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The present study was conducted to standardise the protocol for microencapsulation of buck spermatozoa for its chilled preservation. Semen ejaculates collected from Malabari bucks of age two to three years, weighing 42 to 46 Kg and maintained under uniform managemental conditions were utilised. Sodium alginate of concentrations 0.5, 0.75 and 1.5 per cent with varying gauge sized hypodermic needles of 18G, 20G and 23G were used. The distance between the tip of the needle and the upper meniscus of BaCl2 solution was adjusted to varied distance like ≥ 7 cm, 3.5 to 5 cm, ≤ 2cm. This resulted in capsule sizes of 1 mm, 2 mm, 3 mm, 4 mm, 4.5 mm, 6 mm and 7 mm. Different shape of capsules like globular, plate like, irregular, tear-drop and oval were obtained and the capsule stability varied from 35 to 75 per cent. Capsule parameters were assessed at 0 h, 24 h, 48 h, 72 h and 96 h of chilled preservation in EYC extender at ratio of (1:2). The results of the present study cited that 1.5 per cent sodium alginate concentration, with 23G sized hypodermic needle and distance of 3.5 cm were ideal to acquire uniform spherical shaped stable capsule of size 1.90 ± 0.03 and stability of 75 per cent Keywords: Microencapsulation, chilled preservation, buck spermatozoa, Malabari

The study aimed to evaluate suitable hormonal treatment regimen for inducing oestrus in postpartum anoestrus Vechur cows and its reproductive outcome. The efficiency of Ovsynch and Ovsynch + progesterone protocols in 12 anoestrus cows was studied. Six anoestrus cows were kept as untreated control and they were observed for a period of 180 days postpartum. Both treatment protocols resulted in a complete oestrus induction response of 100 per cent. The interval from treatment to induced oestrus was significantly lower in the Ovsynch group (50.10 ± 1.44 h) than in the Ovsynch + progesterone (54.40 ± 0.48 h) group. In comparison to the control group, treatment group animals displayed a high intensity score for oestrus. The duration of oestrus in the Ovsynch group (26.41 ± 0.53 h) was significantly longer than the control (24.45 ± 0.46 h) group and the Ovsynch + progesterone group (24.13 ± 0.42 h). The overall conception rate for three consecutive AI in Ovsynch, Ovsynch + progesterone and control group were 66.67, 83.33 and 33.33 per cent, respectively. The calving to conception intervals were significantly (p

The current study was conducted to evaluate the quality of specific fractions of three Large White Yorkshire (LWY) boar semen samples. Fifteen semen samples were collected by gloved hand method as an initial 10 mL of sperm rich fraction (SRF- F1), remaining SRF (F2) and whole semen. Samples were evaluated for colour, volume, pH, sperm concentration and progressive motility. The first 10 mL of SRF of boar semen contained 25 per cent of the total ejaculate spermatozoa and was able to withstand cooling, freezing and thawing better than the spermatozoa of the bulk ejaculate. A significant difference between the fractions was observed in the volume of semen ejaculated, pH and sperm concentration across different fractions of the same ejaculate. The differences in semen fractions were attributed to the differences in the composition of seminal plasma of the initial fraction of SRF Keywords: Boar semen, sperm rich fraction, semen evaluation

The present study was carried out to assess the influence of three seasons in Kerala on the yield and quality of oocytes from crossbred (CB) dairy cows (n=27), subjected to ultrasound-guided transvaginal oocyte recovery (TVOR). Meteorological data including, ambient temperature (AbT) and relative humidity (RH) was recorded and Temperature Humidity Index (THI) was calculated. In each season, selected animals (n=9) were subjected to TVOR; data regarding the number of follicles available for puncture (>2mm), number of aspirated follicles, number of oocytes retrieved and oocyte recovery rate were recorded. The retrieved oocytes were subjected to morphological evaluation. Significantly higher (P

The study was conducted to assess the difference in post-thaw quality parameters of Malabari buck spermatozoa of good and poor semen freezability. The ejaculates collected from Malabari bucks of good (n=3) and poor (n=3) semen freezability were pooled separately as group A and group B, respectively after the initial evaluation. The extended semen in each group was processed and cryopreserved by the conventional method of static vapour freezing. After thawing, the quality of semen in both groups was assessed in terms of progressive motility, viability, morphological abnormalities, acrosome integrity, functional membrane integrity and lipid peroxidation status (MDA) of spermatozoa. Results showed that there was no significant difference between the fresh semen characteristics of group A and B bucks except for concentration, progressive motility and functional membrane integrity of spermatozoa. But, post-thaw quality of groups A and B differed significantly in terms of progressive motility (48.89 ± 0.64 % vs 18.06 ± 1.08 %), viability (55.17 ± 0.57 % vs 26.33 ± 0.95 %), acrosome integrity (62.44 ± 0.62 % vs 33.42 ± 0.34 %), functional membrane integrity (47.00 ± 0.36 % vs 23.36 ± 0.63 %) and MDA concentration (7.83 ± 0.29 nmol/mL vs 13.95 ± 0.08 nmol/mL) whereas morphological abnormalities (2.11 ± 0.08 % vs 2.39 ± 0.09 %) did not differ significantly. The findings of the present study showed that even with similar fresh semen characteristics, spermatozoa from different Malabari bucks have varying degrees of cryosurvivability.

