How to Breed Jersey Cows
The Jersey cow is a relatively small cow, bred around the world for use in the dairy industry. The Jersey is the second most popular breed of dairy cow in the world, behind only the Holstein. Jersey cows thrive in all climates and temperatures. Known for early maturity and easy calving, Jersey cows can have their first calves as early as 19 months old. Dairy farmers typically breed cows all year, using artificial insemination, to maintain milk production. Hobby farmers may choose to use a live bull instead.
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Instructions
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Breeding with a Live Bull
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Allow your bull to roam the pasture with the cows nine months before you would like them to calve. For example, for April calves, you would turn out your bull with the cows in July. If you want year-round breeding for dairy purposes, allow the bull to remain with the cows all year.
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Provide extra feed and supplements to your bull when he is breeding to prevent weight loss.
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Provide extra feed and supplements to pregnant and nursing cows.
Artificial Insemination
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Consult your veterinarian for advice if this is your first time using artificial insemination. Ask about injecting hormones to force ovulation.
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Purchase semen straws, syringes and any necessary hormones.
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Inject your cows with hormones, as recommended by your veterinarian, to force ovulation. If you choose not to use hormones, watch your cows carefully every day for signs of the start of the heat cycle. Cows come into heat approximately every 18 to 24 days.
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Tie the cow you wish to inseminate in a calm location. Thoroughly clean the cow's vulva.
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Shake the semen straw, then plunge it into a hot water bath for approximately 45 seconds.
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Cut the end of the semen straw and place it in a syringe.
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Insert the syringe into the vulva at a 30-degree angle, taking care to avoid the urethral opening. Pass the end of the syringe through the cervix, using your index finger to confirm the position of the tip. Slowly deposit approximately half of the semen.
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Reposition the syringe and deposit the remaining semen. Gently remove the syringe.
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References
- Photo Credit lazy jersey calves image by nuudles from Fotolia.com
