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A Rectal-Abdominal Palpation Technique for Diagnosing Pregnancy in the Ewe

U. S. Department of Agriculture, Dubois, Idaho 83423 and Ruakura Agricultural Research Centre, Hamilton, New Zealand

Abstract

ULTRASONIC Doppler techniques for pregnancy testing have been compared with a rectal-abdominal palpation technique developed by the author, using a plastic rod. The rectal-abdominal palpation technique proved to be clearly the most rapid and accurate method for diagnosing pregnancy. Pregnancy was detected as early as 43 days post-breeding by this technique and promises virtually 100% accuracy by 65 to 70 days post-breeding. Potentially 200 or more ewes per hour can be examined. This should be a highly practical technique for commercial application.

¹ Animal Science Research Division, Sheep and Fur Animal Research Branch, Agricultural Research Service, U. S. Sheep Experiment Station, Dubois, Idaho.

² Research conducted at and in co-operation with the Ruakura Animal Research Station, Private Bag, Hamilton, New Zealand with the aid of a Fulbright-Hays Grant.

³ The author gratefully acknowledges the assistance and encouragement of Dr. R. A. S. Welch and administrators and staff of the Ruakura Animal Research Station.