Twenty bitches with previous history of subfertility presented for breeding management at University Veterinary Hospital, Kokkalai were selected for the study. The stage of oestrous cycle was determined and breeding scheduled based predominantly on anuclear cell index (ACI) and serum progesterone assay, after giving due weightage to behaviour and clinical signs. First mating was considered as day 0 and the second as day 3. The mean ACI of the bitches under study was 56.4 ± 1.53 per cent and the mean serum progesterone levels was recorded as 2.82± 0.16 ng/mL three days prior to breeding (day 3). Since, ACI had highly positive correlation with serum progesterone level (Pearson’s correlation coefficient being 0.880) in subfertile bitches three days prior to first breeding, it could be inferred that, when the mean ACI reached more than 55 per cent, serum progesterone levels reach values corresponding to presumably the day of LH surge and by considering both the variables, the day of ovulation could be predicted. Hence, the correlation analysis of ACI and progesterone assay can be considered as reliable method to schedule optimum breeding time in subfertile bitches.

The study was aimed at investigating the effect of seasonal changes on luteal growth and regression characteristics in crossbred (CB) cows of Kerala. The seasons of the year were classified as rainy (June-September), post-monsoon (October-January) and summer (February- May). In each season, nine healthy regularly cycling CB lactating pluriparous cows were selected for the study. Luteal growth and regression pattern were studied at 24 h intervals from one ovulation to the next ovulation, by transrectal ultrasound (TRUS) examination of the ovaries. During the study period, parameters like the day of earliest detection of corpus hemorrhagicum (CH), size at detection, maximum size of corpus luteum (CL), the day of CL with maximum diameter, day of onset and completion of CL regression were recorded and compared between seasons. Corpus hemorrhagicum was detected one day after ovulation in 55.60, 66.70 and 80 per cent of animals during rainy, post-monsoon and summer seasons, respectively. There existed no statistically significant difference in the size of CL, either on the day of first detection or on the day of maximum size attainment. However, CL during the rainy season needed a significantly (P

Canine transmissible venereal tumour (CTVT) is the most common neoplasm of the genital sites transmitted through allogenic transplantation of tumour cells during coitus or at extragenital sites like oral or nasal mucosa by licking, scratching or sniffing affected area. In this study the overall occurrence of CTVT and its occurrence was analysed based on breed, age, gender, parity, season, reproductive status and breeding history, collected from retrospective data of clinical records maintained at University Veterinary Hospitals. The overall occurrence of CTVT was 0.15 per cent among total presented cases, 0.88 per cent among total reproductive disorders, 21.42 per cent among total canine tumour cases and 4.74 per cent among cases with vaginal bleeding. Higher occurrence was recorded in female dogs (88.59%), dogs aged 2-5 years (73.91%), intact females (88.04%), pluriparous dogs (41.10%) and during south-west monsoon season (32.07%). Breed wise occurrence was higher in Labrador Retriever dogs (41.30%) followed by non-descript dogs (22.28%). Occurrence was higher in dogs with history of mating with stud dogs (81.60%) when compared to stray dogs (18.40%).

Canine pyometra is a hormonally mediated life-threatening uterine disease of canines, associated with bacterial infection and inflammation. The disease is characterized by the accumulation of pus in the uterus and systemic illness. The study was undertaken to assess the relevance of band cells in circulation and Doppler ultrasonography in the prognostic evaluation of medically managed canine pyometra. A significantly higher band of neutrophils were recorded among bitches presented with pyometra, which reduced to the physiologically normal range as treatment progressed in the animals which responded to the treatment. The resistive index, which was lower than the threshold value of 0.72, increased as the treatment progressed in the responsive animals and proved to be a reliable tool as a recovery marker.

