Highland Pet Hospital, located near the heart of the Greater Tampa Bay area, is a full-service veterinary practice providing comprehensive pet wellness care. The practice stands out as one of the region's premier facilities specializing in advanced reproductive and breeding services for dogs and cats. We serve breeders and pet owners throughout Tampa, St. Petersburg, Clearwater, Brandon, and Florida's west coast.
What is a Theriogenologist?
At the heart of Highland Pet Hospital's reproductive veterinarian services is Dr. Carla Barstow, a Diplomate of the American College of Theriogenology (DACT). Dr. Barstow's unique expertise as a Board Certified Theriogenologist, an animal reproduction specialist who has completed intensive, advanced training in all facets of animal reproduction, is the cornerstone of our practice. Her specialized knowledge is crucial for managing complex cases, assisting with infertility challenges, and navigating high-risk pregnancies. Dr. Barstow is the only board-certified reproductive veterinary specialist currently practicing in the Greater Tampa Bay area, ensuring the highest quality of care for your pets.
The Repro Vet Process
For those considering breeding their dog or cat, Highland Pet Hospital offers detailed breeding consultations, which include:
- Verifying the female's age (ideally between 1 year and 6 months to 7 years of age)
- Confirming official registration.
- Considering breed-specific factors (like the potential need for a C-section in certain breeds).
- Discussing and potentially educating owners on progesterone testing for optimal timing.
- Confirming the owner has arranged a suitable stud (as the hospital does not provide stud services).
- Reviewing preferred breeding methods (natural, artificial insemination).
- Screening for any known medical or behavioral concerns.
After the consultation, the canine or feline receives a complete medical examination. These steps ensure both the pet owner and the veterinary team are prepared and allow owners ample opportunity to ask questions.
Popular Breeds for Breeding in Tampa FL
While our hospital assists breeders of many different breeds, popular breeds frequently seen for reproductive veterinarian services in the Tampa area include:
- Collies
- Golden Retrievers
- Poodles
Commitment to Improving Breeds
Dr. Barstow emphasizes the clinic's unwavering dedication to breed improvement. The repro vet will check registration and adherence to AKC standards, advise against breeding animals with significant health problems, and utilize genetic testing to screen for inherited diseases. This commitment to breed improvement ensures that we support breeders in producing healthy champions and successful pregnancies, from initial consultation through whelping and puppy care, while upholding the highest ethical standards.
High-Risk Pregnancies
Unfortunately, pregnancy doesn't always go smoothly. In situations like these, the specialized training of a Theriogenologist like Dr. Barstow is invaluable when encountering high-risk pregnancies that require close monitoring.
New Breeders Welcome
Breeding a pet can be gratifying but requires significant knowledge, time, and resources. Highland Pet Hospital welcomes novice breeders. As reproductive animal specialists, we offer guidance and expertise to navigate the whelping process safely and effectively, aiming for healthy outcomes for both the mother and baby.
Where to Find a Theriogenologist for Reproductive Vet Care in Tampa
Based at Highland Pet Hospital, Carla Barstow, DVM, MS, DACT, is the only board-certified Theriogenologist in the Greater Tampa Bay area. Contact us to schedule a consultation or a breeding soundness exam today. We deliver personalized pet care for life!