Collecting and handling semen is not a complicated process; however, knowledge and attention to detail is required at all stages of the task. | Photo: Anne M. Eberhardt/The Horse

Collecting and handling semen is not a complicated process; however, knowledge and attention to detail is required at all stages of the task. Equine semen is very sensitive and if not handled properly will quickly lose its viability. The goal is to collect the best possible sample while ensuring everyone’s safety, and a technician’s role in this process is important from beginning to end.

If a stallion’s specific preferences and needs are not designated on an existing medical record, the veterinary technician should compile a medical file of this information for future collections. These include specifications for use of a phantom/mare, temperature and weight of artificial vagina (AV), extender and antibiotic preference, and whether the front legs need to be wrapped for protection. Determining how the stallion is handled at home provides the veterinarians with very important information.

Before the stallion arrives, warm the extender and antibiotics, stage warmer, slide warmer, and AV liner to 37°C (98.6°F). Wrap the phantom with plastic wrap to prevent possible disease transmission, and adjust it to the horse’s preferred height. Have a plastic bag-lined bucket ready with warm water for washing the penis. Label any cultures with the stallion’s name, veterinarian’s name, and site to be cultured. A technician that completes these steps helps the veterinarian use his or her time more efficiently during what can be a fast-paced event

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