Artificial Insemination
PRS offers 4 options for Artificial Insemination (AI). Artificial Insemination is the most used reproductive technology in the cattle industry. It allows for the widespread use of genetically superior semen. To learn more detailed info on Artificial Insemination and how it could be beneficial to your cattle program click here.
Option 1: AI, Go Home
Cows brought to PRS for Option 1 are evaluated via ultrasound to determine reproductive health and status. This allows SVES personnel to identify any reproductive abnormalities that may prevent a cow from becoming pregnant or maintaining a pregnancy. Any problems identified during the enrollment exam will be discussed with the owner for possible treatment. Once determined to be reproductively sound, cows are maintained on pasture at PRS with supplemental hay and grain, Observed twice daily for heat. Once heat is observed, they are sorted from the herd and moved into the breeding chute. Semen (provided by the client) is thawed and microscopically evaluated for motility and morphology (abnormally shaped sperm). If the semen is of acceptable quality, the cow is inseminated by highly trained PRS personnel. Once the female is inseminated, the client can pick her up for transport back to his/her ranch. The client will need to watch 16 to 24 days after AI to make sure the cow does not have a return heat, if no return heat it is safe to assume conception. Although can not be confirmed without a proper exam or ultrasound.
Option 2: AI, Stay Until Verified Pregnant
Cows enrolled in this option receive the same treatment as cows in option 1. However, instead of going back to the ranch post-insemination, these cows are boarded at the PRS clinic until they are verified pregnant. Twenty-seven days after insemination, cows are ultrasounded to determine whether or not they are pregnant. If they are confirmed pregnant, the client transports the cows back to his/her ranch. If they are not pregnant, the client has the option of leaving them at the clinic until they are confirmed bred (for additional fees).
Option 3: Haul-In AI
Some clients wish to detect heat on their AI cows. For these clients, Option 3 allows them the least-cost option of getting their cows inseminated by the Team at PRS. Clients can schedule to haul their cows to the PRS facility approximately 12 hours after heat is observed for insemination. The semen is evaluated for quality prior to insemination by PRS team. Following AI, the client transports his/her cows back to the ranch/farm.
Option 4: On Farm AI
On Farm option would have the client detect heat and record on his/her cattle. Then call PRS to schedule AI. There is a travel fee and min head requirements for the option. Before setting your cattle up and planning on this on farm option please call and speak with a team member to make sure the PRS team would have someone available at the appropriate times.