Module Identifier RD17210  
Module Title BREEDING AND STUD MANAGEMENT  
Academic Year 2007/2008  
Co-ordinator Dr Mina C G Davies-Morel  
Semester Semester 1  
Course delivery Lecture   1 x 1 hour lecture per week  
  Lecture   1 x 2 hour combined lecture/practical per week  
Assessment
Assessment TypeAssessment Length/DetailsProportion
Semester Assessment Stud farm diary Course Work: Outcomes assessed: 2, 4, 5, 6  60%
Semester Exam1.5 Hours Outcomes assessed: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6  40%
Supplementary Assessment Candidates will be required to re-take the element(s) of assessment that led to failure to achive a module pass mark  100%

Learning outcomes

On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:

Outcome 1
Investigate the structure, function and control of the reproductive systems in the equine.
Performance criteria:
a. The structure and function of the major reproductive organs are described and the knowledge used to select breeding stock
b. An understanding of follicular development, ovulation and oestrous behaviour is demonstrated and applied to the selection and management of breeding stock.
c. The factors which affect sperm production and libido in the stallion are described and the knowledge applied to the selection and management of breeding stock.
d. Common reproductive abnormalities and causes of reproductive tract infection are given and this knowledge is applied to the selection and management of breeding stock.
Ranges:
Mare, stallion
Puberty through to old age

Outcome 2
Examine the processes of fertilisation, implantation, placentation and embryonic development.
Performance criteria:
a. The importance of the relative timing of ovulation, oestrus and the time of mating is appreciated.
b. The effect of the maternal system, embryo development and embryo survival is discussed.
Ranges:
Puberty through to old age
Maiden mare, multiparous mare, barren mare.

Outcome 3
Recognise the importance of lactation in the horse
Performance criteria:
a. The structure and function of the equine udder is described and related to its function
b. The major characteristics of the mare's lactation are detailed and related to the requirements of the foal
Ranges:
Puberty through to old age
Maiden mare, multiparous mare, barren mare.

Outcome 4
Evaluate the management systems used for the care of breeding stock.
Performance criteria:
a. Methods for the preparation of stock for the breeding season are evaluated and appropriate choices made.
b. Management systems for the care of the mare and stallion at teasing and covering are given and appropriate choices made in order to maximise the chances of fertilisation.
c. Management of the pregnant mare is related to her requirements and that of the developing embryo.
d. A knowledge of the processes involved in parturition is demonstrated and the situations under which expert assistance would be required are identified.
e. Post partum management of the mare is related to her reproductive and lactational status.
Ranges:
Hot blooded, warm blooded, cold blooded
Mare, stallion
Nutrition, housing, exercise
Intensive, extensive

Outcome 5
Evaluate the management systems used for the care of foals and youngstock
Performance criteria:
a. Post natal care of the foal is related to its adaptation to the extra-uterine environment.
b. Management of the mare and foal during lactation is related to their relative needs.
c. Various methods of weaning are discussed and justified choices are made.
d. The basic facility and equipment requirements for the efficient management of a stud are described.
Ranges:
Hot blooded, warm blooded, cold blooded
Mare, stallion
Nutrition, housing, exercise
Intensive, extensive

Outcome 6
Evaluate and discuss the uses and development of equine reproductive technology
Performance criteria:
a. Feasible and justifiable methods of manipulating reproduction are chosen
b. The present and potential uses of reproductive technology in the equine are identified and discussed
Ranges:
Mare, stallion
Intensive, extensive
Artificial insemination, embryo transfer, genetic engineering
PGF2x, progesterone, GnRH, oestrogen, hCG,
Light, temperature, nutrition

Brief description

At the heart of any successful equine industry is the production of quality horses. It is essential, therefore, that an equine course of this nature addresses in some detail the subject of Breeding and Stud Management. This module will address the physiology and function of the reproductive system. This knowledge will then be applied to the practical management of equines at stud.

Module Skills

Problem solving Students will be required to consult a range of information sources in order to solve the problem/scenario set out for them. They will be required to think creatively and imaginatively in order to present a rational plan to manage breeding stock over an extended period of time. Their ability to identify and solve a problem will therefore be assessed.  
Communication Students will be required to present their Stud Farm Diary coursework in an imaginative and informative manner. As such the student's ability to communicate his/her ideas and information in writing and illustrative form will be directly assessed.  
Information Technology Students will be required to submit the written supporting text using a word processing package which will help develop their IT skills.  

Reading Lists

Books
** General Text
Davies Morel, M C G (1999) Equine AI CABI 085199315X
Davies Morel, M C G (2003) Equine reproductive physiology, breeding and stud management 2nd. CABI 0851996434
Equine Research Inc (1982) Breeding management and foal development Equine Research, Texas 0935842047

Notes

This module is at CQFW Level 4