Female Reproductive Services

Ovulation Timing
Early preparation and planning are essential for a successful breeding. Dr. Mike Freeman believes your female should have a full physical exam, including a full blood profile with thyroid test, about three months before breeding so she can be in the best shape possible.

A full blood profile is recommended to affirm that all internal organs are functioning properly. All certification, eyes, hips, etc., for your breed should also be done at this time. Within thirty days of breeding, a Brucellosis (blood) test is needed.

Breeders who wish to utilize Fresh Express or frozen semen should make arrangements for purchase of semen with the owner of the sire well in advance of their bitch's breeding time. Our clinic and local canine clubs can help owners locate sires for breeding. The stud's owner should be informed of all test results as the bitch nears her breeding time.

Start bringing your bitch to our clinic around day three of her estrus cycle for progesterone testing and vaginal slide. These procedures are important tools used in predicting ovulation time. It is common to use at least two of these tests in conjunction to increase accuracy. Absolute progesterone, LH and target tests are also used in place of or in addition to the status pro and vaginal slides.

Once the bitch has reached her fertile period she can be naturally bred or artificially inseminated, A/I. A/I can be performed vaginally or surgically. Transcervical insemination is used when using frozen semen. This endoscopic method of insemination occurs while the female is fully awake and has results equal to surgical insemination.  Progesterone levels are monitored during pregnancy. A sonogram is used to detect and monitor pregnancy at 24 days after breeding.

Transcervical Insemination
This endoscopic method of insemination occurs while the female is fully awake and has results equal to surgical insemination. 

Dr. Mike Freeman looks at a monitor while performing a transcervical insemination.

Cesarean Section
With ovulation timing, you should know within a 24 hour period when labor will begin .You should look for signs of labor such as : abdominal straining, nesting, and water breaking. If a puppy does not present within 15 minutes after the water breaks, you should call a veterinarian. Some cases require a cesarean section to remove the puppies.

Artificial Insemination
Artificial insemination is used for fresh chilled semen and collection on dogs who do not breed naturally.

Sonograms
Sonograms can be done as early as 21-24 days post breeding to determine if pregnancy has occurred. It can also be used to monitor pregnancy along with progesterone testing.

Dr. Freeman uses the sonogram for pregnancy confirmation.

Breeding Related Lab Testing
At approximately the 3rd day of heat, lab tests for determining ovulation are started. These include: progesterone, LH, vaginal smears, and vaginal scopes.

Infertility Problem Solving
We are willing to consult with you to problem solve your fertility issues. 

Genetic Counseling
Please call for an appointment to discuss genetic possibilities.

Phone Consultations
Dr. Freeman is willing to have phone consultations with veterinarians and breeders. Please be aware that charges may apply.

DNA Swabs for AKC Testing
Swabs are available through AKC.