The study evaluated the effect of extenders and sperm concentration on the migration efficiency of Malabari buck spermatozoa in bovine cervical mucus. Fresh semen ejaculates collected on six different days from three adult healthy Malabari bucks were pooled and divided into four groups based on the extender used (tris-egg yolk-based or liposome-based extender) and rate of extension (200 or 400 million motile spermatozoa per 0.5 mL) (n=6 per group) and subjected to cryopreservation. After freezing and thawing, Malabari buck spermatozoa cryopreserved in liposome-based extender travelled significantly (p

The present study evaluated the role offollicular fluid exosomes on the developmental competence of bovine oocytes. Ovaries from slaughtered crossbred cattle were collected, all visible surface follicles aspirated, and culture-grade oocytes were subjected to further study. Exosomes were isolated from bovine follicular fluid by differential ultracentrifugation. A total of 358 oocytes selected for the study were randomly divided into two groups. Group I constituted 111 oocytes, in which normal maturation was carried. Group II constituted 247 oocytes, in which in vitro maturation (IVM) medium was supplemented with follicular fluid exosomes at 1 μL/100 μL IVM medium. Maturation was assessed after 24h of culture in a CO2 incubator maintained at 38.5°C in 95 per cent humidified atmosphere of 5 per cent CO2. Following IVM of oocytes for 24 h, in vitro fertilisation (IVF)was carried out by co-incubating with capacitated spermatozoa for 18 h and embryo culture was carried out subsequently. In group II oocytes supplemented with exosomes, a significantly higher maturation rate (p ≤0.01) (95.80 ±1.67 vs76.10 ± 0.95), fertilisation rate (53.68 ± 3.02vs37.85 ± 7.01) and cleavage rate (p ≤0.01) (43.66 ± 2.13vs(32.47 ± 5.23) was noticed compared to oocytes in group I without any supplementation.The present study established that supplementation of follicular fluid exosomescould improve the developmental competence of bovine oocytes.

This study aimed to evaluate the combined thickness of uterus and placenta, foetal heart rate and serum progesterone concentration in prepartum bitches. Eighteen pregnant female dogs in the last week of gestation were subjected to ultrasonographic examination and progesterone assay to evaluate changes prior to impending whelping. No significant difference was found in the combined thickness of uterus and placenta measurements in the last week of gestation. However, foetal heart rate showed oscillations and progesterone declined 12h prior to whelping.

Canine brucellosis or beagle fever is a zoonotic bacterial reproductive disease of dogs, caused by Brucella canis and occasionally by Brucella abortus, B. melitensis and B. suis. The actual seroprevalence of canine brucellosis in India is unknown and not yet studied in Kerala. A total of 131 animals presented to the outpatient unit of medicine, gynaecology and obstetrics of the two University Veterinary Hospitals at Mannuthy and Kokkala with clinical signs of epididymitis, orchitis, abortion, still birth, foetal resorption, foetal mummification, foetal maceration, neonatal death and infertility were randomly selected for the study. Paired sera samples were collected on the day of presentation and after three weeks of presentation for Rose Bengal Plate Test (RBPT). In this study, sera samples from forty-seven (35.88 per cent) infected dogs showed agglutination on RBPT using B. abortus S99 antigen. Out of forty-seven RBPT positive samples, 80.85 per cent (38/47) were female and 19.15 per cent (9/47) were male dogs. The high seroprevalence of canine brucellosis in this study is attributed to the endemicity of bovine brucellosis in the study area.

Primary uterine inertia is the inherent inability of the uterus to contract and expel a fully grown foetus after the end of the gestation period, through a normal birth canal, in the absence of obstructive dystocia.There are conflicting reports regarding the blood parameters in parturient animals, and animals with dystocia and its role in uterine inertia are not well documented. Haematology analysis was performed in dogs with Complete Primary Uterine Inertia (CPUI, n=9) and Partial Primary Uterine Inertia (PPUI, n=6), as well as control animals with the Foetal Cause of Dystocia (FCD, n=7).Blood samples were collected from the study population and total leucocyte count (TLC), total erythrocyte count (TEC), differential leucocyte count (DLC), erythrocytic indices, haemoglobin and haematocrit values were estimated in an autoanalyzer. Haematology analysis revealed no significant difference between the groups. Differential leucocyte counts exhibited lymphocytosis across the groups suggestive of the active immune response related to CL lysis, a characteristic associated with the termination of the pregnancy in canines. Erythrocyte count, haemoglobin concentration and haematocrit revealed anaemia across the group. The study characterised the haematology profile of prepartum canines, which indicated anaemia associated with haemodilution and lymphocytosis associated with active immune status. It also proved that the haematology profile doesnot have any significant role in the pathogenesis of canine uterine inertia.

