Improve conception rates

When considering breeding your bitch, ovulation timing is key for being successful and improving conception rates. In order to obtain the ovulation date, certain events have to be noted such as the following: knowing the first day the bitch comes into season, starting progesterone testing on day 5 or 6 of the cycle, and correlating vaginal cytology with progesterone results. 

You might wonder “what is progesterone?” and “how can I test it?” 

Progesterone (P4) is the most important hormone in female dog reproduction which allows us to time ovulation, parturition, and reproduction abnormalities. Progesterone levels are assessed by obtaining a blood sample for laboratory testing.

We have the ability to run progesterone tests in-house. This allows us to have same-day results and run daily tests if needed or recommended by our veterinarian. By obtaining these quantitative results, we are able to estimate when ovulation occurs which will help us determine the bitch’s most fertile day. Ovulation timing is also necessary in order to determine when to inseminate depending on the method of insemination (TCI, Surgical insemination, vaginal insemination)  and type of semen being utilized (fresh, chilled, or frozen). 

Always keep in mind, each bitch may have a different cycle. We follow certain guidelines that help us determine the best timeline for breeding, but occasionally, patients do not follow the latter. 

Please carefully review the following details:

 

Breeding Requirements:

• Pets must be at least 18 months old and under 7 years of age. Proof of age is required.
• A pre-breeding examination is required at your first appointment to ensure your pet is in good physical health prior to breeding. A breeding exam is required for each cycle you plan to breed.
• Proof of previous vaccinations (DA2PP & Rabies) administered by a licensed veterinarian is required.
• An up-to-date Rabies vaccine and DA2PP vaccine administered by a licensed veterinarian are required.
• A negative heartworm test within the last 6 months is required.
• We only assist with same-breed breedings.
• We do not accept vaccinations given at home and/or by owners.

Please note: We can update vaccines during your breeding exam if needed. However, previous vaccine history is still required and must have been administered at least 1 week prior to the breeding exam.

Boarding for Breeding Requirements:

In addition to the breeding requirements, the following criteria apply for boarding breeding dogs (male or female):

• Dogs with outdated vaccine history must have their vaccines updated at least 3-4 weeks prior to boarding.
• Required vaccinations for boarding include DA2PP, Bordetella, and Rabies.

All boarding dogs must meet the necessary health and vaccination criteria to ensure a safe environment for all pets in our care.