Wearable device for cows turns into big business

Global Business

Wearable device for cows turns into big business

It was only a matter of time, technology is becoming a mainstay on the world’s ranches. Just as precision agriculture has transformed farming, tech-savvy cattle producers are also now becoming much more efficient. 

CGTN’s Hendrik Sybrandy reports from the U.S. state of Colorado.

Marlene Reynolds is the proud owner of a Texas Longhorn cow.

Affectionately named ‘Annie Git Your Gun’ – this bovine has Marlene’s near constant attention, even when Marlene is not right by her side.

Melissa Brandao is the founder of HerdDogg, a Colorado company that’s now selling these smart tags.

With the help of bluetooth technology, cattle owners can learn much more about their cows’ and steers’ activity and health.

“Herd animals are able to disguise their illnesses for two or three days. It’s a protective thing to guard against predators. But now that sort of information can be known immediately”, Brandao said.

When it comes to livestock, technology is making its presence felt more and more. Drones round up cattle in Australia. These wearable tech “cowlars” help increase milk production in Pakistan.

Brandao calls her $10 ear tags an enhancement. They can’t replace humans.