Artificial insemination in horses is a procedure that requires thorough knowledge of the structure and functions of all reproductive organs of a horse. Even thoroughly trained equine specialists need to exercise extreme care when undertaking this procedure with specialised instruments due to the fact that the tissues in and around the area operated on are susceptible to tearing. The South African Veterinary Council (SAVC) is against training of farmers due to the concern that insufficiently trained person(s) may likely cause tearing of the rectal tissues causing unnecessary complications and suffering to the animals.