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Q.
Are there any tests to
determine when to mate my dog?
A. Yes. There are two simple tests
available at Sandy Animal Clinic.
1. Vaginal smear test. A
simple microscopic examination of vaginal cells will detect changes in
cell appearance and numbers. This has been used for many years and is
reasonably reliable. It is non-invasive and does not cause discomfort
for the female.
2. Progesterone test. This
determines changes in the progesterone level in the blood. This test is
very sensitive and has become popular due to its accuracy.
Both tests can be performed at the
veterinary practice. The blood test gives a very good indication of when
your female will ovulate and when mating is most likely to be
successful. It is very useful for females that have a history of
unsuccessful mating or for breeding dogs that have to travel
considerable distances to the stud. Using these diagnostic tests will
increase the chances of a successful breeding.
____________________________________
This
client information sheet is based on material written by Ernest E. Ward
Jr., DVM
©
Copyright 2002 Lifelearn Inc.
Used
with permission under license. TIME \@ "MMMM d, yyyy" March 3, 2010.
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