First A.I. experience

[Baldie Maker]

Just had an A.I. class today, out of the 5 cows we had to practice on 3 had messed up cervixs/freemartins. We are going to get to try again later this week on some other cows. One thing I did learn today is that cervix is one slippery sucker. :banana: None the less it was a very interesting experience and I look forward to learning more and hopefully becoming proficient at this one day.

 

[jtbakv]

classes never new they had such a thing does anyone know of any in s.e.tennessee

 

[Baldie Maker]

I know genex has one in Tenn., don't know where though. The thing I would do if I was looking for one is to contact the major stud companies or your areas semen rep and he/she will get you into contact with the right people.

 

[TexasBred]

That slippery stuff you're feeling is cow shyt. ;-)

 

[deenranch]

I look forward to learning more and hopefully becoming proficient at this one day

Just wait until you get your first AI calf on the ground. It's like having a first born child all over again...

 

[Victoria]

So true deenranch!lol I was so proud when my first AI baby was born. He was born a little large however so he didn't make it as a bull but he is going in my freezer.

 

[lynnmcmahan]

Took the course at Miss State last month. They will offer it again in Feb '11. It's a Thur PM, all day Friday, and Sat AM and cost $150. I thought it was very good with a lot of hands "in" practice. After a dry run on about 20 cows there's no doubt that I got a very good feel for it.
I'll probably never use it since we have maxed out with ten pair. We pay a fellow to AI which includes a cleanup bull. It cost about $1k for that, so I figure to buy a tank and the other equip wouldn't be to cost effective. Even if I was successful at 65-70% hits, we would still have to rent a bull. So why did I take the course? Since I retired I have time to do the crazy things; however, I did learn a lot, met some interesting folks, and at least I can talk the language with the AI dealer.

 

[TexasBred]

AND once you really feel confident in breeding your cattle your success rate will go up as well. Not to mention the "satisfaction" of accomplishing one more thing that just not everybody can do. ;-)

 

[deenranch]

Make sure you take your time on each cow. I know people who brag about how fast they get one AI'ed. I would rather take my time and deposit the semen in the correct spot....

 

[Baldie Maker]

I'm going to try and get an internship for the summer breeding cattle. The only way to get really good is to keep practicing and I want to one day be able to incorporate my skills into my cowherd so I'm looking forward to the practice.