Head of Laboratory
Staff
Zsuzsanna Keresztes – laboratory assistant
Tel.: +36 1 478 4100; Extension: 8340 (8:00–14:00)
Dr. Bence Somoskői – senior research fellow
Dr. Dóra Balassa-Török – research fellow
Dr. Mónika Bacsa – veterinarian
Dr. Boglárka Vincze – veterinarian, associate professor
About the Laboratory
The Andrology and Assisted Reproduction Laboratory of the Department of Obstetrics at the University of Veterinary Medicine provides laboratory diagnostic services in addition to conducting research activities.
You can find more information about our research group and research areas here: Research Group
Andrology and Assisted Reproduction Laboratory Services (Canine Semen)
- Basic semen analysis:
Physical examination, volume measurement, motility assessment using CASA (computer-assisted sperm analysis), determination of sperm concentration and total sperm count, and preparation of a written report – 25,000 HUF - Comprehensive semen analysis:
Basic semen analysis + morphological evaluation based on stained smears – 35,000 HUF - Basic/comprehensive semen analysis + semen cooling (4–5 °C):
Using a specialized extender developed for canine semen ensuring high viability; diluted and cooled semen is handed over to the owner – 35,000–45,000 HUF - “Semen longevity test”:
Basic/comprehensive semen analysis + cooling to 4–5 °C with a high-survival extender and daily motility assessment of the cooled semen – 45,000–55,000 HUF
Please note: measurements are not performed on weekends; therefore, semen collection should preferably be scheduled for Monday. - Semen cryopreservation:
Including test thawing, motility assessment, calculation of insemination doses, and report preparation – 95,000 HUF - Storage of frozen semen samples (with contract, minimum 1 year) – 10,000 HUF/year
- Sperm chromatin integrity (DNA) testing – 10,000 HUF
CASA- analysis
CASA- analysis
Additional Fees
In addition to laboratory costs, a clinical examination and semen collection fee is charged. This includes medical history taking, physical examination of the dog, semen collection procedure, and veterinary consultation.
You can view the prices of the Obstetrics Clinic here
Prices are valid from 01 January 2026.
Information for Dog Owners on Semen Examination and Cryopreservation
Andrological examinations of male dogs are available on weekdays at the Small Animal Clinic, Department of Obstetrics, University of Veterinary Medicine
(1078 Budapest, István u. 2.), by prior appointment.
Phone: +36 1 478 4200 – Small Animal Clinic, Obstetrics
If the andrological examination is to be supplemented with semen analysis and/or cryopreservation, this can also be arranged. Semen collection takes place at the clinic, while analysis and freezing are performed in the Andrology and Assisted Reproduction Laboratory.
Appointments must be made via the clinic, where clinicians coordinate with laboratory staff. After scheduling, semen collection is performed at the clinic, and the collected sample is then transferred to the laboratory for analysis and processing.
The laboratory accepts samples on weekdays between 08:30 and 13:00.
Semen Cryopreservation Process
Semen cryopreservation (combined with semen analysis) is a complex and time-consuming procedure. Processing includes the following steps:
- Semen analysis:
Physical examination, volume measurement, motility assessment, smear preparation, determination of sperm concentration per milliliter and total sperm count per ejaculate, centrifugation - Cryopreservation:
The centrifuged sample is diluted based on total sperm count and the target concentration per straw. The sample is cooled to 4–5 °C. After the equilibration period, the second portion of the extender is added, and the sample is filled into plastic straws. These are first exposed to liquid nitrogen vapor and then stored in liquid nitrogen at −196 °C - Test thawing:
One straw is thawed, and motility is assessed at body temperature. This provides information on post-thaw survival and allows calculation of insemination doses - Smear analysis:
Staining and microscopic evaluation - Report preparation:
Reports are sent via email; therefore, accurate contact details must be provided
Important Notes
Not all canine semen samples can be efficiently cooled or frozen. While canine sperm generally tolerates cooling, freezing, and thawing well, ice crystal formation and other cellular effects may damage sperm cells. Therefore, variability exists between individuals in post-thaw survival rates.
To minimize these effects, we use a cryopreservation extender optimized based on our own research and current scientific literature.
Legal and Health Requirements
Please bring the dog’s vaccination booklet when presenting for semen cryopreservation. Dogs must be vaccinated against:
- Rabies
- Canine distemper
- Parvovirus
(in accordance with Hungarian regulation 61/2002 FVM)
Additionally, dogs used for breeding or semen collection must undergo serological testing for Brucella canis every six months. This test can also be performed at the clinic prior to semen collection.
Export of Frozen Semen
Some countries require testing for Brucella canis and screening or vaccination against leptospirosis before semen export.
The timing of these tests varies by country, therefore it is recommended to consult breeding associations or relevant authorities in the destination country in advance if semen export is planned.