Fat: more than just “storage”

Exploring the critical link between nutrition and fertility in pets, this insightful post reveals how body condition, particularly fat's role as an endocrine tissue, significantly impacts reproductive health. Highlighting the hormonal imbalances caused by obesity and the temperature sensitivity of gametes and embryos, it underscores the necessity of optimal body condition for breeding success.

[BLOG] Timing of ovulation in canines: 3 take-away messages from our previous webinar

Understanding the timing of ovulation in canines is crucial for successful dog breeding. Our recent webinar highlighted three key messages that every breeder should know. First, accurately identifying the ovulation period significantly increases the chances of conception. This process involves monitoring hormonal changes, specifically progesterone levels, to predict the optimal breeding time. Second, employing the right tools and techniques for ovulation detection can streamline the breeding process, ensuring breeders make informed decisions. Lastly, we emphasized the importance of veterinary involvement for health assessments and guidance throughout the breeding cycle. This knowledge is vital for optimizing breeding strategies and enhancing the reproductive success of your breeding program.

[BLOG] Canine distemper: 19 facts you should know when you work in a shelter

Canine distemper is a highly contagious viral disease that poses a serious threat to dogs, especially in shelter environments where it can spread rapidly. This comprehensive blog post presents 19 essential facts about canine distemper, aimed at those working in or associated with animal shelters. Learn about the symptoms, transmission, and prevention strategies to safeguard the well-being of dogs under your care. Understand the critical role of vaccination and the challenges of managing outbreaks in shelter conditions. With practical advice and expert insights, this guide is an indispensable resource for enhancing disease management and promoting a healthier, safer environment for dogs in shelters.

[BLOG] Back to the Future : Reviewing my Minutes from the 2012 ISCFR – Part I (2018)

In this insightful update from the 2012 ISCFR, key advancements and pivotal research findings in reproductive health for dogs and cats are highlighted. From the latest on artificial insemination techniques to breakthroughs in understanding hormonal impacts on fertility, this blog offers essential knowledge for veterinarians and breeders alike. Discover the significant strides made in breeding soundness examinations, the crucial role of hormones like progesterone, AMH, and LH in reproductive cycles, and the advancements in neonatal care that promise healthier future generations for both canines and felines.

[BLOG] 2014 SFT meeting: news worth sharing with shelters (Part II)

In the second installment on the 2014 SFT meeting, vital insights for shelters on canine and feline reproduction are shared, emphasizing the importance for those in animal care and shelter operations. This piece highlights key findings from the conference, including challenges and solutions related to genital disorders in spayed animals, the prevalence of ovarian remnants, and the use of diagnostic tools like LH and AMH tests.

[BLOG] 12 interesting facts about parvo in shelters

Parvovirus, commonly known as Parvo, poses a significant threat to dogs, especially in shelter environments. This highly contagious viral disease can lead to severe gastrointestinal issues and, if left untreated, can be fatal. Our latest blog highlights 12 essential facts about Parvo, including its transmission methods, symptoms, and the critical role of vaccination and sanitation in prevention. Understanding these aspects is vital for anyone involved in dog care, particularly in shelters, to protect these vulnerable animals from such a devastating disease.

[BLOG] What is canine angiostrongilosis? My notes here !

Discover the essentials of canine angiostrongilosis, a parasitic disease increasingly reported in Europe and raising awareness in North America. Known colloquially as the "French heartworm," Angiostrongylus vasorum resides in the heart and pulmonary artery, leading to symptoms that range from respiratory distress to severe neurological and coagulation disorders. Transmission occurs through the ingestion of infected molluscs, posing a risk for dogs across varied regions. Despite the variability in symptom severity, from asymptomatic cases to life-threatening conditions, early detection and a proactive approach to treatment—often extending up to four weeks—are crucial for managing this parasitic threat.

[BLOG] TCI vs Surgical AI ? Some elements here !

In this insightful post, Dr. Emmanuel Fontaine explores the nuances between Trans Cervical Insemination (TCI) and surgical artificial insemination in canine reproduction, emphasizing the benefits of TCI. Highlighting a seminar in Ontario in partnership with Minitube Canada, the article discusses the advantages of using vaginal endoscopy for intra-uterine insemination, a technique Dr. Fontaine extensively utilized in his previous role at a canine reproduction center in Paris. With expert insights and a comparison of TCI against surgical methods, this piece is essential reading for those interested in the latest advancements in canine reproductive technologies.

[BLOG] Small animal reproduction: my Top 10 predictions for the future !

Exploring the future of small animal reproduction, this insightful blog by Dr. Emmanuel Fontaine unveils the remarkable advancements and potential breakthroughs on the horizon. With a decade of experience, Dr. Fontaine shares his top 10 predictions that promise to reshape canine and feline breeding. From routine feline insemination and innovative semen processing techniques to embryo transfers and stem cell therapy for repairing damaged uteri, the future looks bright. The blog highlights the shift towards more sophisticated reproductive technologies, including in-vitro fertilization and synthetic colostrum for newborns, underscoring a transformative era in small animal reproduction that could bring the science fiction of today into tomorrow's reality.

[BLOG] Canine repro: why it is really a unique species

Exploring canine reproduction reveals its distinct nature compared to other mammals. Canines exhibit early luteinisation of ovarian follicles, where progesterone production begins before ovulation, aiding in pinpointing ovulation timing. Unlike most mammals that release mature oocytes during ovulation, canines ovulate premature oocytes requiring 55 to 72 hours of maturation before fertilization can occur. This understanding is pivotal in devising optimal breeding protocols, offering a glimpse into the unique aspects of canine breeding and the ongoing scientific journey to unravel the mysteries of their reproductive physiology.