Before the Semen Arrives

By Debra Ottier, BSc(Agr), MS

Iron Horse Equine

Here is a checklist to help breeders prepare for breeding their mare with artificial insemination.

• Find a stallion that will compliment your mare in terms of conformation and bloodline

• Contact the stallion owner to inform them of your decision and to find out what paper work needs to done prior to ordering the semen

• If needed, obtain a culture with cytology to ensure your mare is clear of any infections or possible problems that would reduce your chances of success

• Watch your mare for regular heat cycles lasting approximately 5-7 days, and is approximately 21 days apart; decide on a date that you wish to breed and inform the stallion owner with plenty of notice (preferably 2 weeks)

• Be sure you or your veterinarian has dealt with cooled or frozen semen previously and has a good track record

• For frozen semen, you will need to store the semen once it arrives, as the transport container only holds the -196 °C temperature for 14 days; check with a local cattle breeder as they usually have these types of containers for breeding cows

• When the expected heat is upon you, call the veterinarian to arrange an ultrasound to determine when the mare is expected to ovulate, so you can time your semen shipment; with frozen semen, it can be shipped to you at anytime, as long as you have a storage tank (not a regular freezer!!)

• Pick up your semen shipment and breed your mare