A Breeding Soundness Examination is performed by a veterinarian familiar with reproduction and is recommended once a year for all potential breeding dogs. Exams should also be done on all new dogs that are being brought into a breeding program as potentially dangerous diseases and signs of infertility can be detected.
Below is a detailed breakdown of what to expect during a Breeding Soundness Examination. Please understand that every patient is different and not all items listed below may be applicable every time. Each Breeding Soundness Examination will be tailored to the patients specific needs.
The Breeding Soundness Examination will start with a thorough reproductive and medical history review.
- Breeding management (Past and Intended)
- Information on previous cycles (Female)
- Outcome of any breeding(s)
- Relevant family history
- Routine Medical Information (Including diet, medications, environment and health status.)
- Vaccination status
- Parasite Control
- Pre-breeding testing results (ie. OFA, genetic screening, etc.)
Next, after reviewing and discussing the patient history the veterinarian will then perform a detailed physical exam focused specifically around reproduction.
-For Female patients:Genitalia and mammary glands
- Digital vaginal examination and vaginoscopy
- Examination of all other organ systems
-For Male patients:
- Semen collection and evaluation
- Digital prostatic examination
- Palpation of scrotum, testes and epididymides
- Examination of all other organ systems
Based upon the examination, the veterinarian may then recommend appropriate testing based on their findings. There are many tests available but some of the more common tests are listed below.
- Screening for hereditary defects
- Blood Chemistry Testing
- Brucella Canis Testing
- Progesterone and LH Testing
- Culture / Cytology Testing
Finally, the veterinarian and technicians will make sure you have all your questions answered and provide you a plan along with any follow up instructions. As you can see there is a lot of work that goes into a Breeding Soundness Examination. Please give us a call today at (603) 335-2120 to schedule an appointment.
Please note: We work hard to minimize wait times. Therefore, we request Breeding Soundness Examinations be scheduled ahead of time when possible to avoid any urgent care fees.