Muscle weakness genetic defect topic of webinar

Dairy Cow (Photo courtesy of ARS.)

The Iowa State University Extension and Outreach Dairy Team monthly webinar series continues from noon to 1 p.m. April 2. The program will help Holstein breeders understand the muscle weakness genetic defect in Holstein calves.

Chad Dechow, associate professor of dairy cattle genetics at Penn State University, will outline the newly identified genetic defect in Holstein calves officially named Early Onset Muscle Weakness Syndrome. MW affects Holstein calves’ ability to stand.

Dechow will discuss the emergence of genetic defects, the discovery of the MW mutation, clinical signs of MW and prognosis.

Producers, dairy consultants and industry representatives are encouraged to attend the free webinar. Registration must be completed at least one hour prior to the program. Register online at https://go.iastate.edu/HOLSTEIN.