Get more heifers in-calf, earlier — with synchronisation and fixed time AI
Synchronisation can transform breeding, creating predictability and producing earlier-born calves
If you are looking to tighten your calving pattern, take a page from the Hession brothers outside Tuam, Co Galway. On their 260-cow, spring-calving farm, synchronisation has transformed breeding — delivering up to 80 per cent conception to first service and a 100 per cent submission rate on day one of breeding.
• Heifers are the best genetics in the herd, therefore breeding them to dairy AI can lead to rapid genetic gains over time.
• Hit the ground running: Heifers calving in the first 10 days of February drive profit and lifetime performance (four–six lactations).
• Stronger, earlier calves: Earlier-born calves are more robust in year one and better set up for next year’s breeding.
• Labour made easier: No more late-night checking for heats or guessing. Fixed-time AI means planned, predictable work.
• Tighter calving spread: All heifers are bred on day one of the mating season and repeats are bred within three weeks.
• Your AI technician plays a key role in a successful outcome. Therefore, start by planning fixed-time AI around your AI technician’s availability.
• To synchronise heats effectively, use all 3 fertility hormones (GnRH, progesterone and prostaglandin) so that all animals in the batch come bulling together.
• Talk to your vet. Your vet prescribes the breeding protocol and sets up the programme on farm.
• Excellent results on the Hession farm with 70% conception rates in year one to 80% conception rates to first service in 2025, resulting in a smoother, more efficient breeding season.
Thinking about tightening your calving pattern and reducing labour? Talk to your vet about Zoetis fertility solutions and see how synchronisation can work on your farm.
For further information please contact your veterinary surgeon or Zoetis, 2nd Floor, Building 10, Cherrywood Business Park, Loughlinstown, Co Dublin D18 T3Y1. Phone (01) 2569800 or visit zoetis.ie.
Prescription decisions are for the person issuing the prescription alone. Use medicines responsibly. For more information visit apha.ie or noah.co.uk/responsible. ZT/26/08/01
