Management
conditioning? Commercial cattle
producers need a managed,
not pampered, bull with a
suitable body condition score.
Next, quality producers supply
evidence of a comprehensive
herd health program ranging
from parasite control to
preventative vaccinations. If
this status cannot be verified,
it’s best to continue the search.
Buyers must be assured their
bull purchase will not introduce
disease to their program.
Finally, a BSE or breeding
soundness exam must be
another non-negotiable
item with bulls on the
seller’s block having passed
an exam administered by
a licensed veterinarian or
trained professional 30- 60
days before the sale.
Other items potential sellers
and buyers should compare and
discuss are the relative merits
between bulls through weights,
ratios and EPDs. Bulls should
be registered to access the
benefits of pedigree information
and genetic predictors derived
from data contributed by
the supplier, as it is critical to
compare the qualities of bulls in
actual data. Breeders should be
able to explain the various EPDs,
their meaning and potential
to the buyer, steering them
from antagonistic traits that
don’t match desired goals.
Considering all that hangs
in the balance of the best
possible bull purchase, strive
for professionalism. Cross
the T’s and dot the I’s. Bulk
purchase discounts, delivery
costs, holding fees and payment
process should be arranged
and well defined early in the
negotiation. Unprepared or
nonchalant participants run
the risk of entering into vague
controversial agreements
that are watered down and
distorted by obscurity.
Rather than blindly ignore
negative possibilities, solidify
guarantees and the steps a
supplier will take to assist
and rectify any problems. The
reality is that bulls can fail.
Feelings of trustworthy bull
producers should not be hurt
if questions about guarantees
are broached, as reputations
and finances are at stake.
The bond built between bull
buyers and sellers can create a
special on-going relationship.
When both parties are pointed
in the same direction with
shared versions of overall goals,
collaborating and working
together, a product capable of
making a positive contribution
to the beef cattle industry is
created. Repeat customers are
repeat for a reason and will
justify a purchase arrangement
by the added peace of mind,
knowing the best possible bull
has been acquired from a full-
service genetic provider who
stands behind their product
with a history of quality cattle
and honest dealings. I