Material is organized into 5 parts for easy and ready use, broadening the usefulness of the book, making it the most comprehensive, hands-on AI manual available. This manual prepares users for the "real world" by exposing them to the latest technology and techniques used in the reproduction and the practice of artificial insemination (AI) in livestock.Part One provides information on the advantages and considerations of artificial insemination, basic livestock genetics, the anatomy and reproductive processes of the cow and bull, and semen collection methods. It relates statistics on AI usage and general information about NAAB and CSS. Part Two deals with semen characteristics, including evaluation, processing, and extension; freezing and cryogenic storage; and care of the refrigerator unit. The various tests for semen quality are discussed in detail as is custom selection of semen. Part Three explains insemination techniques for dairy and beef cattle, inseminator training, pregnancy determination in cattle, conception rates, and breeding problems. The exercise on "Embryo Transfer and Related Practices" explains the advances and techniques involved in the field. Part Four includes an overview of sire selection, sire health, sire management, AI organization, and career opportunities.Part Five explains the use and techniques for artificial insemination in dairy goats and other farm animals.For herd operators and persons involved in genetic development—of particular use to people interested in livestock improvement. For those who are anticipating careers in some phase of the AI industry.
Jere R. Mitchell is Service Director for Certified Semen Services (CSS) and Technical Director for the National Association of Animal Breeders (NAAB). He conducts the national service program for the AI industry to review and audit semen production practices of participants and provides technical support to NAAB. He works closely with various NAAB committees and, in consultation with the Research Committee, coordinates the NAAB Research Program. Mitchell earned his B.S. in animal science from Kansas State University and his M.S. in dairy science from Virginia Polytechnic Institute and undertook advanced studies at Penn State University, where he was also an instructor in the Department of Dairy and Animal Science. Mitchell served for two years in the U.S. Army. Prior to joining CSS/NAAB in 1988, Mitchell worked in technical and research areas for various organizations in the AI industry. He has authored or co-authored several research publications. Mitchell is a member of the American Dairy Science Association and a member of the American Society of Animal Science and he is an associate member of The Society for Theriogenology. He is a native of Cortland, New York. Mitchell and his wife, Becky, are the parents of two grown sons, Jefferson and Wil.
Dr. Gordon A. Doak, a native of Missouri, grew up on a diversified dairy farm. He received his M.S. in dairy husbandry and his Ph.D. in reproductive physiology from the University of Missouri in 1970 and 1974, respectively. Following two years of post-doctoral studies, he began work with NAAB and CSS in August 1976.
As NAAB Technical Director, he worked with the technical and research aspects of NAAB. Simultaneously he served as CSS Service Director, administering the programs of NAAB's subsidiary, Certified Semen Services. During his tenure at NAAB, he has worked closely with many standing committees and provided support in the technical and international areas.
Dr. Doak became President of NAAB/CSS on January 1, 1988. In this position he works closely with the Board of Directors of NAAB and CSS in formulation of objectives, goals, and policies, and he administers the association's programs and activities. He provides liaison between the Board of Directors, committees of the association, the membership, and allied industry groups.
He has served on many industry committees, including NCDHIP Policy Board, NDHIA Quality Certification Committee, U.S. Dairy Genetics Council, Foreign Agriculture Service's Agricultural Technical Advisory Committee for Trade in Livestock and Livestock Products, Joint Council on Dairy Cattle Breeding, and U.S. Livestock Genetics Export. He is a member of the American Dairy Science Association, the American Society of Animal Science, and the American Society of Association Executives.
