Monday - Saturday 7:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. | Closed Sunday

Monday - Saturday 7:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.
Closed Sunday

Call  (719) 219-8569

Call  (719) 219-8569

Breeding and Reproductive Veterinary Services

Leading Reproductive Services

Dr. Brittany Shumack, DVM
Dr. Brittany Shumack, DVM

Dr. Shumack leads our reproductive services. She is a member of the Society for Theriogenology, and is working towards her board certification in Theriogenology. Dr Shumack is an award recipient of clinical proficiency in theriogenology from Auburn University.

Our entire staff is familiar with the dedication and investment that breeders put into their animals. We are here to help you have success in your breeding program, whether you are a first time breeder or have years of experience.

Breeding soundness exam

The breeding soundness examination involves a complete and systematic evaluation of the reproductive potential for a male and female. A thorough history will be taken as well as a physical exam. We will also discuss any health clearances that may be recommended for your breed. In males, evaluation of the prostate, testicles, and penis is included. Semen collection and evaluation may also be recommended for males. In the female a vaginal exam will be performed as well as an exam of the mammary chain. Breeding soundness exams are vital in finding out if there are any issues that could lead to a failed mating, failed inseminations, or problems during gestation and whelping.

In-house progesterone

When planning a breeding timing is everything. The best way to know when your bitch is ready to breed is through progesterone timing. Whether you are planning a natural breeding or any type of insemination, knowing your bitch’s progesterone level will let you know when your pet is ovulating and the best time to breed. Our in-house progesterone testing allows us to get results to you within a few hours. Sometimes multiple progesterone tests are required to determine the best time for breeding. We recommend scheduling your first progesterone on day five of the heat cycle, this recommendation may change based on your pet’s history.

Inseminations

Vaginal inseminations:
Vaginal inseminations are great options for proven bitches and dogs. The use of fresh or good quality chilled semen is generally recommended.

Trans-cervical inseminations:
Trans-cervical inseminations are found to have the same success rate as surgical inseminations. The semen is deposited through the cervix into the uterine body with the use of a scope. No anesthesia is required and sedation is rarely needed. Trans-cervical inseminations are a great option for all types of semen (frozen, chilled, fresh).

Surgical inseminations:
Surgical inseminations are recommended for our older patients or those who have had previous problems with fertility. A surgical insemination allows for observation of the gross anatomy of the uterus and ovaries during the procedure.

Semen collection and evaluation

Whether it is your dogs first collection or 100th we can perform collections for clean out or collections and full evaluations. An evaluation includes motility, morphology, and a full sperm count. We also look for other cells or bacteria in the sample. Allowing long periods of time between collections can increase the number of secondary abnormalities seen on semen morphology. If there are concerns after evaluation we can then address the concerns and come up with a plan for improvement of semen quality.

Fresh chilled semen shipping and longevity testing

We offer shipping of fresh chilled semen with our different varieties of extenders.

Before shipping a longevity test can be used to ensure longevity of the semen with the extenders we have available.

Pregnancy ultrasound and Puppy count x-rays

Ultrasound:
Ultrasounds can be performed 25 days after ovulation to confirm pregnancies. At this stage we can also assess the viability of the fetuses and ensure a healthy pregnancy. Pregnancy ultrasounds allow you as the owner to confirm and plan for the upcoming litter. An accurate puppy count can not be performed on ultrasound, but a rough estimate can be given.

Radiographs:
Radiographs can be performed 55 days after ovulation for an accurate puppy count. This can be very beneficial during whelping to ensure delivery of all of the puppies. We can also measure fetal heads to determine if a dystocia (difficult birth) is likely to happen. Please note that while we would like to provide an accurate fetal count this can be very difficult if the bitch eats the morning of the radiographs, or if there are a very large amount of puppies.

Brucellosis screening

We offer in-house screening for Brucellosis, a zoonotic disease that can be detrimental to breeding programs.

Genetic screening tests

We can work with you for obtaining any samples you need for genetic testing of your pet.

OFA screenings

Please take the time to overview the OFA screenings we offer and view the applications. If you would like to schedule an appointment for your screening, or if you have any questions about the procedure/requirements for each database please give us a call. The applications are in PDF format and may be filled out online and printed so that you may bring them to your scheduled appointment.

If you would like more information on what tests are recommended for your breed please visit: https://www.ofa.org/browse-by-breed

 

 

 

  • OFA Congenital Cardiac
    Please note that we can only perform the cardiac auscultation. If echocardiogram is required we would be happy to recommend some of our local specialists.
  • https://www.ofa.org/pdf/cardapp_bw.pdf

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cesarean sections

Natural whelping is always the best scenario, but when trouble arises during whelping we are here to assist. A cesarean section can also be planned if it is in the best interest of the dam. There are multiple reasons why a c-section may be the best option for delivery. Unlike humans, the time frame for delivery of the fetuses is very narrow.

Before every c-section we determine the health state of the fetuses and are able to confidently determine that the fetuses are not premature. Our team is highly trained for c-sections and puppy resuscitation. We also allow owners to take part in our c-sections. You are welcome to watch the procedure and help with puppy resuscitation.

Neonatal care

The stress is not over for the breeder once the delivery is complete. We are here to help with any concerns about neonatal health you may have in the critical weeks following whelping. We also offer tail docking and dew claw removal.

As the puppies grow we offer vaccinations and health checks for the litter. Any litter that comes to us for vaccinations will receive a $25 certificate good towards their first exam with us once they are in their new homes.

High-risk pregnancy management

A pregnancy can be classified as a high-risk pregnancy for a multitude of reasons. Previous pregnancy loss, breed-specific complications, age of the dam, hormonal problems, singleton litters, vaginal discharge during pregnancy, and much more would be considered a high-risk pregnancy. We have the diagnostics and treatment options to minimize or eliminate the risks of pregnancy loss and ensure a health dam and litter.

Post-partum disease management

Eclampsia, mastitis, and even pyometra are all diseases that can commonly occur after whelping. We have treatment options for all of these and more to ensure the health of the dam in the post-partum period.

Medical management of pyometra

Pyometra is an infection that occurs due to hormonal changes in the uterus. Pyometra is most common in older bitches, but can occur in the young to middle aged as well. Pyometra is always a medical emergency and should not be taken lightly. Spaying is usually the best option for pyometra treatment. However, if the bitch is a valuable part of your breeding program medical treatment of pyometra may be an option. If there are any concerns that your pet may have a pyometra, please contact a veterinarian immediately.

Benign prostatic hyperplasia and prostatitis treatment

There are several drug therapies that can reduce the size of the prostate and treat prostatitis while simultaneously maintaining the stud dog’s fertility.

Accidental breeding management

We understand that accidents do occur, and we have options for when they do. If the suspected tie recently occurred, we can perform a cytology of the vagina in order to help confirm the suspicion. Ultrasound can also be performed 30 days after the suspected tie to confirm pregnancy. If pregnant the options include: allow the bitch to carry the litter to term, perform a spay or interrupt the pregnancy with medical treatment. Medical treatment takes place day 26 to 28 days after breeding.