Embryo Transfer

 

Embryo transfer can be utilised to allow a high genetic merit ewe to produce multiple offspring during one breeding season.  E.T can also be used to produce lambs from ewes that are unable to rear offspring themselves (i.e mastitic quarters).  Donor ewes should be in good body condition, not lame and should ideally have bred before.

Donor ewes have to be programmed with hormone injections, which stimulate the ovary to produce multiple follicles, and consequently multiple eggs (oocytes).  The ewe is laparoscopically A.I'd to optimise fertilisation.  The subsequent embryos are recovered surgically (flushed) 5 days later.  Embryos are graded after collection; those unsuitable for transfer are identified and destroyed.  Most embryo transfer is performed on centre at Newbiggin, but can be carried out on farm by arrangement for larger numbers.  The donor and recipient programmes should be followed carefully in order to optimise results.  Donor ewes can be re-programmed for further flusing or bred naturally.

 

 Example of E.T programme using frozen semen:

DAY 1	Anytime	Donors	Sponges in
DAY 8	Anytime	Donors	Changes sponges
DAY 10	9am	Donors	2ml Pluset
	7pm	Donors	1.5ml Pluset
DAY 11	9am	Donors	1.5ml Pluset
	7pm	Donors	1.5ml Pluset
DAY 12	9am	Donors	1.5ml Pluset
	7pm	Donors	1ml Pluset
DAY 13	10am	Donors	Pull sponges and inject 1ml Pluset
	7pm	Donors	1.5ml (300iu) PMSG
DAY 14	All day	Donors	Tease and record oestrus onset
	From evening	Donors	Remove food
DAY 15	9am	Donors	A.I
	4pm	Donors	A.I
DAY 19	From evening	Donors	Remove food and water
DAY 20	All day	Donors	E.T at centre

 

  

An average flush yields 6 embryos however this is highly dependant on breed, age, time of year and previous breeding history.  Embryos can either be frozen for later use or implanted fresh into recipient ewes.

 

 

Managing recipient ewes

Recipient ewes are programmed as above prior to E.T.  They should be in good health and selected for ease of lambing and mothering ability.  We recommend programming 6 recipient ewes per donor ewe.  Any changes in management or stress should be avoided before and after E.T to allow embryos to implant.

There are residential facilities available at Newbiggin where donor and recipient ewes can be programmedd and managed at your convenience.

 

For further details regarding management and selection of donor and recipient ewes see attached guide.

 

 

 

Cost of E.T

There is a set price for programming and flushing ewes, excluding residential fees at Newbiggin.  Charges for freezing or transfer is dependant upon the number of viable embryos recovered.  For up to date prices please see our current price list or contact the practice for more iinformation.

Sheep Breeding  Services	Sheep Breeding Price List

A 5% discount is available for payment on the day of work only.