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Equine Embryo Transfer
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When an embryo is taken from its natural dam and placed in to another mare (the surrogate) to give birth, this procedure is known as embryo transfer. Embryo transfer is being performed with excellent results at East Coast Equine Reproduction Center. To date, we have a 90% embryo recovery rate following insemination of donor mares monitored and performed by our veterinarians using fresh semen from proven fertile stallions. Embryo placement in surrogate mares using a protocol developed by Dr. Paul Johnston has resulted in an 88% pregnancy rate with non-surgical transfers. Dr. Johnston is Board Certified with American College of Theriogenology as an Animal Reproduction Specialist.
The production of foals using embryo transfer (ET) has exciting possibilities; however, it is more complicated than simply breeding a mare. Consider the procedure itself which requires careful monitoring and estrus (heat) cycle synchronization of both the donor and the recipient mare(s), breeding and flushing of the donor mare, processing of any embryo found, and ultimately, transfer of the embryo into the recipient. One or two follow up visits are also required to ensure maintenance of pregnancy. ET generally costs an owner about $1000 - $1500 per heat cycle; more than one heat cycle may be required to obtain an embryo suitable for transplant. However, these factors may be justified when one considers the time away from competition of a valuable mare, the inherent risks of pregnancy, and the number of foals that can be produced in one year from a single mare.
In cattle, ET is used extensively, and creates significant economic and genetic gain for the industry. One factor that makes this possible, is that safe and effective drugs are available to super-ovulate the cow. By using these drugs, it is often achievable to obtain up to 10 embryos per flush. In the mare, similar pharmaceuticals are not effective, and thus, unless a twin ovulation occurs, only one embryo may be obtained per cycle. Another important difference between the two species, is that bovine embryos can be frozen and reliably thawed. This technology has recently become available in horses, and has led to commercial sales of equine embryos for transfer. Imagine the possibilities.
Embryo transfer certainly adds an exciting dimension to horse breeding, and as with cattle, will ultimately contribute to the quality of horses raised. However, embryo transfer is not suited for every breeder, and for those seriously considering ET, it is important to first find out about breeding regulations specific to the breed of interest, because not all breeds will register ET foals. It will then need to be determined if you have a suitable (fertile) donor, and finally, there must be careful selection of young healthy recipient(s) before any work can begin. Recipient mare leasing can be arranged through East Coast Equine Reproduction Center.
If you are considering Embryo Transfer please contact Dr. Paul Johnston for more details and to find out if ET is right for you (902)798-4693. Or for general inquiries email: vets@avonanimalhosptial.com
Embryos
Embryo's like these can be purchased from a selection of quality sport horse mares bred to top quality stallions. The embryos are transferred into approved recipeint mares.
6.5 day old embryo 6 day old embryo
