Historic Success in Kromfohrlander Reproductive Care: First Frozen Transcervical Insemination (TCI) Procedure

In March this year, the Veterinary Medical Center’s (VMC) Theriogenology team made history with a remarkable achievement: the first successful frozen transcervical insemination (TCI) of a Kromfohrlander in the United States, resulting in the birth of seven healthy puppies.

Breaking New Ground for Rare Breeds

Originally from Germany, the Kromfohrlander is a rare breed that has recently been recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) under the Foundation Stock Service purebred category in the U.S. With only around 150 of these dogs in the country, this procedure represents an important step toward preserving and advancing the genetics of this unique breed. Dr. Lexi Grillos, DVM, a theriogenology resident at VMC, played a vital role in the procedure.

A Specialized Approach to Reproductive Medicine

The groundbreaking procedure on the dog named Jazz was led by Marco Countinho da Silva, DVM, PhD, DACT, clinical professor and section head of the Theriogenology service. The team’s success highlights the kind of advanced reproductive medical services that VMC offers to breed preservationists and clients focused on advancing official breeds while ensuring their genetic health.

Owner Cyndi Lear, who is a dedicated preservation breeder and president of the AKC-recognized Kromfohrlander Club of America, brought Jazz to VMC for a series of appointments over the course of about one week. During these appointments, Dr. Grillos and the team utilized progesterone timing and luteinizing hormone (LH) testing to pinpoint Jazz’s ideal fertile window.

Once the optimal window was determined, the VMC team performed the TCI procedure. This procedure involves delivering sperm through a catheter via a scope directly into the uterus, a technique that enhances pregnancy rates. Dr. Grillos noted, “This procedure is painless, takes approximately 30 minutes, and does not require general anesthesia, making it a quick and effective option for increasing the likelihood of a successful pregnancy.”

Expanding Genetic Diversity with Frozen Semen from Sweden

The frozen semen used for Jazz’s insemination was shipped from Sweden, contributing to the genetic diversity of the Kromfohrlander breed. Dr. Grillos emphasized, “Obtaining semen from outside the United States helps to diversify the breed’s genetics, which is essential for the long-term health and vitality of the breed.”

A Thriving Outcome: Seven Healthy Puppies

Four weeks following the insemination, a pregnancy test confirmed that Jazz was expecting, and she eventually gave birth to seven healthy puppies. Dr. Grillos expressed her satisfaction with the outcome, saying, “It was a great success. We are thrilled with the results, and Jazz’s healthy litter is a testament to the effectiveness of our procedures.”

Expert Team and Comprehensive Services

The VMC Theriogenology team, led by Dr. Marco Countinho da Silva, DVM, PhD, DACT, includes Dr. Erin Runcan MS, DACT, associate professor; Erin Blevins, RVT, head veterinary technician; and residents Dr. Grillos and Dr. Josh Trumble. Additionally, Dr. Gail McRae, DVM, a residency graduate from Ohio State’s Theriogenology Program, contributed to Jazz’s case.

Cyndi Lear, Jazz’s owner, was impressed with the exceptional care Jazz received. “I chose Ohio State because I wanted the best. The reproductive medicine team here is extremely knowledgeable and professional. I felt confident every step of the way,” Lear said.

Dr. Grillos and the team at VMC are committed to providing comprehensive reproductive services, collaborating closely with referring veterinarians. Dr. Grillos added, “We are more than happy to assist with reproductive cases from start to finish, but we also frequently collaborate with referring veterinarians to ensure the best possible outcomes for our clients and their dogs.”

Comprehensive Reproductive Services Offered by VMC Theriogenology Team

In addition to progesterone testing for ovulation timing, which can be provided the same day, the VMC Theriogenology team offers a wide range of services to support responsible breeding practices. These services include routine breeding management, elective C-sections, ultrasounds, as well as emergency and complex reproductive cases.

Dr. Grillos concludes, “We are passionate about promoting responsible breeding practices and ensuring that both the dogs and their owners receive the highest quality care and support throughout the reproductive process.”