Bull and ram breeding soundness evaluations

A breeding soundness evaluation entails that a male animal (bull or ram) is tested to make sure that they are fertile and free from venereal diseases. Semen is collected and evaluated under the microscope. A semen smear is prepared to evaluate semen morphology. A sheath scrape is made to test the bull for venereal diseases like trichomoniasis and campylobacter. Blood is collected from rams to test them for diseases like Brucella ovis. The genital tract including the penis, penis sheath and testes are inspected and palpated to ensure that there are no abnormalities. A general health evaluation is performed to ensure that the animal is clinically healthy.