The study was designed to compare the cryotolerance of in vitro matured bovine oocytes, supplemented with L- carnitine and niacin in maturation media, vitrified using cryoloop technique. Bovine ovaries were collected from the slaughterhouse and cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) were retrieved by follicular aspiration. Culture quality COCs were selected and randomly allocated to three different experimental groups. Group I oocytes (control), were subjected to in vitro maturation (IVM) in basic maturation media, while Group II and III oocytes (experimental groups) were matured in media supplemented with L- carnitine (0.6 mg/mL) and niacin (400 μM/mL), respectively. The mean per cent of cumulus cell expansion was 80.92 ±0.02, 79.18 ± 0.03 and 87.95 ±0.02 for Group I, II and III, respectively. A significantly high (p < 0.05) cumulus cell expansion could be observed in niacin treated group than L- carnitine, whereas a difference close to being statistically significant (p = 0.057) was noticed between niacin treated and control groups. The matured oocytes were subjected to cryoloopvitrification using dimethylsulfoxide (15%), ethylene glycol (15%) and sucrose (0.05M) as cryoprotectants. The mean survival rate observed in the study was 67.26 ± 0.05, 76.34 ± 0.05 and 79.68 ± 0.03 per cent for Group I, II and III, respectively. Shrinkage of cytoplasm was the most common type of cryodamage observed in all the three groups followed by cracked zona pellucida, abnormal shape and increased peri vitelline space. The survived oocytes were subjected to in vitro fertilisation with no significant difference between the groups in fertilisation rate. The present study revealed the beneficiary effect of supplementing niacin over L- carnitine in maturation media as it improved the maturation and survival rates of bovine oocytes.

This study aimed to evaluate the Doppler ultrasonographic features of ventral perineal artery of bitches during different phases of oestrous cycle. Sixteen pluriparous bitches were subjected to transperineal Doppler ultrasonography during different stages of oestrous cycle by confirming the stage by exfoliative vaginal cytotlogy (EVC) and vaginoscopy. The resistivity index (RI), pulsatility index (PI), peak systolic velocity (PSV), end diastolic velocity (EDV) and systolic/ diastolic velocity (S/D) were analysed. No significant difference was found between the Doppler velocimetric parameters of ventral perineal artery during different phases of oestrous cycle by trasnperineal Doppler ultrasonography.

The study was conducted to assess the effect of supplementation of Moringa oleifera leaves on reproductive performance in Malabari doelings. Apparently healthy Malabari kids (n= 32) of age three months were selected and randomly allocated to two different treatment groups. Control group (T1, n= 16) was fed with complete feed as pellets and experimental group (T2, n=16) was given complete feed pellets in which 50 per cent of concentrate was replaced with M. oleifera leaves on dry matter (DM) basis. The mean initial and final body weight and dry matter intake did not differ significantly but showed a linear increase in both the groups. Haematological parameters (Hb, Haematocrit, TEC, TLC) did not vary significantly between groups, however, mean total protein was significantly higher (p< 0.05) and mean ALT was significantly lower in T2. Post weaning mean progesterone profile remained less than 1ng/mL until fifth month of age, showed significant increase during sixth month (T1- 0.24 ng/mL, T2- 0.44ng/mL; p< 0.5) and was elevated more than 1ng/mL during seventh month in T2 (T1- 0.72 ± 0.22 ng/mL, T2- 1.14 ± 0.29 ng/mL). First behavioural oestrus was observed during sixth month age without any significant variation. The present study revealed safe and effective means of replacing 50 per cent concentrate feed with in M. oleifera leaves in Malabari doelings in advancing puberty without affecting the growth performance.

The aim of this study was to characterise the follicular dynamics in first two oestrous cycles of peripubertal Malabari goats. Transrectal ultrasonography was carried out on alternate days of oestrous cycles after first observed oestrus. Follicular studies revealed presence of two to five wave cycles with predominant three and four wave patterns. The interwave interval for ovulatory wave was longer than preceding waves in three and five wave cycles. The diameter of largest follicles in wave 1 was larger than follicles of subsequent waves of three, four and five wave cycles. The largest follicles in each wave could be observed from day 3 to day 13 of oestrous cycle. Majority of ovulations occurred on day 20 of oestrous cycles and short cycles were more in first oestrous cycle. The overall mean per cent of single and double ovulations were 56.3 and 43.8 and mean ovulatory follicle size was 6.59 ± 0.11 mm in peripubertal goats. The mean length of first and second oestrous cycle was observed as 17.72± 0.79 and 20.19± 0.43 days, respectively and mean duration of first and second oestrus was 36.88 ± 2.44 and 40.13 ± 1.84 h, respectively. The study revealed that predominant wave pattern was three and four waves in peripubertal Malabari breeds. The first oestrous cycle length was shorter and characterised by higher percentage of single ovulations with smaller periovulatory follicle size. Larger ovulatory follicles and double ovulations were observed in second oestrous cycle.

