
As a responsible pet owner, you want the best for your furry friend, and that includes ensuring their reproductive health is in top shape. Spaying or neutering your dog between 4 to 6 months of age is a common practice to prevent unwanted breeding.
Your dog's reproductive cycle typically lasts around 2-3 weeks, with a heat cycle occurring every 6-8 months, depending on factors like breed and size. This means your dog can become pregnant quickly if not spayed or neutered.
A skilled veterinarian can perform a spay or neuter surgery to prevent unwanted breeding and reduce the risk of certain health issues, such as uterine infections and testicular cancer. This surgery can also help curb undesirable behaviors like roaming and aggression.
Regular check-ups with your veterinarian can help identify any reproductive issues early on, allowing for prompt treatment and ensuring your dog leads a healthy life.
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Reproduction Services
If you're interested in breeding your dog, it's essential to have a reproductive specialist doctor evaluate and treat any reproductive disorders. You can find canine reproduction specialists in various locations, such as Glen Allen, VA, or Freeland, MI.
A comprehensive reproductive exam and fertility discussion can help determine the best breeding strategy for your dog. This exam typically includes a thorough physical examination and may involve various tests, such as OFA Hips and Elbows testing.
Progesterone testing is a crucial part of canine reproduction, and it can be done in-house or sent out to a lab. The cost of progesterone testing varies, with some clinics charging around $133.75 for a same-day test. Brucellosis testing is also essential, as it's a contagious disease that can end a female's breeding career and may require euthanasia in males.
Semen evaluation and semen collection are also important services offered by reproductive specialists. A semen evaluation typically includes a microscopic examination of semen quality, while semen collection may involve a fee, which can range from $120 to $125, depending on the clinic.
Insemination services are also available, including surgical insemination, which can cost around $525. Artificial insemination without surgery is also an option, with a cost of $150, provided the owner supplies the semen.
Reproductive specialists can also provide hormone testing, cycle timing, vaginal cultures, vaginal smears, vaginoscophy, pregnancy diagnostics, and OFA evaluations. It's essential to find a reputable and experienced reproductive specialist to ensure the best possible outcome for your dog.
Here's a list of common reproductive services offered by canine reproductive specialists:
- Hormone Testing/Cycle Timing
- Vaginal Cultures
- Vaginal Smears
- Vaginoscophy
- Pregnancy Diagnostics
- Inseminations
- OFA Hip, Elbow, and Patella Evaluations
Breeding and Fertility
At our clinic, we understand the importance of responsible breeding and fertility management in dogs. We offer a range of services to help you achieve successful breeding outcomes.
We can help identify fertility issues in female dogs, including conditions such as intersex, cystic ovaries, and reproductive tumors. Our advanced diagnostic capabilities also include transcervical endometrial biopsy, a technique that we helped pioneer.
Our team of experts will work with you to develop a breeding plan tailored to your dog's needs. We offer progesterone testing to determine breeding timing, as well as hands-on techniques such as vaginal cytology and vaginoscopy to ensure accurate results.
We can also help you induce a heat cycle in your female dog, which may be necessary if you've missed breeding opportunities or conception has failed. This can be done using various hormones or hormone-like substances.
For male dogs, we provide a comprehensive evaluation of subfertility, including a detailed history, physical examination, and advanced semen analysis. We also offer testicular biopsy, a service that's not available at many other practices in the region.
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Our clinic is equipped to provide same-day results for quantitative progesterone testing, which is essential for successful breeding management. We also offer LH testing and various insemination options, including vaginal, transcervical, and surgical inseminations.
If you're interested in alternatives to spaying or neutering, we can provide you with information on the Suprelorin implant, which has been used successfully in Europe and Australia. However, please note that this is not approved for use in the United States, and special FDA approval is required for specific cases.
Here are some of the reproductive disorders we can help manage:
- Medical treatment of pyometra (allowing for future breeding)
- Medical mis-mate management
- Evaluation and treatment of high-risk pregnancy
- Evaluation and treatment of luteal insufficiency
- Uterine and testicular biopsy
Spay/Neuter Alternatives
If you're considering canine reproduction services, you may be wondering about spay/neuter alternatives. These alternatives can be beneficial for certain breeds or owners who want to retain their dog's reproductive capabilities.
Some breeds, like the Afghan Hound and Basenji, are naturally sterile. This means they can't reproduce, but they still require spay/neuter surgery for health benefits.
