Number Of Puppies Research Articles

Upah Jasa Plasma Breading Ikan Cupang Perspektif Hukum Ekonomi Syariah

The Cupang fish plasma breading business seems popular in society. The price of Cupang fish plasma breading services is quite profitable because it depends on the success of the pupping process based on the number of puppies and the age of the puppies when taken back by the owner. The purpose of this study is to analyze the transaction system and wages of Cupang fish plasma breading system from the perspective of fiqh muamalah. The type of this research is literature study. The approach used in this study was a normative juridical. Data analysis in this research was carried out in three stages, namely data reduction, data presentation, and data verification. The results of this study reveal that the terms used in the transaction are not a reference to legalize or prohibit plasma breading transactions. The transaction system carried out by Cupang fish plasma breading service providers is permissible in the perspective of fiqh muamalah because there are no elements of gambling, riba, fraud and not najis goods. The results of this study also found that the transaction pattern of Cupang fish plasma breading services uses ju'alah contract.

Monitoring of canine pregnancy by considering Anti-Mullerian hormone, C-reactive protein, progesterone and complete blood count in pregnant and non-pregnant dogs

In this study, we measured the serum concentration of anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH), C-reactive protein (CRP), progesterone (P4), and the complete blood count (CBC) in pregnant and non-pregnant bitches. The aim was to investigate the suitability of these parameters for monitoring canine pregnancy. Blood samples were collected from all bitches introduced for timed mating on the day of first mating (>5 ng/ml). The first blood sample after mating was obtained on day 12 post-copulation. The dogs whose pregnancy was confirmed on days 25 and 35, were allotted to the pregnancy positive group (G+) and those that were not pregnant were grouped as pregnancy negative (G). Ultrasonography (US) was performed on days 25, 35, 45 and 55 in pregnant (N = 13) and non-pregnant (N = 7) animals; The sonographic examinations in non-pregnant bitches were continued up to day 63, and in pregnant bitches they were also carried out one day after parturition (D+1). Blood samples were taken in parallel with these periods. Furthermore, the pregnant bitches were classified as G1A (1–2 puppies), G1B (3–4 puppies), and G1C (5–11 puppies) based on the number of puppies, and G1X (10 kg), G1Y (10–20 kg), and G1Z (>20 kg) based on their body weight.No significant difference was found between G+ and G-with regard to AMH, except on day 45, when AMH was higher in G+ (P < 0.01). On the other hand, the CRP values in the G+ exceeded those in the G-group on day 25 (38.26 vs. 15.66 mg/L, P < 0.05), on day 35 (32.54 vs. 15.97 mg/L, P < 0.05) and on day one after parturition (36.24 vs. 10.10 mg/L, P < 0.01).When puppy number was considered, it was discovered that CRP values significantly increased with puppy number on days 12 and 45 (G1A vs. G1B day 12: 4.13 vs 15.84 mg/L, P < 0.05; day 45: 12.40 vs. 25.76 mg/L, P < 0.001), and on day 35 (G1B vs. G1C: 24.18 vs. 38.87 mg/L, P < 0.01). With regards to AMH, this was only detectable on day 12 (G1A vs. G1B: 0.56 vs. 1.13 ng/mL, P < 0.05).When the body weight of the pregnant bitches was considered, bitches <10 kg had significantly higher AMH values than bitches bitch >20 kg on days 12 and 25 (day 12: 1.20 vs. 0.21 ng/mL, P < 0.01; day 25: 0.91 vs. 0.21 ng/mL, P < 0.05). This was not found in the case of CRP.The white blood cells (WBC) and the granulocytes (GRAN) were found to be higher in the G+ group (P < 0.01) on day 55, while the hematocrit (HCT) was significantly lower on day 45 (P < 0.05) and day 55 (P < 0.01). The increased GRAN was still detectable one day after parturition (P < 0.05).In conclusion, measurement of the AMH and CRP concentrations may contribute to determination of gestation stage and monitoring of the course of pregnancy; values are related to maternal body weight and number of puppies; however, AMH did not change over the course of a normal pregnancy. Sonography, the increase in CRP and complete blood count values may be beneficial for monitoring canine pregnancy. More studies are necessary to prove these findings.

