Reproductive Medicine

• Artificial Insemination

Semen that has been collected from a stallion is delivered either cooled or frozen and placed into the mare’s uterus at the correct time, based on careful timing of the mare's cycle. Breeding at the correct time is essential for shipped semen and critical for frozen semen. Success rates are higher when the mare is in a facility where she can be evaluated as needed for ovulation and breeding.

• Breeding Soundness Exams

For a successful breeding experience, it is important to have a uterine culture and cytology prior to breeding. A mare’s uterus and ovaries can be evaluated by rectal palpation, culture, ultrasound, or biopsy in order to help predict her ability to get pregnant and carry a foal to term. Stallions can also be examined to determine the quality of their semen. Palpation of accessory glands and testicles can provide early detection of diseases. Test collections of semen can be done to identify ways to improve their fertility and properly prepare samples for shipping across the country. 

• Mare and Foal Post-Partum Examinations

A mare that delivers normally should be evaluated 18-24 hours after foaling to check for post-foaling problems and to confirm she is producing enough milk for the foal. The foal should be checked for any signs of illness or for the presence of any genetic conditions. Its antibody levels should be checked to ensure that it is protected against diseases present in the environment. Because post-foaling mare’s condition and a foal’s health can deteriorate quickly, early intervention is essential for both a mare and her foal. Please call us at the first indication that something is not right.