For breeds that can reproduce, a vasectomy or hysterectomy can be an alternative to spaying or neutering. These procedures prevent breeding but allow the dog to retain its reproductive organs.
In some cases, breeders may choose to use artificial insemination or embryo transfer to breed their dogs. This can be a more controlled and precise way of breeding, but it still requires intact dogs.
Breeding intact dogs can increase the risk of certain health problems, such as uterine infections and testicular cancer. However, some breeders and owners may choose to breed intact dogs for their own health benefits, such as reduced risk of certain cancers.
Testing and Evaluation
Testing and evaluation are crucial steps in ensuring the health and fertility of your dog. We offer a range of tests to identify potential reproductive issues, including brucellosis, which can be transmitted to humans and cause reproductive problems in dogs.
To determine the ideal time to breed your dog, we use a combination of in-house, same-day testing for canine progesterone and vaginal cytology, which is less expensive than most clinics charge for progesterone alone. This combination test costs $133.75.
Our comprehensive reproductive exam includes collection and microscopic evaluation of semen, and an overall exam of the dog to determine suitability for breeding. This exam costs $187.25. We also offer semen evaluation, which can be done by the owner providing the specimen, for $85.60.
Here are the various reproductive tests and evaluations we offer:
We also offer OFA health clearances, including OFA, PENNhip, German hip clearances, eye exams, cardiac exams, and all DNA testing.
Brucellosis Testing
Brucellosis Testing is a crucial step in ensuring the health and safety of your dog, particularly if you're planning to breed them. It's a contagious bacterial infection that can cause reproductive issues in dogs and even be transmitted to humans.
The test costs $84.26 and is a requirement for all breeding dogs, including both males and females. It's essential to test your dog regularly, especially if they're actively breeding, as the infection can be transmitted during breeding.
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At Budget Vet, they offer in-house testing for brucellosis, which can be done same-day. They also recommend testing every six months for actively breeding males and females.
Here's a quick rundown of the costs associated with brucellosis testing:
Remember, brucellosis is a serious disease that can end the breeding career of a female dog and may require euthanasia in males. It's always better to be safe than sorry, so make sure to get your dog tested regularly.
Reproductive Testing
Reproductive Testing is a crucial aspect of ensuring the health and well-being of your furry friends. Reproductive Testing can help identify potential issues and optimize breeding success.
Kokopelli Assisted Reproductive Services offers a range of reproductive testing services, including OFA health clearances, which evaluate a dog's health for conditions such as hip and elbow dysplasia, hyperthyroidism, and heart and eye conditions.
A comprehensive reproductive exam is also essential, which includes a thorough examination of the female dog's reproductive system, as well as a semen evaluation for male dogs. This exam can help identify any underlying issues that may affect breeding success.

Brucellosis testing is another critical aspect of reproductive testing, as it can help prevent the spread of this contagious bacterial infection. According to Dr. Mary Sebzda, Brucellosis testing is essential every six months in actively breeding males and females.
Progesterone testing is also a valuable tool, which can help predict the ideal time to breed your dog for a successful pregnancy. This test can be done in combination with vaginal cytology, which is used to predict ovulation and breeding timing.
The following table summarizes the reproductive testing services offered by Kokopelli Assisted Reproductive Services:
These tests can help identify potential issues and optimize breeding success, ensuring the health and well-being of your furry friends.
Surgical Procedures
We offer a range of surgical procedures to support canine reproduction. Our team is experienced in performing canine caesarean sections, which are recommended for bitches at high risk of problems during natural whelping.
Elective c-sections are a safe and reasonable option, even for bitches that may otherwise whelp naturally. We pay close attention to details that can impact outcomes, including pre-procedure testing and pain management.
Our surgical procedures also include ovariectomy, which involves removing the ovaries and leaving the uterus in place. This procedure prevents unwanted pregnancies, reduces the risk of certain diseases, and decreases the chance of mammary cancer in dogs.
Here are some key differences between elective c-section and ovariectomy:
Laparoscopic Spay
A laparoscopic spay, also known as a LOVE spay, is a minimally invasive procedure that removes the ovaries from healthy dogs.
This procedure has been shown to be a less painful alternative to traditional spays, resulting in a faster recovery and less trauma to the body.
Activity restriction is only recommended for the first 2-3 days after a LOVE spay, compared to 7-14 days for a traditional spay.
