Breeding Soundness Evaluation of the Stallion

This chapter outlines the components of a breeding soundness examination (BSE). A standardized stallion BSE form is available through the Society for Theriogenology. Each stallion should be properly and positively identified prior to evaluation; registration name and number, age, and breed are recorded. A complete breeding history should be obtained as past breeding results are the best indicators of a stallion's previous fertility level. The serum of stallions should be tested for the presence of antibodies against equine arteritis virus, the agent that causes equine viral arteritis. The penis, prepuce, sheath, scrotum, and scrotal contents are routinely evaluated during a BSE. Microbiological aerobic culture swabs are routinely collected as part of a complete BSE. Examination of the internal genitalia of a stallion per rectum is not always performed as part of a reproductive evaluation, unless indicated by an abnormal history, physical examination findings, or abnormal semen parameters.