Lulu’s AI Journey: Fingers Crossed for a Calf!

Today’s an exciting milestone — Lulu, our mini Hereford, has officially been bred! 🎉
Since our bull Lenny isn’t quite old enough yet, we decided to go the artificial insemination (AI) route for her first calf. It’s a whole new experience for me, but one I’ve really enjoyed learning about!

💉 The AI Process

After looking through several prospective bulls, I chose a small-framed Highpark with a great track record of producing smaller calves. Since this will be Lulu’s first baby, I wanted to make sure everything goes as smoothly (and safely) as possible.

I ordered two straws of semen from this bull — having an extra on hand is always smart in case the first try doesn’t take. My vet handles both storage and the insemination, so I had it shipped directly to his clinic.

🩺 Step 1: Hormone Synchronization

At her first appointment, Lulu received a dose of hormones to bring her into heat.
This involves inserting a Controlled Internal Drug Release (CIDR) device, which delivers progesterone and helps regulate her cycle. After that, we brought her home for about a week before her follow-up visit.

🐂 Step 2: The Real Deal

For round two, we trailered Lulu back to the vet where she stayed for a few days to ensure perfect timing. The CIDR was removed, and another hormone injection was given to officially kickstart her heat cycle.

My vet uses a dummy bull during this stage to tell when the cow is ready — usually indicated by standing still when mounted rather than moving away. Once confirmed, the insemination takes place using the prepared straw of semen.

⏳ Now, We Wait!

And now comes the nerve-wracking part… waiting the 30 days before we can do an ultrasound to confirm whether she’s bred. 🤞

I’ll be counting down the days and keeping everything crossed for a little “moo in the oven.” Hopefully, this time next month we’ll be celebrating some very good news from Miss Lulu! 🥹💕