5 Steps for a Successful Equine Breeding Season

horse 5 steps for successful equine breeding

1. Conduct pre-breeding body condition assessments.

Ideally, mares should score 5 on a scale of 1-9 on the Henneke system. Stallions should also score 5 on that scale. Under- and over-conditioning may affect a horse’s fertility and reproductive performance.

Adjust animal diet and nutrition as needed. Also, work with clients to ensure vaccination and deworming programs are up to date.

2. Perform breeding soundness exams.

A comprehensive exam for mares includes rectal palpation to assess the ovaries and uterus, as well as performing a culture swab along with cytology, a speculum exam and manual palpation of the cervix. A rectal ultrasound of the reproductive tract can also help determine the presence of excessive uterine fluid, cysts, tumors or other health challenges. This is also a good time for an overall health checkup, as well as consideration of the mare’s breeding and general history.

Also conduct annual breeding soundness exams for stallions. The exam should cover the general health of the horse, mating ability, genital examination and semen evaluation. If semen is to be processed, evaluate semen pre- and post-cooling.

Physical evaluations for horses should also include examination of the oral cavity, eyes, as well as respiratory, cardiac and musculoskeletal systems.

3. Outline embryo transfer protocols.

Develop an estrous monitoring plan and communication plan to keep all parties aware of mare status and each step in the embryo transfer process. Define roles and responsibilities for everyone involved.

4. Prepare for foal delivery.

Once pregnancies are established, ensure your clinic and clients are prepared in the weeks ahead of delivery. Stock up on tools including resuscitators and IgG test kits to help foals get off to a good start.

Consider postpartum physical exams for mares to head off fertility challenges for the next breeding season.

5. Check clinic inventory and order supplies.

Be sure you have the necessary supplies on hand to assist clients with natural service, artificial insemination and embryo transfer this season. Use the checklist below as an inventory and ordering guide.