The use of trans-abdominal ultrasound for pregnancy detection and fetal aging before day 45 of gestation in the sheep

Authors

  • A. K. Jones Department of Animal Science, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT 06269
  • R. E. Gately Department of Environmental and Population Health, Tufts Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine, North Grafton, MA 01536
  • K. K. McFadden Department of Animal Science, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT 06269
  • S. A. Zinn Department of Animal Science, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT 06269
  • K. E. Govoni Department of Animal Science, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT 06269
  • S. A. Reed Department of Animal Science, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT 06269

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.21423/aabppro20153614

Keywords:

ultrasound, pregnancy detection, accuracy, small ruminant, sheep

Abstract

Trans-abdominal ultrasound is a reliable technique for pregnancy detection in the small ruminant, and has become increasingly adaptable to field conditions in a production setting. Currently, limited information is available related to early pregnancy detection and estimating fetal age using this technique. Therefore, our objective was to determine the accuracy of trans-abdominal ultrasound during early pregnancy in the ewe. We hypothesized that trans-abdominal ultrasound is sensitive enough to distinguish reproductive status, and determine fetal age and number before day 40 of gestation.

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Published

2015-09-17

Issue

Section

AASRP Research Summaries