Semen collection centre.

• This is the first step that has to be mastered to do AI on a sustainable basis.
• Both the semen collector or operator and rams need to be well trained.
• The operator has to know his rams and gain their trust
• Rams must be accustomed to be being in pens and to be handled regularly.

• For semen collection you need a fixed routine.
• Put a teaser ewe in a neck clamp and introduce the ram for short intervals until the ram mounts.
• Identify temperament of each ram. Dominant rams are easier to collect. Spend more time with rams of shy and wild temperament.
• There are 5 stages of collection: Foreplay; Erection; Mounting; Ejaculation; Dismount and Rest.
• An artificial vagina (AV) is an imitation of the vagina of the ewe and provides thermal (temperature) and mechanical (pressure) stimulation to the erect penis of the male to cause ejaculation. The AV consists of an outer casing of rubber or plastic 15-20cm x 5-6cm and an inner liner made of rubber or latex. The liner is folded back and secured over the end of the casing. At one end a sterile calibrated semen collection glass is inserted. The space between the casing and liner is filled with warm water through a tap in the casing. The vagina can also be inflated through the tap to exert more pressure. The temperature on the inside of the liners should be 42°C -45°C - this is a critical aspect of successful collection. When the AV is filled with water of 50°C-55°C – this usually provides correct internal temperatures. Temperature of surroundings affects temperature of equipment and adjustments have to be made. Check with a thermometer to find the correct inside temperature and water temperature.

• To prevent cold shock, the collecting tube should be warmed to 30°C-37°C before collections.
• When the ram mounts the sheath is gently grasped and the penis is deflected onto the open end of the A.V. A vigorous upward and forward thrush signifies that ejaculation has occurred.
• The A.V. is turned with the collecting glass downwards, the pressure of the liner is released and the glass with semen placed in a warm bath at 30°C-34°C.

Electrical stimulators with a bipolar rectal electrode that gives a 10-15 Volt output. The ram is restrained in a lateral position. Straightening of the sigmoid flexure extends the penis and the glans penis is grasped and held with a piece of gauze swab. The rectal probe is lubricated and inserted into the rectum to a depth of 15-20cm, taking care to avoid injury. The rectal probe is applied towards the floor of the pelvis and short stimuli are applied with intervals. The glans penis shows congestion and with the correct stimulation semen is collected in a pre-heated and sterile tube.

• Semen is very sensitive, especially to temperature.
• All glassware for collection and handling must be clean, sterile, dry and warm (minimum 30°C). Work in a clean, enclosed area, protected against sun, wind, dust and insects.
• Directly after collection the tube with semen is put in a water bath at 32°C-34°C.
• Each semen sample is examined for the following:
• Volume: This is assessed by a calibrated collecting glass. Semen volume varies from 0,3ml to 2 ml with an average of 1 ml. Variation due to individual rams, size of testes, age of ram, frequency of collection, feeding, condition and health of ram.
• Density and colour: Density or consistency is an indication of the concentration of the semen