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.
Tag: Fertility
Factors influencing fertility in pets and how to enhance reproductive success.
[BLOG] 2014 SFT meeting: news worth sharing with shelters (Part I)
At the 2014 Society for Theriogenology meeting in Portland, OR, specialists in animal reproduction convened to exchange insights on the latest breakthroughs. This post explores the relevance of these discussions to shelters, emphasizing contraception and population management in canine and feline reproduction. Highlights include a study on penile spines in feral cats and their reproductive adaptations, as well as innovative research on using nicotine as a non-surgical contraception method in dogs and cats
[BLOG] Kitten season: is there still such a thing?
As springtime approaches, many pet enthusiasts wonder if the concept of "kitten season" still holds true. Traditionally marked by a surge in feline births, this phenomenon impacts animal shelters and rescue organizations significantly, presenting both challenges and opportunities. This blog explores the dynamics of kitten season, emphasizing its implications for cat welfare and the strategies employed by shelters to manage the influx. We highlight the critical role of spaying and neutering in controlling population growth and the importance of supporting local shelters during these peak times.
[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] Feline upper respiratory diseases: 24 things you need to know concerning Feline Herpes Virus (aka FHV-1)
In the world of feline care, upper respiratory diseases pose significant health challenges, with Feline Herpes Virus (FHV-1) standing out as a prevalent cause. This comprehensive blog sheds light on 24 critical aspects of FHV-1, highlighting its nature as an alpha-herpesvirus specific to cats, with no risk to humans. It delves into the virus's modes of transmission, primarily through close contact via ocular, nasal, and oral secretions, and underscores the critical role of sanitation and hygiene in managing outbreaks. The post also addresses the virus's life-long impact on infected cats, including potential latency and stress-induced reactivation, which can lead to widespread shelter outbreaks.
[BLOG] How do you know if this animal is spayed or neutered? Easy ways to check !
Discover the straightforward methods to determine if an animal is spayed or neutered with our insightful guide. In a world where responsible pet ownership and population control are paramount, understanding whether your pet has been surgically altered is crucial. This article provides pet owners with practical advice on identifying spay or neuter status, aimed at ensuring the health and well-being of dogs and cats alike. We cover the significance of spaying/neutering in preventing unwanted litters and delve into easy techniques for verification.
[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.
[BLOG] A lot of hygiene and a glimpse of contraception: this was our shelter convention !
Key shelter personnel exchanged ideas, aiming for optimal care for animals in their charge. Highlighting the importance of proper sanitation, the introduction of Accelerated Hydrogen Peroxide as a potential game-changer in shelter disinfection was discussed. On contraception, while surgical options dominate, promising research into alternatives like GnRH vaccines and gene silencing offers hope for more efficient future solutions, potentially saving time and reducing stress for shelter animals.
[BLOG] Feline reproduction: fibroadenomato….what?!?!
In veterinary circles, fibroadenomatosis in felines is a condition less commonly encountered but crucial for cat breeders to understand. This blog unveils the complexities behind this sex hormone-related disease, primarily influenced by progesterone. With cats being mating-induced ovulators, the risk of fibroadenomatosis escalates, potentially complicating pregnancies. Beyond natural causes, the use of progestins, potent progesterone analogues, as contraceptive measures amplifies this risk. Despite its daunting prospects, effective medical interventions have evolved, offering hope and solutions.
DR. EMMANUEL FONTAINE 