Parameters in Canines After Cesarean Sections.

This study evaluated fertility in canines after cesarean section and compared it with natural parturition. Parameters, such as the time of the next heat after the first parturition or cesarean section, the heat which was used for another breeding attempt, whether it was successful, the number of puppies that were born, and the necessity of another cesarean section were examined. The study relied on questioning patient owners at a University clinic. A Google online form was also used. Information for 261 dogs from different breed groups was included, of which 119 bitches were in the cesarean section group, and 142 were in the natural parturition group. In total, 93 ± 2.7% [LSMeans ± standard error (SE)] and 91.12 ± 3% (LSMeans ± SE) of the bitches became pregnant after cesarean section and natural parturition at the first breeding attempt. There was no significant effect on the breed group or whether the bitch had undergone a cesarean section before (p = 0.8 and p = 0.63). Bitches, which underwent a cesarean section, were more likely to have further cesarean sections performed (p < 0.001). However, neither the breed groups (p = 0.17), whether the bitch had undergone a cesarean section (p = 0.59), nor the number of previous parities had any effect on the number of puppies born (p = 0.95). The breed group bulldogs had a high proportion of cesarean sections. Only 42.11% of the bulldogs had a natural parturition as the first included parturition and only 31% gave birth naturally thereafter.

The effect of mating method and mating season on the number of puppies and determination of some reproductive parameters in Pomeranian dogs

In the present study, the 3-year breeding behavior of the parent dogs in a Pomeranian farm was followed, and the effects of season and insemination method on their reproductive performance were investigated. The gestation period was 62.4 days, the age at which sexual maturity is reached was 404.4 days and the average period between two estruses was found as 205.2 days. The mean number of offspring, and the mean number of male and female puppies were found as 3.4, 2.15 and 1.4 respectively. The stillbirth rate was found as 1.4% and the survival rate to 1 year was 83.3%. The pregnancy rate, the average number of female puppies, the number of stillbirths and the total number of offspring were found to be similar in naturally and artificially inseminated females (P&amp;gt;0.05). While 47.6% of estruses were seen in the spring-summer months, 52.4% were seen in the autumn-winter months (P&amp;gt;0.05). The mating season did not affect the number of female offspring, the stillbirth rate or the total number of offspring (P&amp;gt;0.05). However, when compared to the spring-summer months, the mortality rate of females up to 1 year of age showing estrus in the autumn-winter season was found to be significantly higher (P&amp;lt;0.01).

Влияние возраста самок немецкой овчарки на репродуктивные показатели

The article presents the results of a study of reproductive indicators in female German Shepherd dogs in terms of age changes: litter size (multiple pregnancies), duration of pregnancy, live weight of puppies. For a sample of 158 breeding dogs, the mean multiple pregnancy for the entire sample was 5.8 ± 0.018 puppies per 123 fruitful matings. The authors found out that the litter size varied depending on the age of the females. During the study period, the least number of litters consisted of one and ten puppies, respectively, three and one; also 6 litters consisted of two puppies, 9 consisted of 3 puppies, 15 litters each numbering 4, 7 and 8 puppies, 23 litters of 5 puppies, 25 litters of 6 puppies, 7 litters of 9 puppies, 4 litters of 11 puppies. The maximum litter size of 11 puppies was recorded in dogs aged 3, 4 and 6 years, the minimum litter size consisting of one puppy was recorded in dogs aged 5 and 6 years. There was a trend towards a decrease in the period of pregnancy with an increase in the age of the dog, which was significant in comparison between the age groups of 2 and 7 years. Also, a high safety of offspring was noted in all the studied age periods, which was in the range from 92.75 to 100%, separately for litters with the number of puppies 2-6, the safety was 100%, for multiple litters with the number of puppies 7-11 heads, this indicator was 98.05% . Statistically significant differences were registered in terms of multiple pregnancy at the age of 2 and 3 years and at the age of 7 and 8 years, at (P &lt; 0.05).

