Optimal Breeding Time Determination in Bitch Using Vaginal Cytology: Case Report

Two rotweilers and one local mongrel bitches were presented to a veterinary practice for optimal breeding time (OBT) determination at different time. This was done using vaginal cytology. The swab technique was used to collect the vaginal epithelial cells from the posterior vagina. The clinical examinations of the first two bitches were similar with a soft and bulging vulva; and faint red bloody discharge. The bitches also exhibited Amantea reaction (relaxed when hands were put on their back). The vaginal cytology revealed the presence of mostly superficial as seen in estrus and bitches were recommended for breeding (3times consecutively) from that day upward. Whereas, the third bitch being on late pro-estrus was crossed 5 days later when the cytology revealed estrous. At the end of 61-67 days gestations, the three bitches delivered 8, 10 and 5 puppies respectively. This result once again emphasized the accuracy of vaginal cytology as a useful tool to determine an optimal breeding time in bitch. Hence, vaginal cytology, though can not detect ovulation day, will continue to be patronized by small animal practitioners because it is simple, fast, cheap, can detect the stage of the estrous cycle and to some extent accurate in determining optimal breeding time in a bitch particularly when combine with good clinical examinations. Key words : Bitch, estrus, optimal breeding time, ovulation and vaginal cytology