Draminski Canine Ovulation Detector User Manual
One of the most essential elements in organising animal breeding is
detecting the moment of ovulation. This is of utmost importance to the
efficiency with which the female is served; effective mating being so
closely dependant on it being done at the right moment. Therefore, in
the search for a sure and simple-to-use-method of detecting ovulation,
scientists and animal breeders, determined a direct interdependence
between changes in the electrical resistance of vaginal mucus and the
occurrence of ovulation.
In the course of research on the properties of vaginal mucus,
scientists determined that the closer to ovulation, the more the change
in its electrical resistance. Knowledge to date on animal physiology,
in particular about changes occurring in sexual organs during the
estrous cycle, have enabled science to understand the correlation of
changes occurring in the ovaries and changes in electrical resistance
of mucus in the animal's vagina.
All of the above mentioned phenomena and interdependence of electrical
resistance on ovulation have been used to advantage by DRAMINSKI in
constructing the ELECTRONIC OVULATION DETECTOR for dogs.
In other words:
As in most mammals, the vaginal mucus of the female dog remains quite viscous
throughout most of her cycle in order to prevent germs etc from entering the
uterus. As the eggs are released and start to ripen, the vaginal mucus thins
in preparation to allow the sperm to enter the uterus. The Draminski Ovulation
Detector records the viscosity of this mucus and a sharp drop in the readings
indicates the start of the thinning of the mucus, about 1 day after ovulation.
This in turn indicates that the eggs will be ripe within 1 to 1 1/2 days
from the start of the drop in the graph (2 - 2 1/2 days after ovulation.
The eggs will remain ripe and fertile for about another 2 1/2 to 3 days
(for a total of five days after ovulation).
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The electronic detector consists of a measuring probe, a digital
display block where readings are taken and the handle with the ON/OFF
switch. A common 9V battery is located within the handle.
Two parallel rings (electrodes) are to be found at the end of the
probe. They are responsible for measuring the electrical resistance of
mucus found in the vagina.
The magnitude of electric current flowing through these electrodes, as
well as the electrical field created by this mini-current, is
absolutely harmless to animals and people.
The bodywork of the detector is made of polypropylene, which is
resistant to atmospheric agents and most chemicals. The instrument is
moisture proof, which thus enables the unit to be easily kept in a
clean and hygienic condition.
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The ON/OFF switch must be pressed and held on while the measurements
are taken – the switch turns off immediately it is released in
order to conserve the battery power.
When switched to "ON" in the open air the instrument will stabilise
within 1.5 to 2 seconds. While this is happening a random number or
numbers are displayed followed by the digits "1 0", indicating that the
battery is connected and the instrument operating, but no measurement
is being taken.
After insertion of the probe, ROTATE the detector to coat the tip with
vaginal mucus the detector should be turned on and
readings taken after a 1.5-2 second period of stabilisation.
Repeat the previous instruction three times. Take the average of the
three readings as your data point for this test.
The lowest unit indicated is 10 units while the full range is from 0 -
1990 units. When the upper limit is exceeded the digits "1 0" are
displayed indicating overflow. As is the case when the detector is
switched to "ON" in the open air.
Before use, ensure the electrodes are clean. Contamination with
skin-oil from handling or examination while on display in stores can
result in incorrect readings.
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Before using the ELECTRONIC DETECTOR the first-time-user is advised to:
-
Take a few measurements on a number of females which are definitely
in heat.
-
Take a few measurements on some females which are clearly not in
heat.
The difference in readings between step 1 and 2 will help the
first-time-user to get the feel of the instrument's function and
orientates the user as to differences between particular animals.
The functioning of the detector may also be tested in
"laboratory" conditions as follows:
Place the probe into a vessel containing clean water and take a
reading. This reading will either be a very high one or "1 0"
indicating overflow as the resistance of water is generally quite high.
In practice this does not occur as the electrical resistance of vaginal
mucus is far lower than the maximum range of the detector. Next add a
pinch of salt to the water and stir well. Immerse the probe and take a
reading. The result is now much lower as salt lowers the electrical
resistance of the solution (less resistance = lower reading). Addition
of another pinch of salt lowers the reading even further. This simple
experiment illustrates the function of the detector as well as the
phenomenon of abnormal fall in readings as a result of urine being
present on the electrodes as urine also contains salt.
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Before taking a reading follow these steps:
-
Check the electrical function of the detector in the open air to
make sure the battery is at proper power. (The LCD should display
the numbers "1 0")
-
Prepare a disinfectant to sterilise the probe as indicated in
Disinfecting
.
- If the vulva area is dirty, wash and wipe clean.
Taking a reading:
-
To make the examination easier it is convenient to place the dog on
low table or cupboard.
Spread the vulva gently. Insert approximately half the length of
the probe until just before the resistance is felt at the neck of
the cervix taking into account your specific breed type and size
together with the location of the neck of the cervix.
