Et cetera : Ultrasound Pregnancy Exam Demo Featured in Replacement Heifer Development

Ultrasound has been used in the livestock industry for over 25 years, however its use for pregnancy examinations has grown recently. A 20-28 day-old embryo can be visible to a trained veterinarian, however most prefer to wait a little longer to be able to both age the fetus and determine the sex. For the average commercial cattleman raising his own replacement heifers, just knowing the heifer is bred may be enough, but for those producers selling bred females knowing the age, sire and sex of the developing fetus is important information that can result in increased sale value. Knowing the age of the developing fetus can also be useful in planning for calving time.

A demonstration on using ultrasound pregnancy exams and determining the age and sex of the beef fetus, will be featured in the ISU Extension heifer development programs on Feb. 7 at the Postville Vet clinic and Feb. 9 at the Jackson County Extension office. Both programs start at noon and will be done around 4 pm. Registration is $15, and is due Feb. 1 by calling 319-721-9624.

Co-sponsors of the program include the Postville Vet Clinic and Maquoketa Embryos, along with the Iowa Cattlemen’s Association, ABS Global, Accelerated Genetics, Genex Cooperative, Select Sires, and Land of Lakes/Purina .

The drought in the southwestern cow states has resulted in the sale of a significant amount of the US beef cow herd, meaning there will be opportunities for entrepreneurs who have bred heifers or cows for sale whenever range country gets enough rain to grow grass. Attend one of these programs to find out how you can be prepared when this opportunity arises. For more information contact Denise Schwab, ISU Beef Program Specialist at 319-721-9624, or your county Extension office.