Join Dairy Calf & Heifer Association (DCHA) for its next webinar set for Nov. 7, at 2:00 p.m. Central time (U.S./Canada). Gavin Staley, BVSc & MMedVet(Gyn), Diplomate ACT, will lead this free, one-hour educational offering.
This webinar is approved for 1 continuing education (CE) credit through Registry of Approved Continuing Education (RACE) for DCHA members.
During this webinar, Staley will address the economics of breeding heifers at various ages. A cost is incurred if heifers are not mature when they are bred. There is a strong correlation between the average annual herd milk production and week 10 of first lactation. Second- and third-lactation production are tightly linked to first lactation production. Age at freshening also influences second lactation performance and age at freshening influences third lactation performance. Staley will also discuss the main challenges facing heifer success and key solutions that can impact heifer maturity and lifetime productivity.
In 1984, Staley graduated from the University of Pretoria, South Africa, as a veterinarian. Later, he joined the same faculty of veterinary science as a senior lecturer in reproduction. During this time, Staley earned an advanced degree in theriogenology and qualified as a veterinary specialist in theriogenology. In 1993, he joined the largest dairy practice in South Africa as a partner and practicing veterinarian. Five years later, he emigrated to the United States and started working at a dairy practice in Door County, Wis. During this time, he qualified as a Diplomate of the American College of Theriogenologists. Next, he relocated to California’s Central Valley and has worked in the dairy industry for the past two decades.
