Managing Genetics
By Jennifer Ryan
Beef Vet Magazine and BeefMagazine.com
Winter 2013
The most fundamental part of a cow herd is its DNA. Now is the time for DVMs to get involved with genomic information to help producers manage defects and improve herd performance.
Most traits are genetically influenced whether they are desirable or undesirable. Discovery of a new genetic abnormality makes now a good time to insert a veterinarian's expertise and perspective into DNA-based decisions.
The veterinarians' traditional role puts them in a prime place to collect DNA samples during processing or breeding soundness exams. Then, their expertise and education can help producers make smart decisions to retain, and advance, a herd's genetic progress.
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