If you are planning to use artificial insemination, your vet may perform an ultrasound to more accurately predict when to inseminate. Timing is critical. You need to be aware of what stage your mare is at to optimize the chances of achieving conception.
Artificial Insemination can be used to breed mares with fresh, cooled or frozen semen. Discuss your options with your equine veterinarian.
The use of Artificial Insemination can prevent the transmission of infection and lessen the risk of injury to both the stallion and the mare.
Some advantages of Artificial Insemination?
- Disease control
- Reduce risk of injury
- Reduces need to transport mares
- One stallion can usually breed more mares, both with a single ejaculate and over an entire breeding season
- The use of semen that is available to your mare at the correct time
- You have more flexibility to use a stallion, with proven ability, to pass on desirable characteristics
Some disadvantages of Artificial Insemination
- Specialized equipment is needed
- Technical expertise is needed
- Incorrectly practiced, AI can cause problems
- Not all breed societies accept this type of breeding.