The Olney-Sandy Spring Veterinary Hospital
(OSSVH) has developed a progressive
reproductive management program
called “The Breeder’s Edge.”
Breeding stock selection, by
reputable breeders, is based
on such factors as conformation,
temperament, and lack
of hereditary defects. The
American Kennel Club allows
registration of litters bred by
artificial insemination using
fresh, fresh-chilled, or frozen
semen. This allows the breeding of dogs that
are geographically separated, but without the
cost and risk involved in shipping them. It also
provides more information on the quality of
the semen and/or the state of the uterus, and
can be physically safer.
Breeders and veterinarians can now focus
more on predicting accurate timing for breeding.
Starting with pre-breeding exams, the
veterinarian ensures the female dog’s overall
health. Ovulation timing, which is based on
vaginal cytology and serum progesterone
levels, aids in predicting the best time for
conception. Various artificial insemination
methods are available, including
vaginal, transcervical, and
surgical. Ultrasound is used to
verify pregnancy and to help
diagnose reproductive problems.
Caesarean sections are
planned for females at high risk
for birthing complications.
Male reproductive services
include breeding exams
and collection and evaluation of semen. The
semen can then be used for insemination in
the hospital, or chilled and shipped to another
veterinarian. OSSVH is affiliated with
C.L.O.N.E. and collects, freezes, stores, and
ships frozen semen for future use.
