Is your best mare still not pregnant after three breedings? Is the stallion from whom you ship semen dropping off in fertility? Would you like to know about embryo transfer for your great cutting mare in order to keep her in competition? You might need to consult a theriogenologist! (Don’t let the name stop you–that’s just another name for veterinary reproduction specialist. It was coined from the Greek words for “animal” and “reproduction.”)

The American College of Theriogenologists (ACT) is the certifying body for specialists in animal reproduction, including all species of domestic and wild animals. It operates under the watchful eye of the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), which is responsible for conferring the specialty title.

The advanced training necessary to justify Diplomate status of the ACT begins with a veterinary degree, then at least a year of clinical experience, followed by postgraduate training in a two-year residency in reproduction at one of the recognized schools of veterinary medicine, supervison of study, and literature review under the guidance of a Diplomate. An alternative route for certification allows a candidate to bypass the residency requirement. Candidates with at least six years of practice with a major emphasis in theriogenology and a pre-approved study and mentorship program are eligible. This alternative route has resulted in the attraction of many highly qualified practitioners to the ranks.

Both types of candidates are then subject to an in-depth examination, including written and practical components