Artificial Insemination is the process of placing sperm in the reproductive tract of a mare. This process can be carried out using either fresh cooled or frozen semen from a stallion.
The Artificial Advantage
There are some advantages to AI breeding:
- Mare and Stallion never come in contact.
- Breeding can be conducted Internationally using shipped semen.
- A Stallion can breed more mares.
- Reduce chances of sexually transmitted disease.
- Semen can be frozen for future use.
Timing Ovulation
This is the process by which a Veterinarian or Breeding Manager seeks to determine and time the mares ovulation cycle. It is critical that the mare ovulate in conjunction with the insemination.
Frozen versus Fresh Semen
Fresh Semen tends to provide a higher viable sperm count than Frozen Semen. It is very important that the Veterinarian closely monitor the mare's ovulation cycle when breeding with Frozen Semen. When breeding with Frozen Semen a mare should be checked with an ultrasound every 2-4 hours. A mare being bred with Fresh Semen can be checked every 4-6 hours.