Early detection of uterine inertia is very crucial for the life of the foetus as well as that of the dam. Suitable methods for early detection of uterine inertia are lacking in canines compared to humans.Non-invasivetocodynamometry is a promising method, which is widely used in humans for the management of uterine inertia.In the present study non-invasive uterine contraction monitoring using the tocodynamometry was performed in dogs with Complete Primary Uterine Inertia (CPUI) and Partial Primary Uterine Inertia (PPUI), as well as in control animals with the Foetal Cause of Dystocia (FCD).In all the dogs belonging to CPUI and PPUI, the contractions were mild and infrequent with force near to the baseline, i.e., less than 15 mm of Hg. There were no reflex contractions in response to the feathering of the vaginal wall in a majority of dogs belonging to these two groups. In the FCD group, there were strong and frequent contractions lasting for two to three minutes with contraction force above 15mm of Hg, reaching up to 30-40 mm of Hg. Those dogs with less than 15 mm of Hg pressure and feeble or infrequent contractions without delivery for more than 30 min, could be considered as uterine inertia and suitable therapeutic options could be considered judiciously. Tocodynamometry was found to be an effective tool for the early detection of uterine inertia,whichhelped arriving at a quick judicious decision which is pertinent for better foetal and maternal survival.

Postpartum diseases of uterus represent a foremost predicament in cattle farms affecting reproductive efficiency. Postpartum (PP) uterine diseases include metritis, endometritis and subclinical endometritis (SCE). Barring SCE, all other diseases project the clinical signs. Diagnosis of SCE at the early stage of PP has been a challenging task for many veterinarians. The present study aimed to validate and correlate the proficiency of transitional changes in uterus and cervix assessed by transrectal ultrasonography (TRUS) and endometrial cytology (EC) in the diagnosis of SCE in PP cattle. The research was carried out in two phases i.e, 30th day postpartum (DPP) (n=74) and first exhibited oestrus after 45th DPP (n=24) (54.63 ± 1.13 d) to emphasise the proficiency of both the diagnostic modalities. Endometrial cytology could discriminate between cows positive and negative for SCE significantly at 30th DPP (20.54 ± 0.48 vs 5.55 ± 0.41). It was potent in diagnosing SCE after 45th DPP also, as a significant reduction in the per cent of PMN cells (20.54 ± 0.48 to 7.56 ± 0.32) was noticed. Uterine parameters assessed by TRUS like cervical and uterine diameter and endometrial thickness in both the phases of assessment did not correlate to the EC changes and also could not discriminate between SCE positive and negative animals. The results of the study signify that EC is efficacious in the diagnosis of SCE in cows, while TRUS is impractical as a sole diagnostic modality for SCE.

The objective of the current study involved assessment of correlation between the expression of oestrogen receptor (ERα) and Ki-67 by immunohistochemistry, in the genital borne neoplasms in 12 postpubertal bitches between 2 to 12 years of age, presented at University Veterinary Hospitals, Kokkalai and Mannuthy. The age group of 5-8 years had the highest incidence of neoplasia (50.00 %) in comparison with other groups. Episiotomy was performed for extraluminal tumours while local excision performed in all intraluminal tumours except canine transmissible venereal tumour (CTVT). A chemotherapeutic regimen involving intravenous infusion of vincristine sulphate at 0.025 mg/kg was administered to bitches with CTVT and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) until complete remission of the neoplasm. The tumours were histopathologically confirmed as myofibroma (n=6), CTVT (n= 3), leiomyoma (n = 1), SCC (n = 1) and fibroma (n = 1). Immunohistochemical staining of the neoplastic tissues was performed to evaluate ERα and Ki-67 expression status which could aid in estimating the malignancy potential and influence of ERα on the same. Spearman’s rank correlation between the immunohistochemical scores for the expression of ERα and Ki-67 in these tumours was highly significant (p

The present study was carried out to find the correlation between different live animal physical measurements and some economically important carcass parameters and to predict these carcass parameters using multiple linear regression models. Heart girth and flank girth showed a highly significant (p

