for Scott the 8th

There can be an over-expectation of how many cows a bull can serve. Be realistic with how much he can do, and make sure he is set up for success, writes farm vet Hazell Mullins.

Teagasc recommends serving three cows every two days, which is approximately what a mature bull can handle. 

We are two weeks into breeding now and for some, it could be even nearing four weeks. Scott the 8th, our infamous bull, is living his best life out with his bro pals in the field, eagerly awaiting his reunion with his ladies. 

He has about four more weeks with his buddies, and in that time, we must make sure that he is at his best before the ladies lay eyes on him. We were seriously considering selling him this spring due to a few difficult calvings. Last year was a funny one with longer dry periods and over-conditioned cows, so he gets a second chance. Lucky Scott.