CHILLED SEMEN

Collected semen is taken directly to our lab and filtered of debris and extended with a diluent that provides protection and nutrition for the semen whilst it is held for insemination or transport. The chilled semen extender we use contains an antibiotic to aid in the prevention of bacterial overgrowth, minimising chances of breeding endometritis (uterine infection). The semen and extender is mixed at body temperature and a small sample is kept for full analysis. All transported chilled semen processed at our clinic is sent with a veterinary certified report detailing progressive motility, live/dead ratio and concentration of spermatozoa per ml, recorded at time of processing and after processing. The semen is slowly cooled to 5° Celsius providing 24-48 hours survival, but this survival time can vary between stallions. Fertility rates achieved with the use of chilled semen results in pregnancy rates equivalent to or better than natural service, as mares in these programmes are often better ´set up´ and at the point of ovulation. Also, uterine contamination is minimal due to the use of antibiotic enriched semen extenders. Semen collected, extended and chilled at the clinic is organised for transport by our staff.