At Vet Trust Henderson, we are proud to offer comprehensive canine reproduction services to support breeders through every stage of their breeding journey. Whether you are planning your first litter or working with chilled or imported frozen semen, our experienced veterinary team provides professional reproductive care using modern equipment and evidence-based techniques.
Transcervical Insemination (TCI) is a non-surgical method of artificial insemination that allows semen to be deposited directly into the uterus using a specialised endoscope and catheter. The procedure is performed with the bitch standing and, in most cases, does not require sedation. TCI can be performed using fresh, chilled, or frozen semen and offers excellent conception rates without the need for invasive surgery.
Accurate timing is the key to a successful insemination. We use progesterone testing to determine the optimal breeding window and develop an individualised breeding plan for each bitch to maximise the chances of conception.
We provide secure, long-term frozen semen storage in liquid nitrogen, preserving valuable genetics for future breeding programmes. Whether you are storing semen from your own stud dog or imported semen from overseas, we maintain strict storage protocols to ensure its integrity until it is required for breeding.
Timing is one of the most important factors in achieving a successful pregnancy. Our in-house and Awanui progesterone testing allows us to accurately monitor your bitch’s hormone levels throughout her season and identify the ideal time for breeding or insemination.
Rapid turnaround of results means we can provide prompt breeding recommendations, reducing the risk of missed ovulation and improving conception rates.
Pregnancy ultrasound is typically performed from around 28 days after ovulation or mating. This gentle, non-invasive examination allows us to confirm pregnancy by visualising developing embryos and detecting their heartbeats.
Ultrasound also enables us to assess the health and viability of the pregnancy and answer any questions you may have as your bitch progresses towards whelping. While ultrasound is excellent for confirming pregnancy, it is not intended to accurately determine litter size.
A puppy count radiograph is recommended from approximately day 55 of pregnancy, once the puppies’ skeletons have mineralised and are visible on X-rays.
Radiographs provide the most accurate estimate of litter size and are an invaluable tool when preparing for whelping. Knowing approximately how many puppies to expect helps breeders monitor labour more confidently and determine when delivery is complete or when veterinary assistance may be required.
We offer both planned (elective) and emergency caesarean sections to ensure the best possible outcome for both the bitch and her puppies. Elective caesareans are carefully timed using progesterone testing and fetal assessment to maximise puppy viability while minimising risks to the mother.
Should complications arise during labour, our experienced veterinary team is equipped to perform emergency caesarean sections promptly and safely. We provide comprehensive care before, during, and after surgery, including neonatal support to give every puppy the best possible start in life.
Breeding dogs is both exciting and rewarding, and we’re here to support you throughout the process. From reproductive planning and ovulation timing to pregnancy confirmation, elective or emergency caesarean sections, and pre-whelping care, Vet Trust Henderson is committed to providing knowledgeable, compassionate veterinary support tailored to your breeding programme.
With practical breeding experience, advanced reproductive services, and a genuine passion for canine reproduction, our team is dedicated to helping breeders achieve healthy pregnancies, healthy puppies, and successful breeding outcomes.
To discuss your breeding plans or book a reproduction consultation, contact the friendly team at Vet Trust Henderson today.
