The process of a stallion reproductive evaluation, particularly for breeding purposes, involves several important steps at Louisiana Center for Equine Reproduction. 

1. Pre-purchasing evaluation: Before purchasing a stallion for breeding purposes, a thorough reproductive evaluation is often conducted to assess the stallion's fertility potential. This evaluation helps ensure that the stallion is suitable for breeding and can produce viable offspring.

2. Assessment of damage or fertility problems: If a stallion has experienced an injury or if there are concerns about fertility, a reproductive evaluation is performed to assess the extent of damage or determine the underlying cause of the fertility problem.

3. Semen collection and evaluation: Two semen collections are typically performed, approximately one hour apart, to evaluate the quality of the stallion's semen. Each ejaculate is assessed for volume, motility (movement), concentration (sperm count), and total sperm numbers. This evaluation provides valuable information about the stallion's reproductive potential.

4. Bacterial culture assessment: Following each semen collection, samples are taken from the prepuce (sheath), urethra, and semen to assess bacterial growth. Bacterial cultures help identify the presence of any harmful bacteria that may affect semen quality or reproductive health.

5. Equine Viral Arteritis (EVA) testing: Semen and blood samples are tested for the presence of Equine Viral Arteritis, a contagious viral disease that can impact fertility and reproductive health in stallions. This testing helps ensure that the stallion is free from EVA or allows for appropriate management strategies if the disease is detected.

6. Morphology assessment: Morphology slides are made to assess the structural integrity of the sperm cells. This evaluation involves examining the size, shape, and overall appearance of sperm cells under a microscope. It helps identify any abnormalities or defects in sperm morphology, which can impact fertility.

7. Testicular evaluation: The stallion's testicles are palpated and evaluated for consistency, conformation, orientation, and size. This assessment helps identify any abnormalities or irregularities in the testicles, which can provide insights into the stallion's reproductive health and potential fertility.

By conducting a comprehensive stallion reproductive evaluation that includes semen collection and evaluation, bacterial culture assessment, EVA testing, morphology assessment, and testicular evaluation, breeders and veterinarians can gather crucial information about the stallion's fertility potential and overall reproductive health. This evaluation ensures that the stallion is suitable for breeding purposes and can contribute to successful breeding outcomes.

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Once all results are gathered, a full report is provided to the stallion owner which provides descriptive details of the findings. The report makes recommendations on breeding procedures, treatment of any pathogens present, and the general suitability of the stallion as a breeding individual.