‘Do it yourself’ artificial insemination (DIY AI) is employed on many cattle enterprises in the UK. This requires the client having a number of skills that should be properly assessed when veterinarians are assisting with fertility management on the farm. When analysis of farm data suggest that conception rates are suffering due to AI technique, the process from ‘tank to cow’ needs to be investigated. The areas to be addressed must include oestrus detection, semen storage, handling and thawing of frozen semen, handling of thawed semen and placement of the semen. For the latter a good understanding of the bovine reproductive tract is essential.

Claire Walker -