Dry cow management is key
OPINION: We need to stop treating the dry period as just a rest between lactations and understand that it’s a significant biological reset that impacts the health and productivity of the next lactation.
This comes in the form of a small implant placed under the male dog’s skin by a veterinarian. It is called Suprelorin and is made by well-known international animal health company, with strong roots in New Zealand, Virbac.
The company says it has introduced this option to provide dog owners more choice and freedom when it comes to reproduction matters.
“More owners want to be aware of and consider all available options before making a final decision,” it says. “Suprelorin provides an alternative for dog owners who are concerned by surgery or anaesthesia or are unsure if permanent neutering is best for their pet and want to keep their options open.”
The product works by suppressing testosterone production. Testosterone is vital to sperm production and influences male dog behaviour.
No anaesthesia is required for the procedure, and it can be done in clinic during a consultation. About 6 weeks after the implant has been placed, sperm is no longer produced for at least the next 6 months and a male dog will not be able to mate successfully with a bitch.
Meanwhile, male testosterone- driven behaviour like urine marking, roaming in search of inheat bitches and competition and dominant conduct can also be addressed by using Suprelorin.
While it is guaranteed to last for at least 6 months, the product is known to be effective for up to 18 months. The company says there are no side effects, and the dog will return to normal fertility about 2 months after testosterone levels returns to normal.
A vet can easily monitor the blood testosterone levels or other visual signs in the dog that will also signal the return of reproductive capacity. The implant is usually not removed. However, if you want to ensure uninterrupted infertility it is recommended to repeat the implant again after 6 months.
A recent New Zealand working dog trial showed that dogs with the implant experienced no changes in the working behaviour or demeanour and they lost all interest in the bitches (even those on heat). There was also no change in levels of aggression (although the dogs in the trial had no history of aggression).
Feedback from dog owners found they appreciated not having to separate the dogs from the bitches during periods of heat, which avoided mismatings. They also liked that they could still breed from the dogs in the future and all reported that they would use Suprelorin again.
Farmers are advised to talk to their vets about Suprelorin, a reversible contraceptive implant for male dogs.
