“Whenever I’m speaking about dystocia, I always begin by mentioning the numbers 15 and 3,” says Mark Hilton, DVM and Midwest Beef Cattle Consultant. “If we have to assist more than 15 percent of our heifers and 3 percent of our mature cows, we have a problem needing attention, and it’s most likely our genetics.”
Hilton describes the most common cause of dystocia in heifers as fetal/dam disparity. This condition is often a result of genetics, and its most basic prevention strategy is to breed heifers to proven sires with high calving ease EPDs from breeds known for this trait.
Even when being careful with mating combinations, it’s inevitable that producers calving out heifers will need to step in and assist from time to time.
Hilton recommends using the Utrecht technique as the easiest way to deliver a calf as it mirrors how females normally lie down during delivery.
“It’s easy on the human, the cow, and the calf,” Hilton says. “Plus, it uses the natural position for the smoothest delivery process.”
Hilton outlines the 4 keys to using the Utrecht technique successfully as:
Dilation of the birth canal.
Manipulating the calf (if needed) into the correct position while the cow or heifer is standing.
Casting the cow in lateral recumbency.
Applying traction during contractions.
Dilation
Hilton believes in nearly all cases it’s helpful to manually dilate the vulva and vagina for approximately 1 to 3 minutes to help prevent tearing the delicate tissues of the birth canal. To accomplish this, first thoroughly clean the vulva and area with disinfectant based solutions. Place both gloved, lubricated arms into the birth canal, clasp the fingers together, and expand the arms laterally to encourage dilation. It can also be accomplished by placing one gloved, lubricated hand on top of the calf’s head and lifting dorsally by extending one’s ankles.
“This manual dilation of the birth canal is necessary and will greatly ease delivery,” Hilton says. “Dilating time is time well spent because the chance of trauma to the mother and her offspring will be greatly reduced.”
Manipulation
An assessment of presentation should be completed to confirm a reasonable chance of delivery. If the fetus appears normal in the birth canal with adequate room, positioned with front legs supporting the head, assistance for a vaginal delivery should continue. When the front feet of the fetus are crossed, this is a sign of fetal/dam disparity. This occurs because the shoulders are
wedged into the pelvis forcing the legs or feet medially. If uncertain as to whether a successful vaginal birth is possible, surgical methods should be evaluated.
For a vaginal delivery attempt, place the chains on the legs as is normally done using a double half-hitch above the fetlock, and one between the fetlock and hoof.
Casting
To cast the cow, a lariat should be looped around the neck with the length of rope laid horizontally down the back, then half-hitched under the animal behind the front legs and again in front of the back legs. She should be haltered with the lead shank tied low behind her. Back her out of the chute keeping the halter tied securely. While one person pulls from behind on the lariat rope, another should apply traction to the chains. This combination will stimulate contractions making her easier to cast. Normally, she will first lie in a sternal position but keeping horizontal tension on the lariat will ease her onto her side.
“In this natural position, she’ll push much harder,” Hilton explains. “This positioning stimulates contractions and allows the pelvis to tilt slightly, functionally increasing in size, which helps the calf come out more easily.”
Pulling
Pull straight out with hooks and chains or a calf jack, gently pressing down on both legs to lift the hips up to the cow’s pelvis.
“At this point, the key is to go slowly, only applying pressure when she pushes,” Hilton stresses. “When she rests, we rest.”
Once the chest is exposed, stop pulling and take a break. Wait about 30 seconds as she will normally rotate the calf a few degrees inside her pelvis to avoid hip-lock. This will also allow the newborn to start breathing.
Once out and on the ground, place the calf in a dog sitting position so the lungs inflate equally.
“Never hang a newborn upside down,” Hilton warns. “If respiration needs to be initiated, stick a clean straw into a nostril, gently contacting the nasal mucosa. This will stimulate gasping and encourage breathing. Repeat this until the calf is ventilating regularly.”
Using the Utrecht technique, especially with first-calf heifers may require slightly more effort, but according to Hilton, it takes advantage of nature’s time-tested strategy and will increase the chances of a successful delivery.
CHICAGO (AP) — United Airlines has struck a deal with Elon Musk’s SpaceX to offer satellite-based Starlink WiFi service on flights within the next several years.
The airline said Friday the service will be free to passengers.
United said it will begin testing the service early next year and begin offering it on some flights by later in 2025.
Financial details of the deal were not disclosed.
The announcement comes as airlines rush to offer more amenities as a way to stand out when passengers pick a carrier for a trip. United’s goal is to make sitting on a plane pretty much like being on the ground when it comes to browsing the internet, streaming entertainment and playing games.
“Everything you can do on the ground, you’ll soon be able to do on board a United plane at 35,000 feet, just about anywhere in the world,” CEO Scott Kirby said in announcing the deal.
The airline says Starlink will allow passengers to get internet access even over oceans and polar regions where traditional cell or Wi-Fi signals may be weak or missing.
Sony has made it easy for Canadian consumers to preorder the PlayStation 5 Pro in Canada directly from PlayStation’s official website. Here’s how:
Visit the Official Website: Go to direct.playstation.com and navigate to the PS5 Pro section once preorders go live on September 26, 2024.
Create or Log in to Your PlayStation Account: If you don’t have a PlayStation account, you will need to create one. Existing users can simply log in to proceed.
Place Your Preorder: Once logged in, follow the instructions to preorder your PS5 Pro. Ensure you have a valid payment method ready and double-check your shipping information for accuracy.