Twenty dogs presented for breeding soundness evaluation were selected for the present study. Based on previous six month breeding history and semen quality, these animals were grouped retrospectively into fertile (n=6) and subfertile (n=14) groups. Three semen collections were made from each of these dogs, two weeks apart. Semen evaluation parameters like volume, sperm concentration, progressive motility, viability, morphologically normal sperms, total sperm output and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) level in the sperm-rich fraction were compared between the two groups. The mean values for progressive motility, sperm concentration, total sperm output and viability were 84.17 ± 1.54 per cent, 418.33 ± 36.64 million/mL, 645.11±98.43 million and 84.92 ± 1.56 per cent, respectively, in the fertile group, while the values for these parameters were 45.71 ± 3.47 per cent, 112.07 ± 24.36 million/mL, 190.24±32.45 million and 49.54 ± 2.35 per cent, respectively in the subfertile group. The values were significantly higher in fertile group when compared to subfertile group. The mean ALP (IU/L) was recorded as 168121.67 ± 22443.25 and 49605.86 ± 12669.68 IU/L, respectively in fertile and subfertile dogs. On statistical analysis, a highly significant difference (p˂0.01) was noticed between the groups. Though the concentration of ALP was more than 40,000 IU/L (below which is the proposed cut off value for incomplete ejaculation) in all the dogs under the present study, it was significantly higher in fertile dogs, suggesting a possible relation to fertility.

India is endemic to bovine brucellosis, and there is a high potential for transmission of disease from ruminants to dogs. A total of 18 bitches belonging to five different breeds at different stage of abortion (30 days to 65 days of gestation) were selected for this study. Majority of them were showing abortion (88.89 per cent) at 45 to 65 days of the gestation. Microscopic examination of Stamp stained smear obtained from the aborted foetal stomach contents revealed red coccobacillary organisms suggestive of Brucella spp.in three cases. RBPT on paired sera samples on day of presentation and three weeks after abortion showed agglutination within four minutes in five out of 18 female dogs. DNA extracted from the aborted tissues of a RBPT positive Labrador dog yielded amplicons of 193 base pair specific for Brucella spp. on PCR. The results obtained from this study stress the need for screening dogs for canine brucellosis in the current brucellosis surveillance and control programmes.

Study evaluated the role of cAMP modulator (Forskolin and 3-isobutyl-1- methyl xanthine) supplementation on developmental competence of bovine oocytes. Cumulus oocyte complexes recovered from bovine ovaries of unknown reproductive status were used for the study. Oocytes retrieved by aspiration method were graded based on cumulus cell distribution and culture grade oocytes were selected for the study. A total of 414 culture grade oocytes were taken and divided into two groups. Group I constituted of 201 oocytes in which pre-maturation was carried out for a period of 2 h. In group II, 213 oocytes were selected in which normal maturation was carried out. Maturation was assessed after 24h of culture in CO2 incubator maintained at 38.5o C in 95 per cent humidified atmosphere of 5 per cent CO2 . Fertilisation was carried out using frozen thawed semen and the presumptive zygotes were then transferred to culture media and cleavage was assessed 48 h after insemination. A significantly higher maturation rate (p ≤0.05) was observed in group I compared to group II (86.85 ± 1.19 vs 79.88 ± 2.67). There was a highly significant increase (p ≤0.01) in cleavage rate in group I (65.92 ± 1.23) compared to group II (59.29 ± 1.50). A higher fertilisation rate was observed in group I (75.35 ± 1.19) than group II (71.88 ± 2.56). It could be concluded that pre-maturation with cAMP modulators improved the developmental competence of bovine oocytes.

The present study was conducted to assess the developmental competence of goat oocytes selected using Brilliant cresyl blue (BCB) staining. Goat ovaries were collected from the slaughtered animals with unknown reproductive history. The oocytes retrieved by aspiration technique were selected based on morphology and subjected to BCB staining. Brilliant cresyl blue staining is based on the activity of glucose-6-phospahte dehydrogenase (G6PDH) enzyme synthesised by the oocytes. The cytoplasm remains blue in oocytes that have finished the growth phase (BCB+) while the growing oocytes remain colourless (BCB-). The stained and unstained oocytes were subjected to in vitro maturation separately to assess cumulus cell expansion index and polar body extrusion. A total of 206 culture grade oocytes were subjected to study, out of which, 76.75 ± 2.38 per cent of oocytes showed positive to BCB staining and 23.21 ± 2.38 per cent were negatively stained. Significantly higher maturation rate was observed in BCB+(92.89 ± 2.37%) oocytes than BCB-(29.72 ± 2.46%). The present study concluded that BCB staining can be used for selecting goat oocytes with good cytoplasmic maturation for further in vitro embryo production.

