Making BETTER Bovine Babies

In this episode, Dr. Rory Nevard from the University of Sydney shares his expertise on cattle reproduction, comparing Multiple Ovulation Embryo Transfer (MOET) and In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF).

We explore differences in adoption and outcomes betweenAustralia and the United States, expected results from fresh and frozen embryos, and current research into IVF protocols.

Rory also discusses the pros and cons of using FSH, future innovations in reproductive technologies, and practical advice for breeders considering ET or IVF for the first time.

In this episode of Making Better Bovine Babies, Dr. Don Strazzeri, Technical Services Veterinarian at Vetoquinol, breaks down the fundamentals of bovine IVF (also known as IVP) and how it compares to conventional embryo transfer methods.

The spotlight is on stimulated IVF—specifically, how using FSH can improve embryo quality, success rates, and cost-effectiveness in modern breeding programs. Whether you're an experienced breeder or new to assisted reproductive technologies, this episode offers a clear, practical guide to optimizing your IVF protocols.

Topics covered include:

• What bovine IVF (IVP) involves and how it compares to conventional embryo transfer (MOET)
• Step-by-step explanation of the IVF/IVP process, from oocyte collection to embryo transfer or cryopreservation
• Differences between IVF (in vitro fertilisation) and IVP (in vitro production of embryos)
• Benefits of IVP for genetic progress
• Why IVP is growing globally and how adoption varies across countries
• The role of FSH in stimulated IVP protocols
• Evidence supporting improved embryo quality and survival rates with FSH use
• Cost-benefit considerations when including FSH in IVF programs
• Practical guidance on when and how to use FSH effectively

Texas A&M Associate Professor Dr Ky Pohler, one of Amercia's leading bovine reproductive physiologists, shares his extensive knowledge about In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) in the US market with Vetoquinol Australia's Rebecca Arnott.

Topics covered include

Cattle ET veterinarian Dr Udo Mahne and Walcha Angus seedstock producer Rob Costello of Nairn Park Angus share decades of knowledge and practical experience relating to embryo transfer programs.

For those contemplating MOET or IVF/IVP, these interviews with Vetoquinol's Rebecca Arnott provide valuable tips and insights including:

In this episode, Rebecca Arnott catches up with Dr Shane Thomson of Holbrook Vet Centre to learn about the different forms of assisted breeding available, how these are continuing to evolve and how to decide which is best suited to your situation.

Some of the advantages and disadvantages of natural mating (NM), Artificial Insemination (AI and FTAI), Embryo Transfer (ET & MOET) and In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) are discussed as well as some key differences between breeds and geographic areas.

Shane also shares his thoughts on what the future looks like, particularly given the rapid advances with genomics and embryo transfer as well as some of the key challenges facing the industry.

Vetoquinol’s Rebecca Arnott talks to AACo’s Regional Breeding and Genetics Manager, Matias Suarez and cattle repro veterinarian Dr Adam Wise to understand how such a great result was achieved from a fixed time AI (FTAI) program on wet Wagyu cows in the north.

The high cost of bulls, strong cattle prices and good seasonal conditions are driving an increase in the uptake of Artificial Insemination (AI) in commercial beef herds.  For those wondering how to get started with AI, this podcast is for you.

Here Dr Jo Connolly from Impact Veterinary Services and Vetoquinol’s Rebecca Arnott cover the essentials of starting your first AI program; from finding the right vet or AI technician, different protocols, storing and selecting semen, sourcing Cue-Mate® progesterone devices and repro hormones, the importance of nutrition, infrastructure needed and costs through to expected results and what to do after AI day.