Effects of Two Commercial Diets on Several Reproductive Parameters in Bitches: Note Two-Lactation and Puppies' Performance.

Simple SummaryPregnancy dramatically changes the metabolic status of bitches. As a consequence, malnutrition negatively affects both reproductive parameters and survival rates of puppies. Therefore, before mating and conception, as well as during pregnancy and lactation, it is necessary to satisfy the bitches’ specific nutritional requirements. The present study aimed to compare the effects of two diets, Control (CTR) and Experimental (EX), which differ mainly as regards ingredients, energy, and protein contents, and which were administered to bitches of medium and large size from two months before the expected onset of proestrus up to 30 days after delivery. Bitches’ weight, body condition score, litter size, milk yield and quality, and puppies’ growth were evaluated. Considering the performance of the bitches and the puppies, it would seem that both the diets are adequate for bitches at these stages of their life cycle. In fact, after 30 days of lactation, all tested bitches showed a healthy status. Moreover, both the percentage of newborns mortality and puppies’ growth kinetics fell within the normal physiological range for the species.The study aimed to compare two diets, Control (CTR) and Experimental (EX) (mainly differing as regards their ingredients, energy, and protein contents) administered to medium and large-sized bitches from two months before the expected proestrus and up to 30 days after delivery on mothers’ weight, body condition score, litter size, milk quality, and puppies’ growth. No differences were found for body weight during pregnancy, even if the BCS after delivery was significantly (p < 0.01) higher in the EX group than in the CTR one. Concerning the size effect, the percentage of weight gain on the initial body weight was double in medium-sized dogs compared to large dogs (p < 0.01). The number of puppies per litter was significantly higher (p < 0.05) for the EX group compared to the CTR one. Concerning puppies’ weight, the CTR group showed a significantly (p < 0.01) higher body weight from the 21st day of life due to the significant (p < 0.01) higher daily weight gain during the suckling period. Considering the performance of bitches and puppies, both diets seem useful for these stages of their lives. In fact, after 30 days of lactation, all tested bitches showed a healthy status and both the percentage of newborns mortality and puppies’ growth kinetics fell into the normal physiological range for the species.

Reported Motivations and Aims of Australian Dog Breeders-A Pilot Study.

Simple SummaryIn Australia, it is estimated that approximately 400,000 puppies are born each year. These are bred both by breeders affiliated with breeding associations and by others with no such affiliation. There is no way to measure accurately the number of people breeding dogs because there is no national requirement to register breeding activities and dogs are relatively easy to breed and sell without the keeping of records. The only accurate publicly available figures are the number of ANKC registered breeders of pure-breed dogs and the number of puppies that these breeders produce and register. In 2019, these breeders bred fewer than 67,000 puppies. Little is known about what motivates breeders and what breeding practices they adopt. Less still is known about whether breeders prioritize practices that ensure that puppies are suitable as companion animals. This article explores the reported breeding motivations, objectives, and breeding and selling practices of 275 breeders who undertook an online survey. It reveals that most respondents view their breeding as a hobby, and they breed because of a love for a certain breed of dog. They report that they seek to breed healthy companion animals and are committed to the long-term health of the puppies they are producing. When they decided to start breeding, most respondents recall that they were not motivated by money, but they currently report that the aim to make money on each litter is very important.It is estimated that around 40% of Australian households currently own dogs that have been acquired from a variety of sources, including purpose-bred litters. However, little is known about how litters are being planned, whelped, and raised and less still on what motivates breeders to adopt their current practices. The current study used on online survey to explore the motivations and aims of Australian dog breeders; the breeding and selling practices Australian dog breeders favor and the extent to which breeders classify their breeding in terms of business, or hobby. Responses from breeders (n = 275) revealed that whilst most did not commence breeding to make financial gain, 86% of participants who answered the question confirmed that the making of money when they breed was a very important aim. Most breeders did not view their breeding as a commercial activity, despite nearly 20% of them confirming that they had declared income from the breeding and selling of puppies to the Australian Taxation Office.

