39. Disease Control in Bulls and Semen

What is the goal of venereal disease control in bulls and semen?

The goal is to prevent contamination of the deeper portions of the genital tract by minimizing the presence of organisms on the prepuce/penis or caudal portions of the female genital tract.

What are some hygienic practices recommended for disease control during breeding?

* Washing the male and female genitalia with mild soap before coitus.
* Avoiding excessive dust or dirt in the breeding shed.
* Note: The use of antiseptics in males may cause irritation and is generally not recommended

How can semen be decontaminated to prevent bacterial contamination?

Semen can be extended with diluents containing antibiotics (ATBs) such as penicillin and gentamicin. The semen and extender with antibiotics should be incubated for 15 minutes at 38˚C to allow for bactericidal effects. However, antibiotics have limited effectiveness against certain pathogenic organisms and viruses

What are examples of specific venereal pathogens?

1. *Trichomonas foetus*
2. Bovine genital campylocacteriosis

What is *Trichomonas foetus* and how is it diagnosed?

*Trichomonas foetus* is a protozoan parasite that can affect fertility in cattle. It can be diagnosed by collecting smegma samples (using dry or wet pipettes or "douche"), centrifuging the sample, culturing it in media such as Diamond's media, and examining it under a microscope to distinguish it from other protozoa.

What is the causative agent of bovine campylobacteriosis and how is infection confirmed?

The causative agent of bovine campylobacteriosis is *Campylobacter foetus* subspecies *veneralis*. Infection is confirmed by examining preputial smegma, vaginal mucus, foetal, and placental tissue.