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Artificial Insemination provides several advantages over natural breeding. The majority of mares can be inseminated using one single ejaculate. Extenders added to the semen provide nutrients and protective factors to the sperm which may increase pregnancy rates in sub-fertile stallions. Extenders also contain antibiotics that may reduce the transmission of bacterial infection to the mares. Before mares are initiated in the breeding program at Bella Vista Equine Reproductive Services, a complete reproductive exam is performed to determine if treatment is necessary. Uterine cysts are mapped and recorded to avoid confusion during the pregnancy exam. Mares that fail to get in foal in previous breeding seasons or older maiden mares may require additional diagnostic exams such as uterine biopsy. A very small piece of tissue is taken from the uterus and sent to the laboratory for analysis. Based on the biopsy results we can determine if there is any inflammation or scar tissue in the uterus and initiate treatment accordingly .
Insemination
with Fresh Semen
Stallions are collected at Bella Vista Equine Reproductive Services or at local farms. The semen is checked immediately for motility and concentration and diluted with an appropriate extender. The extenders contain substances that improve quality and survival time of the semen and increase the chance of conception. Stallions with poor semen quality and some problem mares, daily insemination with fresh semen is applicable.
Insemination
with Cooled Semen
The farm manager where the stallion is located is informed that the mare is being monitored at Bella Vista Equine Reproductive Services. Information regarding collection schedule and semen quality is gathered in advance to optimize synchronization of semen shipment with mare ovulation. Semen is ordered when the mare has a mature 30-35 mm follicle associated with uterine edema and cervical relaxation. Timing and frequency of breeding with fresh cooled semen is dependent on semen quality and mare fertility. Therefore two shipments may be required in some cases. When semen arrives, concentration and motility are immediately estimated. Pregnancy rates are optimized when insemination occurs within 24 hours pre-ovulation or within 6 hours post-ovulation.
Insemination
with Frozen Semen
The longevity of frozen/thawed semen is shorter than fresh or chilled semen. Therefore, insemination needs to be performed as close as possible to ovulation. In some cases, stallions can impregnate mares inseminated 24 hours prior to ovulation. However, better results are obtained if insemination occurs within 12 hours prior to ovulation and/or within 6 hours post ovulation. According to the quality of the semen 2 doses are used per cycle. Frozen semen can be shipped well in advance in the beginning of the breeding season and stored at Bella Vista Equine Reproductive Services. The clinic offers permanent semen storage.
*Please consult our fee schedule
by calling us.
*For questions please contact, Dr. Elizabeth Martinsen: (740) 503 2004
