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Embryo Transfer
is becoming increasingly popular as a tool in equine reproduction. It is
a reproductive technique that involves breeding a mare [the so-called
donor mare] to a stallion, usually by artificial insemination and then
collecting the resultant embryo [8 days old] by flushing the uterus of
the donor mare. The embryo is then transferred into the uterus of a
surrogate mare [the so-called recipient mare] to establish a pregnancy
and the recipient then carries the foal to term and nurses it until
weaning.
It is a non -surgical procedure and poses no increased risk of embryo
loss or birth defects.
Developments in embryo techniques have improved success rates and made
it more affordable.
Advantages of ET
- Performance Career -
Embryo transfer allows a mare to produce foals without interrupting
a performance career. Early season and well-timed mid-season
transfers can work around show schedules.
- Multiple Foals - Embryo
transfer allows a mare to produce more than one foal in a given
year. Two to four foals in a year is realistic for most mares.
Through producing multiple foals a breeder can maximize the genetic
contribution a mare can make to a breed over her lifetime. A mare
could produce multiple foals for one registry or foals for more than
one registry.
- Inability to Carry to Term
- Older mares have age-related problems that may prevent them from
carrying a foal, such as poor uterine environment, cervical tears,
soundness problems, etc. Some younger mares may be unable to carry a
foal due to injury, physical condition or poor fertility. A mare
with a history of repeated abortion may be an ideal candidate for
embryo transfer. The healthy environment of a surrogate/recipient
mare's uterus can give these foals a proper start.
- Late Foaling - Embryo
transfer enables a late foaling mare to produce yet still be free
for an early breeding date the following year.
- Reduced Stress - An owner
may not want a particular mare to go through the stress and physical
risks of foaling. With embryo transfer the recipient/surrogate mare
takes that natural responsibility.
Embryo transfer recipients
We have recipients available
for your use.
Click here to view the
Veterinary Charges
for E.T. Services
Click here to view our
charges for E.T. and Terms &
Conditions
Click here to complete and print
E.T.
form for returning by post.
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