Breeding Soundness Evaluations
- Done every 12 months for all dogs actively being used for breeding.
- Comprehensive evaluation of health that ensures there are no health concerns prior to breeding.
Forms
Pre-Breeding Screening & Testing
Brucellosis Test
- We are proud to be a Brucellosis-free hospital
- We require a Brucellosis-negative certificate within the last 6 months for all breeding dogs
- Same-day results along with a certificate of the negative test status
Breeding Timing with Progesterone Levels
- Timing is critical in breeding to maximize the chances of a successful pregnancy
- We use progesterone testing for ovulation timing to determine the optimal time for insemination
- We have in-house progesterone testing and the results will be given same day
Baseline Blood Work
- We recommend baseline chemistry/ blood counts +/- thyroid levels prior to breeding
- If there is underlying disease, pregnancy may make these conditions worse
- Ensuring you are breeding a healthy dog is critical to the well being of parents and pups
- Additional services and tests are available – please ask if there is a service you would like
PennHIP® Radiographs
- Dr. Estle is one of a few vets in our area certified to perform this evaluation
- An effective hip screening tool and is accurate in puppies as young as 16 weeks of age
- Gives an evaluation of hip laxity (looseness) which estimates the risk for developing osteoarthritis or hip dysplasia
- While under a reversible, light sedation, three different radiograph views are taken
OFA
OFA studies are pre-breeding tests that allow us to determine if a dog should be bred.
Some key OFA tests are:
- OFA Hips: One radiograph of the pelvis and stifles. We recommend sedation, but it is not required
- OFA Elbows and/or Shoulders: One radiograph of each elbow or shoulder and is usually combined with an OFA hip or PennHIP® procedure
- OFA Thyroid: Blood is drawn at our hospital and submitted for testing
- OFA Patella: Manual palpation and manipulation of the stifles is done by our reproductive veterinarian
- Non-specialist OFA Style Cardiac Exam: Cardiac auscultation is done by our reproductive veterinarian
Veterinarian’s Oath
Being admitted to the profession of veterinary medicine, I solemnly swear to use my scientific knowledge and skills for the benefit of society through the protection of animal health and welfare, the prevention and relief of animal suffering, the conservation of animal resources, the promotion of public health, and the advancement of medical knowledge.
I will practice my profession conscientiously, with dignity, and in keeping with the principles of veterinary medical ethics.
I accept as a lifelong obligation the continual improvement of my professional knowledge and competence.