Estradiol benzoate priming during induction of estrus with Vitex-castus extract in dogs

This study compared two methods of estrus induction between dogs (using vitagnus and vitagnus-estradiol). A total of 10 adult cyclic female Shih tzu Terrier mix breed dogs at anestrus stage were selected and divided into two groups. The first group (VAC) received vitagnus for five weeks (90 mg daily, PO). The second group (VAC-E2) was treated with vitagnus and estradiol benzoate. Estradiol benzoate was injected at the beginning of each week (0.01 mg/kg, IM). Blood sampling for evaluation of steroid hormones and vaginal smears were taken weekly. The sings and return to the estrus with the number of puppies were recorded. In the VAC group, 60%, and in the VAC-E2 group, 80% of dogs returned to the follicular phase after five weeks. In the VAC-E2 group, signs of estrus appeared 7 to 10 days and a mating process started 4 to 6 days earlier than those in the VAC group. The average number of delivered puppies was 4. These symptoms were confirmed by the cytology of the vagina. There was no significant difference in the estradiol and progesterone levels between groups. The mean concentration of estradiol significantly changed between weeks 1 and 4, 1 and 5, and 2 and 5 (p < 0.05). The progesterone level in the VAC-E2 group on week five was higher than that in other weeks. In conclusion, the administration of estradiol benzoate before vitagnus improved induction of estrus in dogs.

Friendship or Competition? Symmetry in Social Play within the Two Packs of German Shepherd Puppies.

Simple SummarySocial interactions within canine groups have been studied for decades. In relation to egalitarianism in social play (the “rule of 50:50”), most discussed attributes were body size or age of the play participants. We observed the social play of 14 German Shepherd puppies (two litters) at the age of 7 weeks, and once again at the age of 9 weeks (in total we observed 43 play pairs, also known as dyads). These litters were observed separately (litter 1: n = 28, litter 2: n = 15), and we evaluated 2542 interactions of social play in total. This total number included all interactions observed between the 43 dyads—1287 interactions at the age of 7 weeks old and 1255 interactions at 9 weeks old were recorded. The aim of our study was to evaluate symmetry within play interactions of puppies. Symmetry within the play has been confirmed for litter 1 at the age of 7 and 9 weeks and for litter 2 at the age of 7 weeks, but the final interpretation of our results is limited due to the small sample size and it is impossible to generalize our results for domestic dogs or a specific breed. For further studies, we would suggest an evaluation of breed differences (and including more individuals of each breed), ecological backgrounds and environmental factors regarding the development of egalitarian (or some other) play style.The symmetry of social play in Canids has been previously studied, especially in wolves, free-ranging dogs, and within mixed-aged groups, however our study focused on symmetry and asymmetry within play interactions in two litters (14 puppies) of German Shepherd dogs (GSDs). At the age of 7 weeks, we evaluated 1287 dyadic interactions (litter 1: n = 339 interactions, litter 2: n = 948 interactions), and at the age of 9 weeks we evaluated 1255 dyadic interactions (litter 1: n = 433 interactions, litter 2: n = 822 interactions). Dyadic interactions were observed and the winning indexes were calculated for 43 pairs (dyads). The groups of puppies studied were all the same age, therefore we focused on the aspects of sex and body size as primary variables. The weight and chest circumference of all puppies were measured. The distribution of interactions showed a slight inclination to mixed-sex dyads, but we did not obtain any statistically significant results concerning the impact of body size on play interactions. Symmetry in play was observed within litter 1 at the age of 7 weeks and at the age of 9 weeks, and within litter 2 at the age of 7 weeks. Since the number of puppies in this study was too small, these results should be interpreted regarding this limitation, and cannot be generalized to a larger population of domestic dogs nor the GSD breed. In further studies, it would be interesting to compare larger samples of different breeds, under different breeding conditions, and the effect of the environment on the style of social play.