This is because the smaller incision and less invasive nature of the procedure reduce the risk of complications and promote a quicker healing process.
Removing the ovaries prevents unwanted pregnancies and decreases the chance of mammary cancer in dogs, making it a popular choice for many pet owners.
However, it's worth noting that the ovaries and uterus are not removed completely in this procedure, unlike a traditional spay.
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Caesarean Section

A caesarean section, also known as a c-section, is a surgical procedure that can be lifesaving for both mother and puppies. We recommend a scheduled elective c-section for high-risk canines, including brachycephalic breeds, those with a personal or line history of whelping problems, or bitches with very large or very small litters for their size.
Pre-procedure care is crucial to ensure a smooth and safe surgery. Expectant mothers receive a preoperative ultrasound to evaluate fetal health and maturity, reverse-progesterone testing to determine when she is entering the first stage of labor, and an Adaptil collar that emits calming pheromones to ease her anxiety.
Opioids are not used prior to puppy removal, instead, local analgesia is used initially, then opioids are administered for pain management after puppies are removed. This approach helps minimize the risk of complications and ensures the mother's comfort during the procedure.
Puppy safety is our top priority. Oxygen supplementation is available for any struggling neonate, and acupuncture is used to help it start breathing. Once revived, each puppy is placed in a state-of-the-art canine incubator and closely monitored.
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Nursing and feeding are also carefully supervised. We ensure each puppy receives colostrum during the first nursing, and if the bitch doesn’t have milk, we can administer hyperimmunized plasma to allow passive transfer of immunity. We also train owners how to safely tube-feed puppies, if necessary.
Each puppy receives a detailed evaluation with APGAR scoring after surgery to guide owners about which puppies are thriving and which need extra attention. This helps owners provide the best possible care for their puppies during the critical post-op period.
Veterinary Care
A comprehensive reproductive exam is a crucial step in canine reproduction services. This exam includes a fertility discussion, health testing, and a physical exam to determine if your dog is a healthy, good breeding candidate.
Rogue Valley Veterinary Hospital offers a range of reproductive services, including OFA Hips and Elbows testing, PennHip radiographs, and thyroid, patella, and cardiac testing.
To ensure a healthy breeding process, veterinarians like those at Rogue Valley Veterinary Hospital recommend a breeding exam/consult before your pet is in heat or needed to be used as a stud. This helps determine if your dog is old enough, healthy, and health tested based on breed standards.
Here are some key considerations for breeding timing:
- First progesterone appointment should take place 5 to 7 days into the heat cycle.
- Progesterone testing determines the best time to breed based on your breeding plans.
- Breeding timing is crucial for success, and veterinarians can assist in planning.
Rogue Valley Vet Guidelines
At Rogue Valley Veterinary Hospital, they have formalized a set of standardized reproductive recommendations to promote high-quality and responsible decision-making when it comes to canine reproduction plans.
Their initial reproduction exam/appointment is crucial, as it determines if your dog is a healthy, good breeding candidate. This exam should be done before your pet is in heat or needed to be used as a stud.
Rogue Valley's priority is the health and well-being of their patients, and they want to educate you on responsible practices and work together to accomplish them.
They have a set of guidelines that outline their breeding policies, including not assisting with breeding a dog under 1 year of age or on a first heat cycle, and recommending health testing.
Here are some key points from their breeding guidelines:
- RVVH will not assist with breeding a dog under 1 year of age or on a first heat cycle.
- They recommend health testing and reserve the right to deny breeding services if a pet has outward medical conditions that could be deemed heritable or affect the health of the pet during pregnancy.
- They do not recommend breeding dogs with behavioral issues that would interfere with basic handling or jeopardize safety of the staff assisting.
Breeding timing is a crucial step in the process, and Rogue Valley recommends starting to make breeding plans during a first progesterone appointment, which should take place 5 to 7 days into the heat cycle.
Reproductive Disorders Management
Managing reproductive disorders in dogs requires a thorough approach. Medical treatment of pyometra, a life-threatening condition, can be done to allow for future breeding.
Medical mis-mate management is crucial to prevent unwanted litters. This involves evaluating and treating high-risk pregnancies to ensure a safe delivery.
Pyometra treatment, for example, can be done to allow for future breeding. Evaluation and treatment of luteal insufficiency, a condition that affects ovulation, are also essential.
