Synchronization programs for cows

Pre-Synch/Cosynch Protocol

• Initiates ovulation ~ reducing the number of cows that could "slip through the cracks" as a result of being anestrous.
  

Pre-Synch

• Sets cows up for optimum response
• Assures all cows are bred by 21 days after voluntary waiting period
• 8-12% increase in conception rates
• 4-10% increase in pregnancy rates when used in combination with Ovsynch
  

Select Synch, Hybrid and CO-Synch are based on the same two-shot protocol, using GnRH and PGF seven days apart. You as a producer must balance your desire for high pregnancy rates against your ability to provide the quantity and quality of labor necessary for heat detection. Cows bred off of detected heats will typically have higher conception rates than those that are fixed-time inseminated.

Select Synch

• Induces some anestrous cows
• Relatively low cost

Hybrid

• Combines Select Synch and CO-Synch
• Requires less detection than Select Synch
• Requires less GnRH than CO-Synch

CO-Synch

• Allows for fixed-time breeding
• No heat detection needed
• Most labor and time efficient method
• Breed at 48-64 hours after PGF

Synchronization programs for heifers

MGA-PGF

• Proven system for heifers
• “Jump starts” many heifers
• High response rate
• Excellent conception rates
• Tight synchrony of estrus
• Time AI at 72 hours after PGF if heat detection is not an option
• Also effective on beef cows

EAZI-BREED™ CIDR® (for heifers and beef cows)

• Allows breeding programs to start at any stage of the estrus cycle
• Very tight synchrony
• Increased heat activity
• CIDR calculator

Success depends on details

While the benefits of synchronization are countless, none of them will be experienced unless you pay attention to the details. Following are a few critical details to keep an eye on.

1. First-calf heifers, late-calving cows, difficult births and retained placentas are all associated with reduced fertility. Group these ‘high risk’ animals separately so maximum nutrition, veterinary care and TLC can be efficiently provided.
   
   
2. Vaccinate at least three weeks prior to the beginning of the breeding season.
   
   
3. Use some type of estrous detection aid (tail chalk, tail paint, etc.) to improve the efficiency of your heat detection program.
   
   
4. Make sure adequate labor will be available for heat detection and breeding and that each person is adequately trained for their assigned task.
   
   
5. Recheck the semen tank and breeding kit to ensure adequate quantities of semen and all breeding supplies are in your possession before you synchronize animals.
   
   
6. Make sure all handling facilities are in proper working order and safe.