A comparison of six methods used for detecting pregnancy in sheep

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Abstract
The speed and accuracy of 4 ultrasonic devices (Scanopreg, Pregmatic 3, Medata external probe and Medata rectal probe) were compared with udder scoring and harnessed vasectomized rams as methods of pregnancy diagnosis in 177 ewes, 59 of which were non-pregnant. When using the Scanopreg in ewes of greater than 50 days gestation, accuracy in pregnant ewes averaged 98% and in non-pregnant ewes 87%. The Pregmatic 3 was 97% accurate in pregnant ewes after 50 days gestation and was 96% accurate in non-pregnant ewes. Ewes were examined at between 85 and 185/h using these devices. The Medata external probe was 99% accurate in pregnant ewes of greater than 110 days gestation but less accurate in early gestation. This instrument averaged 89% accuracy in non-pregnant ewes and an examination rate of 29 to 35 ewes/h was achieved. The Medata rectal probe averaged 85% accuracy in pregnant ewes after 70 days gestation. Accuracy averaged 94% in non-pregnant ewes. Ewes were examined at between 35 and 59/h using this device. After 130 days gestation 84% of ewes had firm, obviously enlarged udders and another 14% had slight to moderate udder development. After 130 days gestation thick, clear udder secretions were expressed from 18% of ewes and thick, milky udder secretions were expressed from 8%. Harnessed vasectomized rams raddled one of 118 pregnant ewes (an accuracy in pregnant sheep of 99%) and raddled 53% of non pregnant ewes. The ultrasonic pregnancy testing devices have a commercial role, especially as aids to decision making. Udder scoring may be useful alone or in conjunction with other pregnancy diagnosis methods. Harnessed vasectomized rams are a simple inexpensive method for the diagnosis of pregnancy but they have limited value as expression of estrus is necessary for optimal results.

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