A large variation in the gestation length can be expected when the gestation is calculated from the day of mating to birth. The present study was designed to assess the influence of different factors like litter size, breed, parity and age on gestation length in bitches. A total of 89 small sized bitches of different breeds having different age, parity and body weight, were selected for the study. The mean age, body weight and parity of the animals included in the present study were 3.00 ± 0.15 years (1 to 8 years), 9.9 ± 0.25 Kg (6 to 15kg) and 1.14 ± 0.10 (0-4th parity) respectively. The mean gestation lengths observed in different small sized breeds were 60.68 ± 0.55, 59.82 ± 0.54, 60.78 ± 1.74, 58.83 ± 1.35 and 58.17 ± 0.74 in the Pug, Beagle, Dachshund, French Bulldog and the Spitz, respectively. The mean litter size in the study was 4.34 ± 0.13 with a range of 2-8. The mean gestational length in animals having ≤ 3 litter size was 60.83 ± 0.64 days and 59.90 ± 0.43 days in animals having >3 litter size. Age limit of the animals ranged from 1 to 8 years with a mean of 3 ± 0.15 years. The mean gestation length in bitches aged ≤3 years was 60.21 ± 0.23 days (n=63) and this was 60.15 ± 0.3 (n=26) days in bitches in the >3 years group. Mean gestational length observed in nulliparous bitches was 60.86 ± 0.4 days (n=29), while in multiparous bitches it was 59.90 ± 0.5 days (n=60). From the present investigation it could be concluded that no significant difference exists in gestational length between different breeds, litter size, age group and parity

A study was conducted in 18 healthy, fertile, non-pregnant, dioestrous female dogs to evaluate the efficacy of PGF2α analogue (cloprostenol sodium) in shortening the dioestrus. Bitches that were diagnosed non-pregnant by trans-abdominal ultrasonography, on day 30 of breeding and their dioestrual stage confirmed by serum progesterone assay, were randomly allotted to three groups of six bitches each. Group I and II bitches were treated with cloprostenol sodium @ 2.5 µg/kg b. wt., subcutaneously, thrice at 48 h interval, beginning on day 30 and 45 of last breeding, respectively. Group III animals were assigned as control and were left untreated. Fifty days from first injection of cloprostenol, serum progesterone assay was carried out among the animals in Group I and II whereas the same was done among Group III bitches on day 90 after last breeding. Among Group I and II, mean serum progesterone concentrations were 0.93 ± 0.04 and 0.87 ± 0.01ng/ mL, respectively whereas the level was 1.72 ± 0.9 ng/mL among control group; highly significant difference (p

Six dogs each with open and closed-cervix pyometra (Group I and II) were medically managed with mifepristone @ 2.5mg/kg body weight orally twice daily for five days, followed by cloprostenol @ 5µg/kg body weight subcutaneously on every alternate day after ensuring cervical patency, till complete evacuation of uterus was assessed by ultrasonography. Haematological and serum biochemical values were estimated on the day of presentation. The treatment response was assessed by reviewing both haematological and serum biochemical values further on days 3, 7, 14 and 21 of treatment. The mean total erythrocyte count (TEC), haemoglobin concentration and volume of packed red cells (VPRC) were significantly lower and mean total leucocyte count (TLC) was significantly higher in all animals of both groups during the day of presentation. The values significantly improved after initiation of treatment. Total thrombocyte count, serum total protein, albumin, BUN and serum creatinine levels were within the normal range. TEC, TLC, Hb concentration, VPRC could be used for prognostic markers of treatment evaluation in canine pyometra.

Hyperplasia of vaginal mucous membrane is an unusual reproductive disorder observed in canines. It is the protrusion of oedematous vaginal tissue into and through the opening of the vulva occurring during proestrus and oestrus stages of the sexual cycle. This study was aimed to find out the overall occurrence of canine vaginal hyperplasia and its occurrence based on breeds, age, parity and stage of oestrous cycle. The occurrence of canine vaginal hyperplasia was 1.02 per cent. The highest occurrence of vaginal hyperplasia within a breed was observed in Labrador retrievers (48.94%), while the lowest occurrence was in German shepherd, Spitz, and Dachshund breeds (2.13%). The highest occurrence was recorded in dogs of one to two years old (43.62%) and the lowest occurrence in dogs of above 4 years of age (13.83%). Highest occurrence of vaginal hyperplasia was found in nulliparous (60.71%) and in intact dogs (100%).

Study was conducted to determine the occurrence of repeat breeding and prolonged oestrus among crossbred cattle in organized farms. Data were collected from breeding registers maintained on farms over a period of four years and tabulated in relation to age and parity. Overall occurrence of repeat breeding, prolonged oestrus and occurrence of prolonged oestrus among repeat breeder animals was 25.96 per cent, 25.86 per cent and 55.42 per cent, respectively. Occurrence of repeat breeding, prolonged oestrus and repeat breeding among prolonged oestrus exhibiting animals among cows was 27.35, 30.29, and 61.58 per cent, respectively. Occurrence of repeat breeding, prolonged oestrus and repeat breeding among animals exhibiting prolonged oestrus, among heifers was 23.07, 16.66, and 40.27 per cent, respectively. Among cows, the occurrence of repeat breeding was highest in the age group of 2-4 years and occurrence of prolonged oestrus among repeat breeders was highest in the age group 8-12 years.

