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EQUINE MEDICINEReproduction and Breeding

StallionSperm productionBegins as yearlingMaturity at 4 yrs

EjaculationEmissionRelease of semenPulsatile contractionsEjaculationExpulsion of fluid

MarePlacentaDirect attachmentBloodOxygenNutrients

CyclesSeasonally polyestrusStart-15-24 monthsLasts 21-22 daysRegular seasonJan/Feb-JuneTransition phaseFeb/MarchSept/Oct

CyclesFollicle stimulating phaseEstrus behaviorRelaxed cervixClear dischargeRaised tailSquat/UrinateWinkingBegins 6-8 daysBreeding 3-4 days

Luteal phaseProgesterone productionSwish tailPin ears, kick

FertilizationOccurs in ova ductUterine horn-5-6 daysImplantation 15-18 daysGestation-335 days

SterilityAbortionFetal loss 300 days gestation

Breeding ConsiderationsAppearancePedigreeGenetic abnormalitiesDispositionConformationAthletic ability

Breeding ConsiderationsAgeYoungIrregular heat cyclesAged Anatomical changes

Breeding ConsiderationsBreedRequirements for registryStatus MaidenBarren/openWet

Breeding Considerations

Breeding Records HealthGestation lengthAbnormalitiesAthletic UseInjuries/Disease Drug TherapiesHealthNutrition

Mating

Live CoverHorses heldPastureBest conception rateArtificial InseminationNot all registriesSafest for mare and foal

Mating

Embryo TransferFlushingImplantationSurgicalImplantation

Pregnancy DiagnosisRectal PalpationLate in first semesterUltrasound14 days gestation22 days heart beatBlood WorkPregnancy diagnosisPregnancy support

Pregnant Mare Care

Routine dental and hoof careNutritionParasite ControlVaccinations