Have you ever wondered who is the face at the end of the phone when you call us? Amie, Leanne or Tahnay, three of our experienced reception team, are often the first people who speak to you when the phone rings. They are keen to help you whatever the reason for your call - either making an appointment, arranging a vet to speak with you, referring you through to our nursing team for patient updates or ordering a special product from our suppliers....

We have three incoming phone lines which we answer as soon as we can - occasionally we find all lines are in use for short periods. We prefer to answer your call in person rather than through an answering system so please try again a minute or two later if you do get the engaged tone.

Unfortunately, some bulls are just not up to scratch. Failure to weed out the duds before they cause problems can be expensive! To help avoid this scenario, the bull breeding soundness evaluation (or VBBSE) was first devised over 60 years ago. Today, with the benefit of improved knowledge and technology, the VBBSE represents the best insurance available against bull infertility.

What is a VBBSE?

The Bull Breeding Soundness Evaluation (BBSE) is a relatively quick and economic procedure for screening bulls prior to sale or use. The Australian Cattle Veterinarians (ACV) have developed world recognized procedures and standards for conducting BBSEs and for computerizing the relevant information (see publication “Veterinary Bull Breeding Soundness Evaluation”, ACV office).

What does it involve?

Usually, the following procedures are followed:
1. A general physical examination.
2. A reproductive examination (including measurement of testicle size or scrotal circumference).
3. Collection and examination of semen (particularly for sperm motility and morphology).

In addition, a libido/serving capacity test may be included, as may special tests for diseases (e.g. vibriosis or trichomonosis). Although these procedures add predictive value to the BBSE and may be indicated in some situations, they are not mandatory.

Following these tests, bulls are placed into the following categories;
Satisfactory: All factors assessed were consistent with ACV standards. No risk factors for reduced fertility were identified.
Unsatisfactory: Some factors assessed were not consistent with ACV standards.
Q Classification Deferred: Although not all factors met ACV standards, this probably would not preclude using the bull under certain conditions. Appropriate commentary to be provided.
NT Not tested: Factor(s) could not be adequately evaluated. A retest is often recommended.

A number of trials in Australia and overseas have shown that bulls generally perform according to their classification (although individual bulls may prove to be exceptions). The economic benefits of implementing VBBSEs have been well documented and will be discussed in an upcoming newsletter.