The effectiveness of belmin in feeding of female arctic foxes (Vulpes lagopus L.) to increase reproductive functions

The article presents the results of tests of protein-organic additives on pregnant female Arctic foxes. The criteria for assessing the impact on the productivity of females of arctic fox and the number of missing, poor and disadvantaged females gave birth, fertility, the number of mothers who are good reproduction, number of stillborn puppies, preservation of offspring before registration and the number of puppies in terms of the main female. During the experiments, it was found that the inclusion in the number of pregnant females should be 1,5 grams per day, which leads to a decrease in the number of stillborn puppies and, with, as a consequence, an increase in the number of young animals to be deposited.

Новое селекционное достижение в звероводстве – порода соболя «Салтыковская серебристая»

The study presents the results of many years of breeding work on the creation of a new breed of sable – «Saltykovskaya silver». The breed is consolidated in color and hair quality. To date, the level of selection on the basis of gray hair is assessed as stabilizing. The live weight of females of the main herd is 1,2 kg, males 1,9–2,3 kg. The average values of fertility and yield of puppies in females of the breed «Saltykovskaya Silver» are at the level of the highest values for the species. The stability of reproduction indicators is shown both according to the data of safely whelping females and indicators of the average number of puppies per main female over a number of years. The new breed will improve the competitiveness of domestic fur in international markets.

Thimet Oligopeptidase (EC 3.4.24.15) Key Functions Suggested by Knockout Mice Phenotype Characterization.

Thimet oligopeptidase (THOP1) is thought to be involved in neuropeptide metabolism, antigen presentation, neurodegeneration, and cancer. Herein, the generation of THOP1 C57BL/6 knockout mice (THOP1−/−) is described showing that they are viable, have estrus cycle, fertility, and a number of puppies per litter similar to C57BL/6 wild type mice (WT). In specific brain regions, THOP1-/- exhibit altered mRNA expression of proteasome beta5, serotonin 5HT2a receptor and dopamine D2 receptor, but not of neurolysin (NLN). Peptidomic analysis identifies differences in intracellular peptide ratios between THOP1-/- and WT mice, which may affect normal cellular functioning. In an experimental model of multiple sclerosis THOP1-/- mice present worse clinical behavior scores compared to WT mice, corroborating its possible involvement in neurodegenerative diseases. THOP1-/- mice also exhibit better survival and improved behavior in a sepsis model, but also a greater peripheral pain sensitivity measured in the hot plate test after bradykinin administration in the paw. THOP1-/- mice show depressive-like behavior, as well as attention and memory retention deficits. Altogether, these results reveal a role of THOP1 on specific behaviors, immune-stimulated neurodegeneration, and infection-induced inflammation.

Oxidative stress effects in the uterus, placenta and fetus of pregnant rats submitted to acute and chronic stress.

To evaluate the effects of oxidative stress in pregnant rats submitted to acute and chronic stress, relating to alterations in the uterus, placenta and fetus. Twenty-four female Wistar albino (Rattus norvegicus), were divided into four groups, for induction of oxidative stress the animals were submitted to cold and physical immobilization. Plasma fasting glucose and MDA were determined in all groups and the fetuses and placentas were measured. There were no statistical differences in the levels of malonic dialdehyde (MDA), however the averages of chronic stress group were higher compared to control groups, which could explain the observed adverse effects; there was no correlation between puppies' size, the weight of the placenta and MDA values. Chronic stress causes adverse effects, when compared to control groups; chronic stress group had fetuses, placentas and number of puppies, significantly lower compared to other groups. The rats exposed to chronic stress, also presented a higher frequency of fetal resorption.

Selection of Breeding Stock among Australian Purebred Dog Breeders, with Particular Emphasis on the Dam.

