Zoetis and Holstein Association USA announce the release of new lists identifying top-ranking bulls for wellness traits available through CLARIFIDE® Plus from Zoetis. CLARIFIDE Plus is the first commercially available, U.S.-based genomic test that offers dairy producers the ability to directly predict disease risks in Holstein cattle. The bull lists will include official industry rankings for the Dairy Wellness Profit Index™ (DWP$™) and Wellness Trait Index™ (WT$™). The two economic selection indexes provide a path for dairy producers to rank and select for comprehensive genetic improvements. With advanced genomic predictions for wellness traits, CLARIFIDE Plus provides direct indication of the genetic risk for six of the most common and costly animal health diseases: mastitis, lameness, metritis, retained placenta, displaced abomasum and ketosis.
“We felt it was important to develop these top-ranking bull lists as another tool to help producers use the technology more effectively, and we have received consistent feedback from Zoetis and Holstein Association USA customers asking for this resource,” said Cheryl Marti, associate director, U.S. Marketing, Dairy Genetics and Reproduction, Zoetis. “We’ve been very pleased to see such enthusiasm and recognition for the benefits of CLARIFIDE Plus to help progress the dairy industry and overall herd health and profitability.”
With the published lists, producers can view top market choices for bulls available through participating artificial insemination (AI) organizations. These lists make it easier for Holstein producers to identify bulls that meet overall profitability goals including production, reproduction, longevity, health and now wellness traits.
New Top-Ranking Bull Lists Available
The four new bull lists available through the Holstein Association USA website include:
• Top DWP$™ bull list for daughter-proven bulls
• Top DWP$ bull list for genomic young bulls
• Top 50 WT$™ bull list for daughter-proven bulls
• Top 50 WT$ bull list for genomic young bulls
Bull information for the top-ranking lists is compiled from propriety wellness traits from Zoetis, combined with traits available from the Council on Dairy Cattle Breeding (CDCB) genetic evaluation. The information is being made available through consenting AI organizations.
“With more than 30,000 members making up our association, we work to keep their operations as healthy and profitable as possible,” said Lindsey Worden, executive director, Holstein Genetic Services, Holstein Association USA. “Working with Zoetis to integrate CLARIFIDE Plus wellness traits into accessible lists for our members is one great example of such efforts.”
CLARIFIDE® Plus gives producers the most comprehensive package of trait predictions for Holstein cattle. Visit CLARIFIDEPlus.com for more information.
About Holstein Association USA
Holstein Association USA, Inc., provides products and services to dairy producers to enhance genetics and improve profitability of Holstein cattle, ranging from registry processing and identification programs to consulting services. Headquartered in Brattleboro, Vermont, Holstein Association USA maintains the records for Registered Holstein® and represents approximately 30,000 members throughout the United States. For more information, visit www.holsteinusa.com.
About Zoetis
Zoetis (zô-EH-tis) is the leading animal health company, dedicated to supporting its customers and their businesses. Building on more than 60 years of experience in animal health, Zoetis discovers, develops, manufactures and markets veterinary vaccines and medicines, complemented by diagnostic products and genetic tests and supported by a range of services. Zoetis serves veterinarians, livestock producers and people who raise and care for farm and companion animals with sales of its products in more than 100 countries. In 2015, the company generated annual revenue of $4.8 billion with approximately 9,000 employees. For more information, visit www.zoetisUS.com.
