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Dr Steve © Alan Barber
One thing is sure, when it comes to equine science - nothing stays the same or stands still. Different approaches and techniques, research findings, greater access to information and growing horse ownership makes for an interesting - and sometimes highly confusing - mix.
It also throws up a range of options that we may not have considered before as new information enters the spectrum. There are plenty of 'amateur experts' around, whether by way of informal information sharing forums or those friendly chats and note-swapping sessions we all engage in on a shared subject. Ask the question as to why you may be having trouble getting a certain mare to breed and chances are there will be a dozen different answers. Even questions about how to approach a certain hoof problem or whether a breeding approach is suitable for your purposes can become bogged down in answers that are part myth mixed with a few old wives' tales.
While there is no substitute for finding a good vet who understands your animals and issues, there are often general questions which, when answered professionally, can lead to further exploration of a treatment or technique and the engagement of a professional from the right area.
Steve graduated as a vet in 1994 and went on to specialise in equine reproduction. he now runs total equine Reproduction, a subsidiary company of total Livestock genetics - Australia's leader in animal genetics and reproductive technologies. he has seen an upsurge in equine reproduction as availability and quality of national and international genetic material (semen and embryos) has improved.
"With the exclusion of the Thoroughbred industry, it is exciting that we are now able to access frozen semen from the elite stallions of any given breed throughout the world for what most would consider to be a relatively affordable price," Steve says. Apart from the general veterinary questions he receives, Steve says the greatest number of queries come from people who are new to breeding horses. They have wide ranging questions regarding sourcing semen, frozen versus chilled semen, reproductive examinations, insemination techniques, pregnancy testing, broodmare management and foaling down - all with the aim of safely delivering a healthy foal. Your questions can be sent to Dr Steve at enquiries@eqlife.com.au
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