Stallion Frozen Semen

Course overview

Lectures will include the advantages and disadvantages of frozen semen, principles of cryopreservation, importance of a test freeze, laboratory equipment and supplies required to freeze semen, detailed instructions on how to process and freeze semen, how to evaluate the quality of a frozen semen sample, methods to store and transport frozen semen, optimal management strategies for mares being bred with frozen semen and procedures for insemination of mares with frozen semen. In addition, a video overview of the entire process from initial evaluation of a stallion semen sample through the freezing and storage process is provided. An appendix of videos describing important background techniques such as how to determine sperm concentration using a hemacytometer and a NucleoCounter, how to centrifuge stallion semen and safety procedures when working with liquid nitrogen are also provided. Finally, a series of charts, worksheets, how-to guides, data logs and protocols are included in the course material. There is no prerequisite for this course.