The Ovsynch Breeding Program for Dairy Cows

A Review and Economic Perspective

Authors

  • Stephen LeBlanc Dairy Production Medicine, Department of Population Medicine, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada, NI G 2Wl

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.21423/bovine-vol35no1p13-22

Keywords:

cows, dairy cows, ovulation, production economics, reproductive performance, synchronizaiton, breeding programmes

Abstract

Heat detection is the single biggest impediment to improved reproductive performance in many dairy herds. Recently, a program for synchronization of ovulation ("Ovsynch") has been developed, which allows for breeding by scheduled artificial insemination. This paper reviews the literature on synchronization of ovulation in lactating dairy cows, and evaluates the economic impact of using the Ovsynch program. Ovsynch offers a method to reliably achieve timely pregnancies without heat detection initially. It increases the rate of insemination and allows control over time to first breeding, while having minimal impact on conception rate. In herds with poor or average heat detection, Ovsynch is economically beneficial as a first line reproductive management program for the herd.

Cover image of Volume 35, No. 1 of the Bovine Practitioner: a herd of dairy cattle waiting in a milking barn

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Published

2001-01-01

How to Cite

LeBlanc, S. (2001). The Ovsynch Breeding Program for Dairy Cows: A Review and Economic Perspective. The Bovine Practitioner, 35(1), 13–22. https://doi.org/10.21423/bovine-vol35no1p13-22

Issue

Vol. 35, No. 1 (2001 January)

Section

Articles