PHYSIOLOGY OF THE ESTROUS CYCLE IN THE BITCH: WHAT IS RELEVANT TO PERFORMING ACCURATE OVULATION TIMING

摘要

The practice of ovulation timing has become increasingly useful to veterinarians who recognize its value in improving reproductive services. Accurate ovulation timing improves conception and facilitates breeding management. Popular stud dogs' owners commonly permit a limited number of breedings (usually two) and may need to prioritize bitches based on ovulation timing. Owners of bitches need to make travel arrangements in advance and usually wish to minimize time spent at the stud dog facility. Boarding of bitches in season can be abbreviated by recognition of the end of their fertile period. The use of extended, chilled or frozen semen and the management of breedings using subfertile stud dogs require ovulation timing to optimize conception. Improved litter size occurs with properly timed breedings. Proper ovulation timing permits accurate evaluation of gestational length, important when managing parturition, and is essential in the evaluation of apparent bitch infertility.