Simple Dilution – On Farm Use
For fresh semen the industry standard is to use 500 x 106 progressively motile sperm with semen extender added in a 1:1 (semen: extender) ratio and maintain a volume less than 60-mL. This should then be inseminated into the mare after processing. If there is a short delay from processing to insemination (< 12-hr) then the dose should be stored in a dark location at room temperature until use (Love et al., 2002; Varner et al., 1989). Light and incubator temperatures will adversely affect sperm longevity. If there is a delay longer than 12-hr then the semen should be processed for cooling and held cooled (~4oC) until use.