Equine Reproduction & Obstetrics

Nothing embodies the hope that infuses all our equine activities like the birth of a new foal, full of promise and possibility.  The world of equine breeding is fascinating, with its talk of bloodlines going back through the years to equine heroes of yesterday, both in racing and in all the equestrian disciplines.  The team at Central Ontario Veterinary Services offers a variety of reproductive services to assist you in your breeding programme, whether you breed a string of mares every year, or are breeding your mare for the first time.

Fertility Examinations

 Our veterinarians can help you decide which tests are appropriate to assess the fertility of your mare, both for routine pre-breeding examination and for investigation of infertility.  Tests we offer include:

  • Ultrasound examination and palpation of the uterus and ovaries
  • Vaginascopic examinations
  • Uterine cultures and cytology
  • Uterine biopsy
  • Uterine endoscopy

Artificial Insemination and Natural Service

 We can perform all the procedures necessary to ensure that we inseminate your mare at the right time in her cycle to obtain the best chance of conception with:

  • Chilled, transported semen
  • Frozen semen
  • natural service

Obstetrical intervention when you need it, any time of the day or night

 Our veterinarians are experienced in the management of obstetrical complications, and can be reached through our 24-hour emergency service (dial 705-722-3232 and select 1 for emergencies).  Time is of the essence when foaling problems arise, so do not hesitate to ring if you think something might be amiss.  See our Foaling Fact Sheet for more information.

Neonatal and Postpartum Care

Your newborn foal and your recently-foaled mare can be subject to a variety of serious medical conditions, and we recommend that each mare and foal be examined by one of our veterinarians on the day of foaling so that we can identify any potential problems before they become serious.  Our diagnostic imaging services (x-ray, ultrasound, and endoscopy) aid our veterinarians in making a diagnosis and planning treatment, and our staff of registered veterinary technicians can assist you in providing ongoing treatments that may be necessary.

You might also be interested in our Fact Sheet about Foaling.

For more helpful resources, check out our Equine News and How to Prepare pages.