Serving Sows with Breeding belts

Breeding belts can be used on sows in breeding stalls or when loose housed. In general do not use on gilts
1	Stimulate the breeding sow and ensure that she is in good standing heat
2	Apply the belt to the sow. It is important that non-stretchable materials are used in the girth belt. The sow will adopt a posture of lordosis (dip back) if properly applied and she is in standing heat
3	There will be no vocal objection from the sow when the belt is applied
4	At the same time as applying the belt, stimulate the sow’s udder line and flanks, mimicking the natural behaviour of the attentive boar
5	Insert the catheter either with the flat pack already attached or without in the case of a tube. With a tube connect to the catheter
6	Ensure the lock is adequate and raise the semen bag. Once the uterine contractions start to empty the semen bag, adjust the position of the semen bag holder on the belt and attach the semen bag to the belt. Do not assist the movement of semen into the sow. She must take the semen herself.

6a	If the movement of semen stops or is very slow, this may mean that the sow is not stimulated enough or that she is not in heat.
		It is permissible to provide extra stimulation to a slow sow, this should be noted in the records and the sow examined extra carefully 18-24 days post-service. Never squeeze the semen into the sow, you will be wasting your time.
7		After the flat pack or semen tube is empty, fold the catheter over with the flat pack or seal the end of the catheter with the tube. Do not remove the belt or the catheter at this time. Allow continued boar contact. Mark the sow to indicate mating has taken place.
8		Remove the belt. Leave the catheter in place. Continue with boar exposure. If the sow starts to lie down remove the catheter. Otherwise remove the catheter after five minutes
9		A satisfied sow post mating. Any sow which fails to settle after mating should be noted and watched extra carefully at 18-24 days post-mating for a probable return.