Artificial Insemination

A successful artificial insemination (AI) program depends upon:
STALLION

• a thorough examination for breeding soundness on the stallion being used confirmation that the stallion has semen of sufficient quality
• appropriate cooling and storage of the semen sample after collection

MARE

• a satisfactory breeding soundness examination
• the induction of an ovulatory oestrus
• the accurate prediction of ovulation
• correct timing of insemination relative to ovulation appropriate storage, thawing and handling of semen correct insemination technique
• post-insemination examination and treatments as required
• correct pregnancy diagnosis 14 to 16 days after insemination

It is important to ensure that the owner is aware that A.I. in the horse requires a high degree of technical input. At the initial contact with the mare owner it should be made clear that A.I. is not a cheap alternative to natural breeding.

It is vital that there is good communication at all times between the mare and stallion owner and the respective veterinarians.

For an AI program to be successful strict attention should be paid to health precautions and hygiene. Guidelines and National Codes of Conduct for Disease Control appropriate for your country to reduce the risk of disease transmission should be strictly adhered to. Each shipment of fresh or chilled semen has to be accompanied by documents with information on the stallion (identity and health status), the collection centre, collection date, shipment date and information about the semen quality and the number of sperm sent.  [...]