Did that Holstein cow really sell for nearly two million dollars? And why?
Yes, she did — S-S-I Doc Have Not 8784-ET also known as “Doc” sold on June 11 at the Summer Selections II Sale in Wisconsin. The four-year-old Holstein cow, is not only good-looking but combines some of the best genomics in the business.
Genetic markers
Genomics is more than just a buzzword — it is the sequencing of genetic materials in DNA that play a role in helping dairymen breed better cattle. Using Predicted Transmission Ability, dairymen can predict individuals’ likelihood of passing on desirable traits. Genomic Total Performance Index summarizes dairy-related traits that each particular animal possesses. Doc carries a +2.93 PTA for type, and a +2742 for GTPI.
She’s a proven transmitter
More than just a pretty face, Doc has already produced three calves and most recently calved on April 8, 2022. She sold with an additional 40 pregnancies carried by recipients to a syndicate: AOT Holsteins and Kings-Ransom Farms of New York, Tim and Sharyn Abbot of Vermont, and Mike and Julie Duckett of Wisconsin.
Her daughters carry high Genomic Total Performance Index values and predicted transmitting ability for type. Doc has already produced three offspring with over +3035 GTPI — a consistently impressive number.
She has a deep pedigree
This one in a million cow traces back ten generations to the great cow Snow-N Denises – one of the best cows the Holstein breed has ever seen. The new owners helped develop Doc by raising prior generations of excellent relatives. In fact, Kugler bred her dam, Fly-Higher Jedi Havenot-ET and Kings-Ransom, Mike, and Julie Duckett have raised cows from the same line.
What’s in store for Doc?
While Doc attended the 2021 World Dairy Expo, she became sick on the grounds and was not shown. The contest was much-anticipated by spectators — however, she will compete in 2022.
“Last year, at Madison, “Doc” was considered the most valuable cow on the grounds,” said Dan Cnossen, Cnossen Dairy. “She has the genomic numbers that intrigue many A.I. companies worldwide and incredible phenotypic type.”
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