ANSWERS

1. During which months are queens (except those kept exclusively indoors) not receptive to toms (in the UK)?
   December & January.
2. Queens are described as "seasonally polyoestrus"; what does this mean?
   Having multiple oestrus cycles during the breeding season (ie. February to November).
3. Bitches are monoestrus; what does this mean?
   Having only one oestrus cycle in each breeding season.
4. The bitch is a spontaneous ovulator; what does this mean?
   Ovulation occurs whether the bitch is mated or not.
5. The queen is an induced ovulator; what does this mean?
   Ovulation occurs only if the queen is mated (or if she is artificially stimulated).
6. How long is proestrus in the bitch?
   9-10 days.
7. How long is oestrus in the bitch?
   7-10 days.
8. In what way is the vulval discharge produced in proestrus different to that seen in oestrus?
   A blood stained mucous discharge is seen in proestrus, while a clear amber discharge is seen in oestrus.
9. What hormones are involved in proestrus, and what are their functions?
   • Follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) is released from the anterior pituitary - stimulates maturation of the ovarian follicles in the ovary.
   • Oestradiol is produced by the cells of the wall of the developing ovarian follicles - prepares the external genitalia and genital tract for coitus and reception of the fertilised eggs.
10. If a bitch is not mated, or a mating is infertile; why is pseudocyesis (false pregnancy) common?
    The corpora lutea form and produce progesterone necessary for the maintenance of pregnancy. The corpora lutea are established regardless of whether a bitch has been mated.
11. What is meant by "anoestrus"?
    A period of rest until the next season.
12. What is meant by "interoestrus"?
    This is the stage of non-receptivity in the queen in the absence of mating, or if mating has not resulted in ovulation. This lasts 3-14 days, after which time the queen will return to proestrus.
13. What is the term that describes the absence of cyclical activity during lactation?
    Lactational anoestrus.
14. A client telephones the surgery requesting advice regarding his Labrador bitch. She is 6 months old, and the client would like to breed from her in the future, but not during her first season. List all the useful information you would offer.
    • The bitch may come into season at anytime from now, at 6 months it is unlikely but possible. The first season may be delayed however and not occur until the bitch is 18 months old. Advise that the whole season comprises several stages and will last approximately 3 weeks.
    • Advise the client of the signs of a season, primarily a blood stained mucous discharge during proestrus, and clear amber fluid during oestrus. Also vocalising, and interest in males.
    • Warn the client of the symptoms of pyometra, namely a prolonged enlargement of the vulva, prolonged vaginal discharge, anorexia, polydipsia and depression.
    • Suggest that the bitch be exercised on the leash away from areas where other dogs are out and about. The client may have control of the bitch, but an entire male will be very difficult to evict!
    • If the bitch is left to exercise in the garden, ensure that it is escape proof!
    • Advise that seasons can be messy and that is sensible to invest in easily washable bedding such as Vetbed. Products such as Mikki disposable knickers for bitches are available!
    • Warn the client of the symptoms of false pregnancy; predominantly nesting, a very close attachment to a toy and enlarged nipples.
    • Reassure the client that in the event of an unwanted mating, help is at hand! The bitch has the equivalent of the morning after pill in the form of a series of injections such as Mesalin. This should be given as soon as possible after the event.
    • Long term advice should include the recommendation that the bitch is hip scored at 12 months of age on the BVA/Kennel Club Scheme. In addition, if the client has not bred from a bitch before, they ought to purchase a good book on the subject beforehand and consult the Kennel Club in order to find a suitable sire.
    • Recommend that they telephone the surgery at once in the event of any further queries.