Canine pyometra is the most common uterine disease in intact, sexually mature female dogs. The disease is broadly classified as open and closed type, based on the patency of cervix. The study was conducted to evaluate the changes in clinical, physiological and haematobiochemical parameters in open and closed-cervix pyometra. Physiological parameters were not altered among pyometra-affected dogs. Vomiting, dehydration and dullness were more frequently noticed in open-cervix pyometra cases. Significantly higher total leucocyte count and band cell per cent and significantly lower total erythrocyte count was recorded among dogs with open-cervix pyometra than closed-cervix pyometra. The present finding is contradictory to most of the previous reports

Haematological evaluation of pyometra-affected dogs, treated under different medical protocols revealed, decreased TEC (4.34±0.31 to 4.92±0.19×106 /mm3 ), leucocytosis (26.68±1.38 to 39.30±4.49×103 /mm3 ),neutrophilia(82.50±0.63to 83.38±0.46%), lymphopenia(10.25±0.41 to 11.88±0.61%), reduced VPRC (26.38±1.21 to 29.85±1.17 %) and decreased Hb (8.11±0.14to 9.04±0.45g/dL) on the day of admission. Other differentials and thrombocyte counts were within normal limits. All parameters returned to normal after medical treatment within 15 days of initiation of treatment, except TEC and Hb, which also showed improvement on different days of observation during and after treatment. Haematological changes were parallel to clinical recovery

The study was conducted to compare the effect of two anaesthetic protocols on physiological, clinical and haematological parameters of dam undergoing emergency Caesarean section (C-section) in dogs. Group I (n=6) received Total Intravenous Anaesthesia (TIVA) of propofol and Group II (n=6), a combination of propofol-isoflurane, which is commonly used in canine C-sections. The clinical parameters such as induction time, duration of surgical anaesthesia and total surgery time were similar in both the groups. Induction was rapid and recovery was smooth and early in both the groups; muscle relaxation was less with TIVA propofol compared to propofol-isoflurane. Haematological parameters were recorded before and after anaesthesia. Changes such as decrease in total leucocyte count, total erythrocyte count, haemoglobin concentration, granulocyte count and volume of packed red cells and increase in monocyte count were noticed after surgery in both the groups. The physiological parameters had slight variation but were within normal ranges during anaesthesia. It is concluded that the TIVA of propofol can be used as an alternative to the propofol -isoflurane anaesthesia combination in canine emergency C-section.

The potential of biomarkers as diagnostic or prognostic tool in canine pyometra is under investigation. The CRP evaluation of pyometra-affected dogs revealed very high levels (128.51 ± 4.07 to 136.64 ± 6.77 μg/mL) on the day of admission. The levels returned to normal after medical treatment (10.00 ± 0.28 to 12.01 ± 2.49 μg/mL) in all the treatment groups by day 15 after initiation of treatment, which was in parallel to clinical recovery. The present study revealed that CRP can be considered as effective end point marker to evaluate efficacy of the treatment

Trial carried out to study the efficacy of GnRH administration in early post-partum cows revealed that it was possible to reduce the interval from calving to first postpartum oestrus and thus to reduce the service period remarkably to an average of 69.77 days, making it possible to obtain an annual calf crop of one. Considerable reduction in dry period coupled with annual calf crop of one make this treatment cost-effective.

Resumption of cyclical activity during post-partum period is a key determinant of profitable dairying. Several drugs, hormonal and non-hormonal, either alone or in combination have been tried for early induction of oestrus in post-partum anoestrus cows (Roche et al., 1981; Macmillan and Peterson, 1993). The present investigation was envisaged to study the efficacy of EAZI-BREED CIDR devices in inducing ovulatory oestrus and fertility in post-partum anoestrus cows

A study to determine the effect of Prostaglandin F2 alpha (PGF2IX ) in inducing early fertile oestrus to improve reproductive efficiency was carried out. Twenty cross bred cows, which had normal parturition were randomly divided into two groups (I & II) and treated with 25 mg PGF2a (dinoprost) and 5 mt of saline, respectively. !t was concluded that PGF2a could be successfully used as a costeffective measure, for induction of early post partum oestrus, thereby reducing calving to conception interval.

Resumption of cyclical activity duringnpost-partum period is a key determinant of profitable dairying. Several drugs, hormonal and non-hormonal, either alone or in combination have been tried for early induction of oestrus in post-partum anoestrus cows (Roche et al., 1981; Macmillan and Peterson, 1993). The present investigation was envisaged to study the efficacy of EAZI-BREED CIDR devices in inducing ovulatory oestrus and fertility in post-partum anoestrus cows