Preorder Through Major Canadian Retailers
While preordering directly from PlayStation is a popular option, you can also secure your PS5 Pro through trusted Canadian retailers. These retailers are expected to offer preorders on or after September 26:
Best Buy Canada
Walmart Canada
EB Games (GameStop)
Amazon Canada
The Source
Steps to Preorder via Canadian Retailers:
Visit Retailer Websites: Search for “PlayStation 5 Pro” on the website of your preferred retailer starting on September 26.
Create or Log in to Your Account: If you’re shopping online, having an account with the retailer can speed up the preorder process.
Preorder in Store: For those who prefer in-person shopping, check with local stores regarding availability and preorder policies.
3. Sign Up for Notifications
Many retailers and websites offer the option to sign up for notifications when the preorder goes live. If you’re worried about missing out due to high demand, this can be a useful option.
Visit Retailer Sites: Look for a “Notify Me” or “Email Alerts” option and enter your email to stay informed.
Use PlayStation Alerts: Sign up for notifications directly through Sony to be one of the first to know when preorders are available.
4. Prepare for High Demand
Preordering the PS5 Pro is expected to be competitive, with high demand likely to result in quick sellouts, just as with the initial release of the original PS5. To maximize your chances of securing a preorder:
Act Quickly: Be prepared to place your order as soon as preorders open. Timing is key, as stock can run out within minutes.
Double-Check Payment Information: Ensure your credit card or payment method is ready to go. Any delays during the checkout process could result in losing your spot.
Stay Informed: Monitor PlayStation and retailer websites for updates on restocks or additional preorder windows.
Final Thoughts
The PlayStation 5 Pro is set to take gaming to the next level with its enhanced performance, graphics, and new features. Canadian gamers should be ready to act fast when preorders open on September 26, 2024, to secure their console ahead of the holiday season. Whether you choose to preorder through PlayStation’s official website or your preferred retailer, following the steps outlined above will help ensure a smooth and successful preorder experience.
For more details on the PS5 Pro and to preorder, visit direct.playstation.com or stay tuned to updates from major Canadian retailers.
Since the PlayStation 5 (PS5) launched four years ago, PlayStation has continuously evolved to meet the demands of its players. Today, we are excited to announce the next step in this journey: the PlayStation 5 Pro. Designed for the most dedicated players and game creators, the PS5 Pro brings groundbreaking advancements in gaming hardware, raising the bar for what’s possible.
Key Features of the PS5 Pro
The PS5 Pro comes equipped with several key performance enhancements, addressing the requests of gamers for smoother, higher-quality graphics at a consistent 60 frames per second (FPS). The console’s standout features include:
Upgraded GPU: The PS5 Pro’s GPU boasts 67% more Compute Units than the current PS5, combined with 28% faster memory. This allows for up to 45% faster rendering speeds, ensuring a smoother gaming experience.
Advanced Ray Tracing: Ray tracing capabilities have been significantly enhanced, with reflections and refractions of light being processed at double or triple the speed of the current PS5, creating more dynamic visuals.
AI-Driven Upscaling: Introducing PlayStation Spectral Super Resolution, an AI-based upscaling technology that adds extraordinary detail to images, resulting in sharper image clarity.
Backward Compatibility & Game Boost: More than 8,500 PS4 games playable on PS5 Pro will benefit from PS5 Pro Game Boost, stabilizing or enhancing performance. PS4 games will also see improved resolution on select titles.
VRR & 8K Support: The PS5 Pro supports Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) and 8K gaming for the ultimate visual experience, while also launching with the latest wireless technology, Wi-Fi 7, in supported regions.
Optimized Games & Patches
Game creators have quickly embraced the new technology that comes with the PS5 Pro. Many games will receive free updates to take full advantage of the console’s new features, labeled as PS5 Pro Enhanced. Some of the highly anticipated titles include:
Alan Wake 2
Assassin’s Creed: Shadows
Demon’s Souls
Dragon’s Dogma 2
Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth
Gran Turismo 7
Marvel’s Spider-Man 2
Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart
Horizon Forbidden West
These updates will allow players to experience their favorite games at a higher fidelity, taking full advantage of the console’s improved graphics and performance.
Design & Compatibility
Maintaining consistency within the PS5 family, the PS5 Pro retains the same height and width as the original PS5 model. Players will also have the option to add an Ultra HD Blu-ray Disc Drive or swap console covers when available.
Additionally, the PS5 Pro is fully compatible with all existing PS5 accessories, including the PlayStation VR2, DualSense Edge, Pulse Elite, and Access controller. This ensures seamless integration into your current gaming setup.
Pricing & Availability
The PS5 Pro will be available starting November 7, 2024, at a manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) of:
$699.99 USD
$949.99 CAD
£699.99 GBP
€799.99 EUR
¥119,980 JPY
Each PS5 Pro comes with a 2TB SSD, a DualSense wireless controller, and a copy of Astro’s Playroom pre-installed. Pre-orders begin on September 26, 2024, and the console will be available at participating retailers and directly from PlayStation via direct.playstation.com.
The launch of the PS5 Pro marks a new chapter in PlayStation’s commitment to delivering cutting-edge gaming experiences. Whether players choose the standard PS5 or the PS5 Pro, PlayStation aims to provide the best possible gaming experience for everyone.
Preorder your PS5 Pro and step into the next generation of gaming this holiday season.