It is this area just prior to the cervix neck that has the highest
concentration of mucus.
It is advisable to insert the probe initially at an approximate
angle of 45 degrees and then 'level off' straight , in the same
action and direction as would the stud dog or during an artificial
insemination (AI). Then carefully make up to a complete rotation
so that the electrodes, on the tip of the probe, come into full contact
with vaginal mucus. The measurement ought to be done at the upper
or lower perimeter of the cervix, the upper being easier to
determine.
The probe may also be directed to the sides of the cervix towards
the horns at approximately 45 degrees of the left, then 45 degrees
to the right. Repeat this measurement a few times (at least three)
on both sides, without withdrawing the probe, to achieve consistent
and accurate readings. Take the average of the three readings to make
your data point on your graph.
Note!
Once adopted, a consistent method should be used for all the
measurements, i.e. the same length of the probe should be inserted
and the measurements have to be taken in the same part of the
vagina. Failing to do so can result in variable and inconsistent
readings.
-
Press the ON/OFF switch and hold for 1.5 – 2 seconds until
the readout on the LCD stabilises. After noting the readout release
the switch. A few readings may be taken at one insertion of the
probe according to ones adeptness at the procedure to ensure
consistent and accurate readings are obtained.
- Remove the probe gently.
-
Disinfect as instructed in the section
Disinfecting
and replace in storage box.
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A typical graph indicating the fluctuations in vaginal mucus resistance
is presented. The optimal mating period is indicated. Often in
practice, there are variations to this normal curve and the maximum
peak reading between animals. Thus, this optimal graph may be adjusted
to each breeder's own experience and that of the individual bitch.
We recommend the following interpretation of readings: If the reading
is between 100-200 units, there is no need to take daily measurements.
When readings rise above 200, daily measurements ought to be taken.
Sometimes readings at this level may last a few days and then show a
dynamic increase.
When readings begin to rise up to 600 units measurements can be taken 2
or 3 times a day to accurately determine the point of ovulation.
As shown on the graph, it is most important to record the day of
maximum resistance and the subsequent decrease. Day one, at latest day
two, of this decrease in resistance values, is the ideal time for
mating.
We encourage breeders to note the common "false peak" which
occurs before the real one. It is easy to identify as it occurs at much
lower resistance levels.
Please keep in mind that the actual numbers reached will be different
for different animals. Each physiology will be slightly different. It
is the trend in the graph that you are looking for.
Typical Readings During Heat
In practice, the variations to the above curve may occur between breeds
and individual bitches. The top figure may significantly exceed or be
lower than 600 units (examples shown below). Therefore, each bitch
should be treated individually. It is the 'profile trace' that needs to
be determined as opposed to the unit value of the readings obtained. It
is most important therefore to measure and record the resistance peak
and the moment when readings begin to fall.
Examples of non-typical readings
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Before and after each measurement, the detector must be disinfected.
Careful and thorough cleaning and disinfection of the instrument is one
of the most important conditions for proper usage.
We recommend wiping the probe with gauze, cotton linen or even tissue
paper to clean it of mucus, faeces, urine or hair, especially around
the electrodes. Next, it is best to wash it under running water and
finally immerse it in a disinfecting solution.
Always use disinfectants at concentrations given by the producer, as if
not used properly they may cause irritation of the vaginal lining,
wiping the probe clean before use will prevent this from happening.
Hibiscrub is recommended for disinfecting, however if you use Savlon or
Dettox, then the solution strength of no more than 1% should be used.
The disinfecting solution should be freshly prepared before the
detector is used again.
Note!
DRAMINSKI would like to emphasise the importance of maintaining your
detector in a hygienic condition. Carelessness about sterility or
improper usage may lead to infection of the uterus. After each usage,
wash, disinfect and dry your detector.
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-
We recommend you do not lend fellow breeders your electronic
detector in order to reduce the risk of contagious diseases being
transmitted.
- Follow disinfecting procedures closely.
- Store the detector in dry conditions at room temperature.
-
Wash the detector in luke-warm water - do not use hot or boiling
water. Dirt, or skin-oil on the electrodes will result in false
readings (too high) whereas urine on the electrodes or solutions
containing salt will cause lower readings.
-
Measurements should always be carried out in the same fashion and
at the same position in the vagina, as this will give utterly
reliable results.
- We recommend readings be taken at the cervix.
-
We at DRAMINSKI kindly ask all breeders to send us your comments
and results gained from using our detector.
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Low battery power is indicated by the words "LO BAT" flashing on the
LCD. A new battery is required when this indicator appears.
To change the battery:
-
Unscrew both screws which fix the small cover on the end of the
handle.
-
Remove the battery from the compartment and release from clasps.
- Adjust clasps to new battery and insert into compartment.
-
Replace battery cover, ensure the rubber gasket is in place and
tighten the screws.
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