A uterine biopsy can help diagnose reproductive disorders, while a testicular biopsy can diagnose testicular issues. These biopsies can be performed to diagnose and treat various reproductive disorders.
Here's a list of reproductive disorders management services:
- Medical treatment of pyometra (allowing for future breeding)
- Medical mis-mate management
- Evaluation and treatment of high risk pregnancy
- Evaluation and treatment of luteal insufficiency
- Uterine and testicular biopsy
Pregnancy and Safety
We can determine a dog's whelping window more precisely with gestational aging, even if we don't know the ovulation date. This is especially helpful for clients who don't have that information.
Our ultrasound and digital radiography capabilities allow us to provide a more accurate estimate of the whelping date, so you can plan ahead with confidence.
Predicting Birth Date

We can determine an animal's whelping window more precisely using gestational aging, which is especially helpful for clients who don't have ovulation dates for their animals.
Our practice offers gestational aging using full array of ultrasound and digital radiography, making us the only one in the Sacramento area to do so.
This allows us to accurately predict the birth date, giving you peace of mind and helping you prepare for the new arrival.
Pet Pregnancy Safety
Pet Pregnancy Safety is crucial to ensure the health and well-being of both the mother and her unborn kittens.
Expectant mothers should avoid strenuous activities, such as jumping or running, to prevent injury to themselves or their unborn kittens.
As mentioned in the "Common Pregnancy Complications" section, an expectant mother's body undergoes significant changes, making her more susceptible to accidents.
A pregnant cat's diet should be rich in nutrients, including protein and calcium, to support the growth and development of her kittens.

According to the "Nutrition and Pregnancy" section, a pregnant cat's daily caloric intake should increase by 25-50% to meet the needs of her growing kittens.
Regular veterinary check-ups can help identify potential issues early on and ensure the mother and her kittens receive proper care.
A pregnant cat should be kept indoors to protect her from potential harm, such as traffic accidents or fights with other animals, as mentioned in the "Outdoor Risks" section.
Management and Care
We take a comprehensive approach to breeding management, using a combination of progesterone testing and hands-on techniques like vaginal cytology and vaginoscopy to ensure successful breeding. This allows us to interpret results more precisely and tailor our care to each dog's unique needs.
Our progesterone testing is fast and affordable, with same-day analysis available. This helps us determine the best breeding timing for each dog.
We use this breadth and depth of knowledge to expertly tailor our care to each dog's unique needs, providing the most comprehensive range of assisted reproduction services for canines in Northern California.
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Healthy Program

As part of a healthy breeding program, preventative care is crucial to ensure the well-being of both the breeding dogs and their puppies.
Basic core vaccines such as DHPP and Rabies are a must, and fecal and heartworm tests are also required to prevent infectious diseases that can affect fertility and breeding success.
We recommend keeping your pet's vaccine history and titer testing records up to date, and sending them to us if they've been kept somewhere else.
Preventing internal and external parasites is also vital for healthy thriving puppies, and we can help you find safe products to use at all stages of your dog's life.
A breeding bitch should be at least over the age of 1, as we do not recommend artificially inseminating a dog under a year of age or on its first heat cycle.
Health testing is also essential, and we encourage our clients to follow their breed club's standard health testing recommendations or visit the Canine Health Information center for breed testing requirements.
We can help complete health testing for OFA Patellas, thyroid, and hips/elbows, and Penn Hip testing, and genetic testing can be done through websites like Vetgen or Embark.
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Management (including PG testing)

We offer a range of services to help you manage your dog's reproductive health.
Our team uses progesterone testing to determine breeding timing, and we also perform same-day, affordable progesterone analysis. This allows us to provide more precise results and increase the chances of successful breeding.
We understand that every dog is unique, and that's why we offer a range of assisted reproduction services.
Our services include quantitative progesterone testing, which is performed in-house and provides same-day results if the blood sample is drawn by 4pm weekdays or 9am on Saturday.
We also offer LH testing, vaginal, transcervical, and surgical inseminations, and medical treatment for reproductive disorders such as pyometra and luteal insufficiency.
Here are some of the reproductive disorders we can help manage:
- Pyometra (medical treatment to allow for future breeding)
- Medical mis-mate management
- High risk pregnancy (evaluation and treatment)
- Luteal insufficiency (evaluation and treatment)
- Uterine and testicular biopsy
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