Goal Setting: Redefined

Before embarking on your bovine reproductive journey, pre-planning and goal setting is the real secret ingredient to success! A common question I like to ask new clients is what you’re trying to accomplish by using ET or IVF in your breeding program. There are so many ways to apply these technologies that the possibilities are endless! 

An easy place to start is by doing an inventory of your current program. What are the strengths, areas for improvement, and where do you want it to go? (Also, keep in mind your client base!) We know that the return on investment for any reproductive program doesn’t happen overnight. From prepping donors and recipients to creating embryos, implanting them, calving them out and raising the calf to either sell or use as a replacement can take at the very least 18-24 months. Knowing what direction you want to go with that in mind is critical!

Back to business; Why do you want to use Embryo Transfer or In Vitro Fertilization? Are you looking to make more of your best show heifers or steers? Do you want to create more value in your lower to middle end cows by having them carry better calves than they’re able to produce naturally? Do you have clear stand out performers in terms of milk or beef production that could elevate your next generation? Are you changing directions and looking to do it faster than with natural service or AI? 

After we know some of these answers, we start talking details! Are you wanting to fill your tank with frozen products to use throughout the year or synchronize for fresh transfers? Is buying embryos a better option than producing them yourself? My all time favorite – What is the budget for the project? 

While we can’t answer these questions for you, our team is here and ready to be a resource and guide for you on this journey! It’s never too soon to start thinking about the next generation!