While Orlando is a major tourist destination famous for its numerous theme parks, shopping, and entertainment attractions, it's also a sprawling metropolitan area where pets are part of the family. In 2024, the city hosted the AKC National Championship Dog Show, which brought breeders and fanciers from around the world.
Interestingly, medium and large breeds like Golden and Labrador Retrievers and German Shepherds are more prevalent in downtown Orlando, while smaller pooches like Miniature or Toy Poodles, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, and Yorkshire Terriers are popular companions in the pedestrian-friendly upscale community of Winter Park. Responsible breeding is a priority in Orange and Seminole counties, requiring access to advanced services including artificial insemination.
What Is Artificial Insemination?
Artificial Insemination (AI) for dogs is a veterinary reproductive procedure that collects semen from a male dog and deposits it into the reproductive tract of a female. We may recommend AI for several reasons:
- Overcoming physical or behavioral barriers to natural mating.
- Breeding dogs located in different cities.
- Using chilled or frozen semen from specific sires.
Canine artificial insemination gives breeders greater flexibility and control, potentially improving the genetic quality of future generations.
Information For First-Time Breeders in Orlando
Highland Pet Hospital welcomes breeders of all experience levels, including those new to dog breeding. Starting this journey requires careful preparation and access to reliable resources and support. The professional team at Highland Pet Hospital is happy to share our expertise on the reproductive cycle, conduct essential health evaluations, and offer various breeding methods, including artificial insemination, for canines in Orange and Seminole Counties and the surrounding Central Florida communities. By consulting with a board-certified Theriogenologist at Highland Pet Hospital, you will receive tailored professional insights that align with your specific breed and breeding goals, allowing you to make informed decisions regarding AI for your dog.
Best Practices & Ethical Standards in Orange County, FL
At Highland Pet Hospital, we uphold the highest ethical standards for responsible canine breeding that Orlando pet owners, breeders, and fanciers demand. This commitment ensures that we put the health and welfare of canines above all else, adhering to reputable breed standards like those set by the AKC, promoting comprehensive health and genetic screening before breeding, and providing honest, informed advice to support breeders in making sound decisions.
Collecting Seminal Fluid for AI/TCI
Naturally, collecting a viable semen sample from the male dog is a first step in any artificial insemination (AI) procedure, including canine transcervical insemination (TCI). It requires the expertise of an experienced veterinary professional to obtain a semen sample of the highest possible quality, ensuring optimal sperm viability and motility. This process is minimally invasive and is designed to be as comfortable as possible for the dog. The high-quality sample is essential for successful fertilization, whether for immediate insemination, short-term preservation through chilling, or long-term storage via cryopreservation (freezing).
Why We Recommend Transcervical Insemination (TCI) for Dogs
Dr. Carla Barstow often recommends transcervical insemination (TCI) as the preferred method for most cases of artificial canine insemination. There are several reasons for this, including:
- Less Invasive: Unlike surgical AI, TCI for dogs does not require general anesthesia or an abdominal incision.
- Effective Semen Placement: The Theriogenologist will use an endoscope where semen is deposited directly into the uterus, which is the optimal location for fertilization, similar to surgical AI but without the associated risks.
- Visualization: TCI allows the veterinarian to visualize the vaginal canal and cervix during the procedure, helping to navigate anatomies and identify potential issues.
TCI is a safer and often more effective option for dog breeders seeking safe and reliable artificial insemination services in the Orlando area.
Artificial Insemination & TCI for Canines in Greater Orlando
Dr. Carla Barstow is a board-certified reproductive veterinarian and a diplomate of the American College of Theriogenology at Highland Pet Hospital in nearby Lakeland. She offers advanced reproductive and health services to pet parents, breeders, and dog enthusiasts throughout Florida, including Winter Park, Kissimmee, Oviedo, and Winter Garden. Her proficiency in dog transcervical insemination and other AI procedures for dogs makes Highland Pet Hospital the leading destination for canine reproductive care in Greater Orlando. Contact Highland Pet Hospital today to schedule an appointment. We deliver personalized pet care for life!