Equine Reproduction and Obstetrics

We offer routine pregnancy and follicle scans as well as chilled and frozen Artificial Insemination (AI), assisted breeding, stallion collection, embryo flushing and shipment, problem mare investigation and high risk pregnancy management. We are also available to attend foalings.

Reproductive Ultrasound

Ultrasound examination is used routinely to monitor follicle (egg) development, to assess the health of the reproductive tract and for the diagnosis of pregnancy.

Our ambulatory service offers routine scanning at your property or stables. We require that all mares are properly restrained in stocks or a crush, ideally undercover. Bookings can be made for our mobile crush if required.

We also offer a full reproductive service daily from our clinic and whenever possible, encourage clients to truck/float their horses to us. There are significant cost savings associated with bringing your horse to our purpose built facility.

Problem mare investigation and treatment is also frequently carried out at AVP. This may include uterine culture, biopsy and endoscopy.

Artificial Insemination

At AVP we offer both chilled and frozen Artificial Insemination. Artificial Insemination is generally carried out at our facility where mares with or without foals at foot are housed in safe post and rail yards with shelters. Mares have their reproductive cycle monitored daily via ovarian ultrasounds/scans to monitor follicle (egg) growth and to accurately predict ovulation. This facilitates insemination at the most opportune time, increasing the chance of conception. A variety of post breeding treatments are used when necessary to maximise pregnancy rates.

Stallion Services

Our stallion services include breeding soundness assessments and semen collection for chilled transport. The semen is collected using an artificial vagina while the stallion mounts a suitable mare in season or a 'mounting dummy' mare. The collected semen is evaluated and mixed with an appropriate 'extender' that supports the survival of the semen. The semen is then chilled in an insulated transport container, ready for shipment.

Embryo Flushing and Shipment

Embryo Flushing is the process by which a fertilised embryo is flushed from the mare's uterus and then recovered via filtration. The embryo is then stored in transport media which enables it to be chilled and transported for transfer into a recipient mare off site. This service is readily available at AVP. AVP is in the process of developing a recipient mare herd which will allow us to transfer embryos, hence offering a complete Embryo Transfer service for our clients.

High Risk Mare Management

AVP offers serial ultrasound examination during pregnancy in order to monitor the health of a pregnant mare's placenta and developing fetus. As in human obstetrics, these scan are performed with a high power ultrasound machine and they enable us to detect signs of infection within the placenta or fetus that commonly cause abortion. Various treatments can be used to maximise the chance of a healthy live foal on delivery. We have successfully managed mares that have aborted over multiple previous pregnancies.

Neonatal Foal Care

Premature and sick foals often require intensive care. We have dedicated veterinarians and nurses that provide round the clock care for these patients. We are equipped to provide intravenous fluids, oxygen support and assisted feeding as required.

In our hospital we have specially designed foal boxes that allow mares and foals to be housed in the same stable while maintaining the safety of the foal while facilitating intensive treatment.

Compromised foals can deteriorate quickly so if you have any doubts as to the health of your foal seek immediate veterinary attention. There is no doubt that early intervention results in better outcomes.