Pet Corner

Preventing pregnancy

We are at the end of the series of TPC articles dealing with ailments associated with reproduction, and with the male and female reproductive organs. 

Female infertility revisited

Pyometra Today, I would like to return to an aspect ‘female infertility’ which we have already previously touched upon, but which needs to be revisited and dealt with in more detail. 

Orchitis

Continued Last week, we began with an ailment which impacts upon fertility/reproduction, and which is associated with an inflammation of the testicles (orchitis).

Infertility in the male dog

Continued Inflammation of the testicles (Orchitis) We are still discussing infertility in the male, and within this context physical injuries and infections (from bacteria, fungi and viruses) of the testicles are very common causes of the inability of males to breed.

Infertility in the female dog

Continued Vaginal infection (Vaginitis) Bacterial infection of the vagina often spreads to the urinary tract causing a burning sensation on urination and increased frequency in the voiding of urine. 

Infertility in the female dog

Continued Up until now the discussion has centered on infertility of the bitch based on hormonal, metabolic, management related, genetic or anatomic (congenital or acquired) disorders/ deficiencies. 

Infertility in dogs

If, after the successful completion of the physical sex act (called the ‘tie‘ in dogs), the bitch fails to conceive, you may be faced with an infertility problem – in either the male or the female, or both. 

Please implement disease preventative measures (vaccinations, routine dewormings, monthly anti-heartworm medication, etc) and adopt-a-pet from the GSPCA’s Animal Clinic and Shelter at Robb Street and Orange Walk, if you have the wherewithal to care well for the animals.  Do not stray your unwanted pets, take them to the GSPCA’s Clinic and Shelter instead. If you do not wish your pet to have puppies or kittens, you may exploit the GSPCA’s free spay and neutering programme. If you see anyone being cruel to an animal, or if you need any technical information, please get in touch with the Clinic and Shelter by calling 226-4237.

Breeding problems

Continued Unwilling breeders Last week we commenced with this topic and explained that, in most cases, dogs who are deemed to be ‘shy breeders’ might have in fact been brought together for mating at an incorrect time during the mating season.

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