Simple SummaryOne of the most important factors influencing the health and welfare of puppies is the decision made by the breeder on which dam and sire they will breed from. Unfortunately, our understanding of what dog breeders consider important when selecting their dogs, particularly the dam, is limited. In order to bridge this gap, we conducted an online survey of Australian purebred dog breeders. We identified four major factors that the breeder considered important in relation to the dam: Maternal Care; Offspring Potential; Dam Temperament; and Dam Genetics and Health. Overall, the priorities and practices of dog breeders surveyed were variable across breeds. Importantly, it seemed that not all breeders understood the importance of maternal care behaviour, despite the significant role it may play on future puppy behaviour.Every year, thousands of purebred domestic dogs are bred by registered dog breeders. Yet, little is known about the rearing environment of these dogs, or the attitudes and priorities surrounding breeding practices of these dog breeders. The objective of this study was to explore some of the factors that dog breeders consider important for stock selection, with a particular emphasis on issues relating to the dam. Two-hundred and seventy-four Australian purebred dog breeders, covering 91 breeds across all Australian National Kennel Club breed groups, completed an online survey relating to breeding practices. Most breeders surveyed (76%) reported specialising in one breed of dog, the median number of dogs and bitches per breeder was two and three respectively, and most breeders bred two litters or less a year. We identified four components, relating to the dam, that were considered important to breeders. These were defined as Maternal Care, Offspring Potential, Dam Temperament, and Dam Genetics and Health. Overall, differences were observed in attitudes and beliefs across these components, showing that there is variation according to breed/breed groups. In particular, the importance of Maternal Care varied according to dog breed group. Breeders of brachycephalic breeds tended to differ the most in relation to Offspring Potential and Dam Genetics and Health. The number of breeding dogs/bitches influenced breeding priority, especially in relation to Dam Temperament, however no effect was found relating to the number of puppies bred each year. Only 24% of breeders used their own sire for breeding. The finding that some breeders did not test for diseases relevant to their breed, such as hip dysplasia in Labrador Retrievers and German Shepherds, provides important information on the need to educate some breeders, and also buyers of purebred puppies, that screening for significant diseases should occur. Further research into the selection of breeding dams and sires will inform future strategies to improve the health and behaviour of our best friend.

Intensity of pelage pigmentation and reproductive ability in sables (Martez zibellina L.)

The consequences of directional selection for fur blackening in the sable commercial population were studied. The analysis of four crossing types, where females and males differed in their fur color was performed, according to the number of female reproductive indices, namely, female fertility, the number of puppies for a single mated female species, the number of puppies for a single whelped female species, and the portion of mated but not fertilized females. The lowest reproductive indices were recorded when species with the most blackened fur were crossed. Two-factor dispersion analysis of reproductive indices was performed, which revealed that the crossing type (factor 1) and the year of selection period (generation) (factor 2) both affect all the indices. The interaction of these two factors had a statistically significant effect only on the number of puppies for a single mated female species index. On the whole, the positive dynamics of the investigated indices was observed over a ten-year period, which allows us to presume the potential opportunity to continue the directional selection for intensification of sable hair pigmentation. The main stages in the selection process of Pushkinskii’s sable population were determined, and further directions of selection work were outlined.

Prevalence of Swimming Puppy Syndrome in 2,443 Puppies during the Years 2006–2012 in Thailand

The purpose of this study was to report on the prevalence of swimming puppy syndrome (SPS) and investigate predisposing factors. Data were recorded from 2,443 puppies (1,183 males and 1,260 females) in Thailand, October 2006–September 2012, including breed, sex, number of puppies per litter, type of nest floor, number of affected limbs, and occurrence of pectus excavatum. Fifty-two puppies (2.13%) were diagnosed with SPS. The breed most frequently affected was English Bulldog (8.33%). There was no significant difference (P > 0.05) between presence and absence of disease based on sex, breed, and nest floor type. The number of puppies per litter was associated with SPS; puppies from smaller litters (1.92 ± 1.12) had a higher prevalence of the disease (P < 0.01) than puppies from larger litters (3.64 ± 2.24). Moreover, 15.38% of puppies with affected limbs showed signs of pectus excavatum (8/52); this clinical sign was more prevalent (P < 0.01) in puppies with all four limbs affected with SPS.

