After achieving success in the technique of artificial insemination with fresh semen in dogs, Vepery, Madras Veterinary College is preparing for the next phase of insemination with frozen semen. The college is affiliated to Tamil Nadu Veterinary and Animal Sciences University (TANUVAS).
“We have standardized the technique for transcervical insemination. When fresh semen is used the success rate is 60% to 70%, and is roughly equivalent to natural intercourse. Now we have to focus on the use of frozen semen,” T.V. Sathiyamurthy, Director of the clinic, Tanuvas said.
Artificial insemination was started as a pilot project. The Veterinary College also bought a vaginoscope for Rs 15 lakh. “We were the first to develop transcervical insemination technology in the country,” he said.
common breeds
The college began the process of including commonly available breeds such as the Labrador and the German Shepherd.
Semen from the male was collected through digital manipulation.
“The method proved useful for dogs that have problems with natural mating,” said Dr Krishnakumar, professor and head of the Department of Veterinary Gynecology and Obstetrics. However, he agreed that it would take time to achieve success with frozen semen.
Dr. Sathiyamurthy said that there were practical difficulties like transporting semen from far and wide to the semen bank.
“Anyway, we are moving ahead with technology. This process will prove to be a boon for the pet parents as well as the native breeds. We can save the native breeds,” he said.