Artificial Insenmination
The term artificial insemination is a generic term and covers a multitude of different methods and therefore likely outcomes. No matter what type of semen (fresh, chilled or frozen) or the method of artificial insemination that is used to deposit the semen, careful and skilful handling of the semen is essential. Furthermore, assessment of a sample of semen by a qualified and knowledgeable person prior to insemination also plays a critical role in the maximisation of pregnancy rates.
Vaginal – Fresh or Fresh Chilled Artificial Insemination
Side by Side AI
At its simplest AI describes collecting semen from the male in the presence of the bitch and using a catheter to place the semen in the vagina, referred to as “side by side” AI. In theory, this method is as likely to produce as many puppies as a natural mating. One point worth considering is that this does not require the bitch’s co-operation so without progesterone testing it is difficult to know if the timing is correct.
Vaginal AI with good quality fresh chilled extended
Next in order of simplicity is vaginal insemination with good quality fresh chilled extended semen. One problem for the breeder doing their own insemination is in assessing semen quality. This is an area where Croft Reproduction can help. It is possible for our trained staff to look at a small sample of semen and evaluate the quality.
In general, vaginal inseminations may be used when:
• Motility is 40% or greater.
• Sperm numbers are adequate - at least 200 million live sperm cells should be used with a vaginal insemination.
If when evaluated the semen is not of good quality the breeder then has the chance to use Transcervical Insemination (TCI) and perhaps semen enhancing products from Cani Pro/Mini tübe to improve the chances of conception. There are many different types of catheters that can be used for vaginal AI. At Croft we insert a special artificial insemination catheter, the Mini Tübe MAVIC catheter, which introduces semen into the region of the cervix at the very end of the vagina. A bulb at the end of the catheter is inflated to mimic the swelling of the dog’s penis during mating. This not only prevents back flow of semen but stimulates the vaginal wall resulting in oxytocin release and stimulation of vaginal and uterine smooth muscle contractions which facilitates transport of the sperm into the uterus. After the bulb is inflated, fresh semen is slowly injected down the catheter into the far end of the vagina. This is then followed by warm canine semen extender which functions to help flush the semen into the uterus in the same way prostatic fluid does during natural mating. This is a technique that can be used in all bitches, is non-invasive, requires less skill and equipment than the intra-uterine AI techniques and therefore is also economical. It works well because it mimics the features of the natural mating which are intended to aid the sperms progress into the uterus and hence maximizes conception rates. Also, as the bulb prevents back leaking of semen, there is no need to elevate the hind quarters of the bitch after insemination.
Croft Reproduction
Croft Vets
Northumberland Business Park West
Cramlington
Northumberland
NE23 7RH
Telephone: 0191 2503800
Email info(at)croft-reproduction.co.uk
www.croft-reproduction.co.uk
