While natural insemination is typically the preferred method of breeding, certain limitations present the need for artificial insemination. These circumstances include proximity between the bitch and the stud, the quality of semen, the fertility of the bitch and the behavioral challenges that prevent natural breeding from occurring, among other factors.
What is TCI?
Transcervical insemination is a method to deliver sperm directly into the uterus, bypassing the cervix. The advantage is that the semen is deposited exactly where it needs to be – close to the eggs it will need to fertilize. This is important because most of the sperm may not penetrate the cervix after a routine vaginal insemination, and this can be especially true for frozen or chilled semen. Compared to surgical insemination, added advantages include no general anesthesia and no postoperative inflammation, suture reactions, etc.
How is TCI performed?
Bitches are typically inseminated in a standing position without sedation. An endoscope is used to visualize the cervix and administer the semen into the uterus with a catheter. The procedure is painless and usually takes 15-30 minutes.
Planning a TCI
Transcervical insemination as well as with any other breeding method, it is important to track your dog’s ovulation cycle with progesterone to identify the optimal time to schedule the procedure in order to maximize conception rates. You must also plan the sourcing of the semen in advance. Semen type is limited to certain insemination methods.
Female Services:
- In-House Progesterone Testing
- Deep Vaginal Artificial Insemination
- Transcervical Insemination
- Pregnancy Ultrasound
- Pregnancy Radiographs
- Cesarean
Male Services:
- Semen Collection and Evaluation