Estimated Pregnancy Length from Ovulation to Parturition in the Bitch and its Influencing Factors: A Retrospective Study in 162 Pregnancies

An accurate timing of parturition is very useful for managing canine parturition. It is generally accepted that parturition in bitches occurs between 64 and 66 days after the luteinizing hormone peak. In this retrospective study, we determined pregnancy length in different breeds and its influencing factors dating it from the estimated day of ovulation (EDO), defined as the day when peripheral plasma level of progesterone (P4) reaches 6 ng/ml. From January 2001 to December 2006, 162 pregnancies in 151 bitches of 53 different breeds were followed. Different parameters concerning the bitch, the litter, the type of semen and the type of reproduction were studied. The mean estimated pregnancy length in the bitch from EDO to parturition was 63.1±2.1 days. The main influencing factors for the pregnancies studied were the breed, the size of the bitch and the number of puppies within the litter.

Nutrition: Commercial diet induced hypothyroidism due to high iodine. A histological and radiological analysis

Summary A number of puppies of the School Hospital of the Faculty of Veterinary Science‐UBA showed bone changes. Measurement of the iodine content of the commercial diet showed a significant increase in its content. Iodine excess causes alterations in thyroid function and morphology, and its hormones have a direct action on bone formation. Three groups of puppies were fed on different diets: a home‐prepared diet, a commercial diet (containing 5.6 mg potassium iodide/kg dry food), and a home‐prepared diet supplemented with 5.6 mg potassium iodide/kg dry food. Groups B and C developed hypothyroidism. A significant decrease (p<0.05 ) in the styloid apophyseal surface was found in groups B and C vs. A, determined by radiography. Histologically, the hypertrophied cartilage was shorter in groups B and C than in group A (p<0.0001). The present results suggest that commercial diets with a high iodine content may cause hypothyroidism and changes in bone metabolism.

Termination of mid-term pregnancy in the dog with oral RU 486

A total of four pregnancies were terminated in three bitches (two beagles and one flatcoated retriever) with a single dose of 20 mg/kg (one case), two doses of 8-3 mg/kg (one case) or 20 mg/kg plus 40 mg/kg (two cases) RU 486 by mouth (Mifepristone; Roussel-Uclaf, France) from day 26 to day 36 after the first day of mating of the bitch. Abortions occurred within two, four, 11 and 11 days after the initial treatment, respectively. The clinical status of the bitches was similar to that observed during a normal parturition, ie, lowering of the body temperature, shivering, panting and nesting behaviour. No side effects were seen. The beagle bitch that aborted twice, was mated at the first oestrus after the first abortion, conceived and aborted the same number of puppies the second time. The peripheral plasma progesterone concentration at the time of treatment in all bitches was < 75 nmol/litre. It had decreased to between 24-2 and 13-1 nmol/litre at the time of abortion and to between 4-0 to 0–5 nmol/litre at four to 15 days after the initial treatment. Peripheral plasma levels of prolactin increased three- to fourfold within 24 to 48 hours after treatment, concomitant with the drop in progesterone and had returned to basal levels within two to three days. Prolactin concentrations also increased around the time of intrauterine fetal death. Prostaglandin F2aα-metabolite concentrations increased slowly after treatment, and around the time of abortion the levels increased five- to 10-fold. RU 486 seems to be a safe and effective abortifacient for use during mid-term pregnancy in the dog.

Retrospective study of myocardial canine parvovirus infection by in situ hybridization.

The diagnosis of myocardial canine parvovirus (CPV) infection used to depend on the presence of pathognomonic intranuclear inclusion bodies. The in situ hybridization technique, however, allowed to detect CPV specific nucleic acid in myocardial tissue where no inclusion bodies were found. Hence, we applied this technique to check formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded myocardial tissue from puppies with heart lesions for the presence of CPV. The tissues had been collected between 1977 and 1989. A biotinylated probe was used for in situ hybridization. This way CPV specific nucleic acid was detected in 3 dogs where CPV myocarditis had not been diagnosed on routinely stained slides because of the lack of intranuclear inclusion bodies. However, in spite of the application of the in situ hybridization technique no further myocardial CPV infection was detected in puppies with heart lesions from after 1979, confirming that the number of puppies with myocardial CPV infection declined after that year.