Cow Wheel
Cow Wheel
Cow Wheel
A cow wheel can be turned so that breeding and calving dates can be set for each individual cow. The wheel is divided into the 12 months of the year. In turn each month is divided into weeks of 6 days (not 7) so that each month is divided into five weeks each. The weeks are indicated by dates, e.g. 1-6, 7-12, and so on. Some calendars have pointers or magnets, which allows you to mark or indicate a date. The following activities are shown on the cow wheel: Calving, heat detection, service, second heat detection, pregnancy diagnosis, dry-off period, steam-up period, calving.
1. Breed the cow when she is in heat. Breed in the afternoon if she shows heat signs in the morning. If she shows heat signs in the afternoon, breed her the next morning. Note the breeding date on the calendar. 2. Check closely for return heats 2 to 3 weeks (approximately 21 days) after the first heat signs and breeding. Rebreed her again, if necessary. 3. If the cow doesnt need rebreeding, start checking for pregnancy 2 to 3 months after the recorded breeding date. If she is not pregnant, you will have to start checking for heat signs again. 4. If the cow is indeed pregnant, note the date on the calendar. You can milk her for up to two months before she is due to calve. 5. Stop milking: The cow should be dried off two months (60 days) before calving. Note this date on the wheel during step (4). 6. Start with the steaming-up process two weeks before calving. Start feeding concentrate now and continue feeding concentrates for the next four months. 7. The cow calves. Note this day on the cow wheel. The next breeding date should be approximately 60 days later the same date when breeding started in point (1). Cow wheels and clear instructions on how to use them, can be obtained from DeLaval. Phone Rykie Visser on 082 653 0364 for more information. UM
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TECHNICAL
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