numbers to be done, when the bulls have been taken out of the female herd (if they have been) and how long they were in for, facilities available,

number of helpers available, is preg testing being done for sale purposes or personal decision-making reasons.

How many times will the females need to be yarded?

With the synchronisation process included, the females will have to come through a total of three times. The first time will be for administration of an intra-vaginal device. They will then come through to have this removed a week later, followed by a third yarding for AI a couple of days after this. All of this is detailed in the schedule provided to our clients.

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How many bulls do I need to back-up?

Given that the females that do not fall pregnant to the AI are synchronised to come into oestrus within a few days of each other, the work load for the bulls is condensed into a number of females within short succession. We recommend joining at the same number of bulls to females in the herd that you would usually use for the first cycle after the AI. The number of bulls can be reduced after that if necessary.

What percent can I expect to get in calf to the AI?

The average percentages do vary between different herds due to management, feed available and body condition of the females, health, age and the quality of the semen used. Give us a call to discuss your individual situation.

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Do I need to know what bull I would like to AI my females to?

No. If you have one in mind, excellent. If not, we are more than happy to discuss options with you. We have knowledge on what bulls are available for use in commercial and/or stud herds in any given season and can work with you to decide what might suit your herd and needs.

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How long after calving can I consider AI’ing my cows?

It is advised that cows be AI’d about 8 weeks after calving for the best results.

numbers to be done, have they had experience with the process before, when is their ideal joining commencement, are they able and willing to yard the females three times during the process,

idea of facilities and helpers available, are they EU accredited or not, do they have a semen choice in mind and do we need to help in sourcing that, have they got enough bulls to back the females up (if they are going to back them up).

What is the process?

After examination of the internal and external genitalia and the structure of the bull, a sample of semen is collected with the aid of an electro-ejaculator. The semen is examined on the spot to determine its concentration and motility and identify any issues such as infection. There is the option to send a sample of this away for further analysis at an independent laboratory.

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How long does it take?

A maximum of 10 minutes per bull should be allowed.

Do you provide a certificate?

Yes, the findings of the examination and semen analysis of the bulls assessed is documented at the time and a certificate with this information provided afterwards.

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Do I need any particular facilities?

A reasonable crush for restraint is essential to ensure the safety of all involved, especially given the size and power of bulls.

numbers to be done, why testing is being done – if pre-joining or pre-sale then when are they required for this,

facilities available, are they all in the one place or do we have to move yards.