If you are looking to tighten your calving pattern, take a page from the Hession brothers outside Tuam, Co. Galway.

On their 260-cow, spring-calving farm, synchronisation has transformed breeding - delivering up to 80% conception to first service and a 100% submission rate on day one of breeding.

Why they synchronise calving

Heifers are the best genetics in the herd, therefore breeding them to dairy artificial insemination (AI) can lead to rapid genetic gains over time.

Hit the ground running: Heifers calving in the first 10 days of February drive profit and lifetime performance (4–6 lactations).
Stronger, earlier calves: Earlier-born calves are more robust in year one and better set up for next year’s breeding.
Labour made easier: No more late-night checking for heats or guessing. Fixed-time AI means planned, predictable work.
Tighter calving spread: All heifers are bred on day 1 of the mating season and repeats are bred within three weeks.

How it works

Your AI technician plays a key role in a successful outcome. Therefore, start by planning fixed-time AI around your AI technician’s availability.
To synchronise heats effectively, use all three fertility hormones (GnRH, progesterone and prostaglandin) so that all animals in the batch come bulling together.
Talk to your vet. Your vet prescribes the breeding protocol and sets up the programme on farm.

Results that matter

Excellent results on the Hession farm with 70% conception rates in year one to 80% conception rates to first service in 2025, resulting in a smoother, more efficient breeding season.

Thinking about tightening your calving pattern and reducing labour?

Talk to your vet about Zoetis fertility solutions and see how synchronisation can work on your farm.

For further information contact your vet or Zoetis by phone (01)2569800 or visit www.zoetis.ie