If you're in the business of breeding dogs or participating in canine reproductive research, you understand the importance of shipping dog semen reliably and efficiently. Traditional methods have often been fraught with challenges, leading to inconsistent results and unreliable outcomes.
However, there's a game-changer in the field – Shipmate. In this article, we'll explore how Shipmate, developed and manufactured by Innovative Technology Ltd. in Elk City, Oklahoma, has revolutionized the process of shipping chilled dog semen. With thousands of consecutive successful shipments under its belt,
Shipmate is rewriting the rulebook for canine reproductive logistics.
The Traditional Dilemma
Shipping chilled dog semen traditionally involves using a passive system that relies on ice packs in the shipping container to cool the specimen. However, this method lacks precise control over the cooling rate and final temperature. The result? Inconsistent semen viability, even on shipments that may take up to 3-4 days to reach their destination. This unpredictability can be frustrating and costly for breeders and researchers alike.
The Shipmate Advantage
Shipmate steps in as a game-changing solution to this age-old dilemma. At its core is a double-walled stainless steel flask measuring 130mm tall and 90mm in diameter. This flask has a capacity of 350ml, which is ample for shipping multiple samples together. Powered by a D-sized alkaline battery, Shipmate offers reliability and ease of use that traditional methods can't match.
Precise Temperature Control
One of the key differentiators of Shipmate is its ability to control both the cooling rate and the final temperature of the specimen with precision. Inside the insulated foam shipping box, the double-walled stainless steel flask is surrounded by ice packs. However, Shipmate doesn't rely solely on these ice packs, as they could cool the specimen too rapidly, causing Cold Shock and potentially damaging the semen.
The Technology Behind Shipmate
Shipmate's secret lies in its sophisticated technology, which includes a microprocessor, temperature sensor, heater, and memory. These components work in harmony to ensure the specimen is handled with the utmost care during shipping. Here's how it works:
Cooling at the Ideal Rate: Initially, the specimen's temperature is measured, and a small amount of heat is added to the flask, controlling the cooling rate to the ideal rate of 0.5 °C per minute until the sample reaches 18 °C.
Slow, Gentle Cooling: Once the sample reaches 18 °C, Shipmate takes over, cooling the sample very slowly at a rate of 1 °C every 20 minutes until it reaches the critical temperature of 5 °C. This slow cooling rate is necessary to prevent Cold Shock, ensuring the viability of the semen.
Steady at 5°C: Once the sample reaches the optimum temperature of 5 °C, Shipmate maintains this temperature for the remainder of the journey. It takes approximately 4.5 hours to properly reach the 5 °C plateau.
Unmatched Convenience
Perhaps one of the most compelling aspects of Shipmate is its ease of use. There's no complicated setup involved. Simply load the insulated foam box with ice packs, insert a fresh D-cell alkaline battery, and Shipmate takes care of the rest. For longer trips, additional ice and a larger insulated box may be required, but the process remains hassle-free.
In the world of canine reproduction, the reliability and success of semen shipments are paramount. Shipmate, with its cutting-edge technology and precise control over temperature, is a game-changer for breeders and researchers alike. Say goodbye to the inconsistency of traditional methods and embrace the future of safe and reliable semen shipments with Shipmate.
FAQs on Shipping Dog Semen
How long does it take to ship dog semen using Shipmate?
Shipmate takes approximately 4.5 hours to cool the sample to the optimum temperature of 5°C.
Can Shipmate be used for longer journeys?
Yes, for longer trips, additional ice and a larger insulated box may be required to maintain the desired temperature.
What makes Shipmate different from traditional methods of shipping chilled semen?
Shipmate offers precise temperature control, preventing Cold Shock and ensuring consistent semen viability.
Who manufactures Shipmate, and where is it developed?
Shipmate is developed and manufactured by Innovative Technology Ltd. in Elk City, Oklahoma.
How does Shipmate enhance the success of semen shipments?
Shipmate's technology controls the cooling rate and final temperature of the specimen with precision, leading to higher success rates in semen shipments.