Economics of Preg Checking with Dr. Andrew Bronson

Here at ReproScan, we certainly think that ultrasound offers valuable management information that helps producers manage their herds. From the simple “bred and open,” to looking for twins, or fetal aging, ultrasounding cattle is a value-add for all producers to make better-informed decisions.

The economics of preg checking include many variables- region, rainfall, hay crop, regional pricing of preg checking, cull cow and bred cow markets- the list goes on and on. These factors are going to vary from state to state, and even county to county across the country. As of the summer of 2024, we are experiencing higher than average cattle prices, with reason to believe that we have not yet hit the peak of the current cattle cycle: heifer retention has barely begun and new packing plants will soon be adding to the nation’s harvest capacity. One way that ranchers can position their operations for future success is by utilizing ultrasound technology to get accurate fetal aging information. By utilizing this information strategically, producers can sell later calving cows and second and third cycle bred heifers into the strong bred cattle markets.

Best Preg Checking Practices

Whether it’s your first season of cattle preg checks, or your twentieth, it’s still best to be prepared. We’ve put together a list of all of our “Best Preg Checking Practices”, including what to do the night before, a packing list, and best practices in producer communication.

The Night Before

Charge your monitor and your ultrasound! There’s nothing more disappointing than getting out to the chute and realizing that your equipment isn’t ready to go. Make sure that the hard power switch on the back of your monitor is turned on when you are charging it, and you only use the chargers that came with your ultrasound. We recommend using a label-maker or Sharpie to label your charger so that no one interchanges it with another charger.

Training Course FAQs

Why should I attend a ReproScan Training Course?

We’re glad you asked! Training is at the heart of what we do here at ReproScan, and we work hard to make sure that our customers walk away excited and confident from each course. The course will cover calling pregnant/open, fetal aging, and fetal sexing, as well as coaching on extension arm technique. These RACE-Approved Courses will provide you with 9 Continuing Education Credits and are a great opportunity to get hands-on experience with highly-trained instructors.

Practitioner Promo 2024

We are so pleased to once again offer our Practitioner Promo Sale- all Veterinarians can save 10% on all new ultrasound packages from August 1st-15th. Don’t miss out on these savings!

Considering a new ultrasound before busy cattle preg-checking season? We just celebrated the one-year anniversary of the launch of our Apexx ultrasound. The Apexx provides users with increased image quality, elevating your preg-checking experience. Visualizing the open uterus, fetal aging, fetal sexing, and performing ovarian exams has never been easier. Available in both convex and linear fixed-probe units, the Apexx line provides an elevated ultrasound experience. Give us a call at 877-890-2411 or email inquiry@repro-scan.com to get more information!

Elle's Corner: How Early is Too Early?

It is coming up on that time of year again—the time of year when we get asked time and time again, “How early can I preg check with ultrasound?” If you have been in one of our classes, you know that this often leads to a lengthier discussion. I often turn around and ask why we want to preg early, and are we rechecking them due to the potential for early embryonic death loss.

Service Check Season FAQs

Remember preg checking season is just around the corner. Did you have a loose cable last year, a battery that no longer lasts as long as it once did, or missing flaps? Now is a great time to send it in before preg season gets rolling. Did you know that one of the best ways to ensure the longevity of your machine is to send it in every 2-3 years for a service check? We highly recommend this service, as you can easily save in repair bills by simply sending in your unit to do preventative maintenance!

Our Training Courses are Calling Your Name!

At ReproScan, we are firm believers in hands-on learning. We recognize that the most effective way to master ultrasound skills is by guiding each participant through every step of the process by going through the basics and then offering them the chance to actively utilize their skills under the close guidance of an experienced instructor by their side. Plus, with these courses being RACE approved, you will also receive 9 CE credits

Equine Uterine Cyst Captured by the Flexx

ReproScan’s Flexx ultrasound is no stranger to capturing unique scans on any type of specie, but this one was particularly interesting. We scanned this mare during our most recent Benchmark Animal Hospital ultrasound training. Dr. Lisa Mauzerall from Benchmark Animal Hospital in Perkins, Oklahoma does a wonderful job by walking us through what she is seeing during this equine scan. Let us know what you think!

Know What to Expect Next Calving Season

May marks the end of typical spring calving season, and maybe, for you, it was a dream, a breeze, similar relaxation levels to a tropical vacation. But maybe it wasn’t. Maybe heifers started calving a month before you expected, or your AI rates were vastly underwhelming. Maybe you had 3 more sets of twins than you were expecting, resulting in multiple c-sections, or far more opens than last year. Or did you have a group that you fed all winter long that showed up open?

May Markdown Sale is Happening Now!

Don’t Miss Out on These Savings!

Spring has sprung around here, and with it, our May Sale- May MarkDown. From May 6-17th, you can get 10% off of all new ultrasound packages, including the Apexx Curve and Apexx Linear packages! This is the first time these units have gone on sale since they hit the market. If you’ve had your eye on one, now is the time to buy!

Whether you’re looking to upgrade your ultrasound unit, purchase a back-up unit, or start using ultrasound technology for the first time- the May MarkDown Sale is not one you’re going to want to miss. Give us a call at 877-890-2411 to get a quote on a new unit today!