Sheep Ireland strongly encourages breeders to genotype all sires, including sires used in artificial insemination.

Stock ram genotyping is mandatory (see post here). This is due to the increased accuracy provided by genotypes in evaluations.

Semen sample kits are ordered via your genomic ordering screen. If the ram is not in your flock account contact your relevant society or Sheep Ireland. If the ram is not physically on the farm, it should not be in your account after ordering a genotype kit.

If its a purchased stock ram, then he can be added to your account and should be genotyped using ear tissue tag. It is recommended that ear tissue sampling is taken over semen sampling if the ram is still alive. If the ram is dead and you have access to his semen, then a pellet or straw can be sent for genotyping.

How to order a semen sample kit through your genomic ordering screen? (see video below).

When a semen Kit order is placed a Sheep Ireland representative will prepare the kits and send it to the farmer within 5 working days through certified post.

Each semen sample kit will have an Instructions sheet with a strict protocol to be read. Following this protocol allows the best chance for a successful genotyping.

If you are unsure about the process or receive any errors doing so, please contact your relevant society or Sheep Ireland at 021 8820451.