Beyond the Bull Catalogue: What every rancher needs to know

25/02/2025 34 min Temporada 3 Episodio 3
Beyond the Bull Catalogue: What every rancher needs to know

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Episode Synopsis

Send us a textWhen it comes to choosing the right herd bull, should you prioritize size, milk production, or fertility? In this episode of The Bovine, Kara Mastel sits down with Dr. Carling Matejka, a veterinarian with Agri Health Services, to break down the science and strategy behind herd bull selection. Carling explains why optimization—not maximization—is the key to a profitable and sustainable herd, highlighting factors like mature cow body weight, expected progeny differences (EPDs), and scrotal circumference.  Listen For:04:26 EPDs 101: Predicting a bull’s genetic potential11:28 How breed associations help with bull selection17:18 Lessons from the dairy industry on milk vs. fertility26:16 Why breeding soundness exams are crucial30:02 Expert tips for bull sale dayGUEST: Carling Matejka, DVMEmail | Website | LinkedIn  CONNECT WITH HOST: KARA MASTEL  Email | Website | LinkedIn | Phone Have ideas for future shows? Drop us a note, on social media or via email. ABP Daily | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Email