Embryo
Transfer
Embryo transfer is the process of 'flushing' a fertilised embryo from a donor mare and transferring the recovered embryo into a recipient mare that then carries the embryo and rears the foal as a surrogate. ET is designed for use in mares that are the top in their fields and allows them to breed while not requiring extensive time out of work or away from the competition. It is also often used as an option for genetically valuable mares to increase the number of foals they can produce in a single breeding season. In more complicated mares that are unable to carry their foals, ET can also provide a safe, non-invasive method of breeding that can maximise the breeding potential of a mare that would otherwise be barren.
ET is a highly specialised veterinary procedure requiring the exact management of donor and recipient mares to maximise success. Our Veterinarian, Selena, has a wealth of experience performing ETs, and her knowledge of the intricacies of the technique means an ET performed with us produces equivalent pregnancy rates to that of a more traditional AI cycle.
Premier AI is one of the few places in Scotland and North England with a commercially available recipient herd. This avoids the need to source and keep additional mares as a surrogate for your mare. Our recipients are carefully managed to ensure their fertility is maximised, and this is reflected in our successful pregnancy rates. Happy recipients = Happy Embryos!
Potential recipients are carefully assessed to determine their suitability as surrogates and then matched closely with your donor mare.
All our recipients are available on a loan basis for the entire duration of their pregnancy up until the foal is weaned. Recipients can remain on long-term livery with us for foaling or be returned to us after weaning.
We are always looking for additional mares to join our herd. Our mares are often unsuitable for ridden work due to lameness or behavioural issues but still able to have a happy and fulfilled life doing a very important job! Please don't hesitate to contact us if you have a mare that would be suitable as a recipient.