Draminski Ovulation Detector FAQ

Draminski Ovulation Detector FAQ

Where was this product developed?

It was developed in Poland and has been successfully sold there for over ten years. The first was the Estrous Detector for cattle. After the success in that field, other versions were developed for mares, sows, ewes and dogs. The Ovulation Detector for dogs has been successfully sold to many European countries as well as in USA and Japan. This electronic detector has given favorable results in tests at the Obstetrics Department of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Agriculture and Technology, Olsztyn, Poland. The advantages of using the detector have also been confirmed by research carried out at the University in Giessen, Germany.

Is it difficult to use the detector?

The detector is very simple to use. If it is used according to instructions manual it will give excellent results. Keeping the detector clean and disinfected is of the utmost importance. It should be disinfected BEFORE and AFTER each use. Any mucus left on the probe will give false results.

How should the readings be taken?

The readings should be done once a day when the estrous is approaching and twice a day when values start to increase. Readings should always be taken the same way, it is best if the probe reaches the cervix, then you meet resistance and can be sure that the probe is always inserted the same every time. Otherwise you can insert the probe and take readings in different parts of the vagina and receive random, incorrect results. We also advise to always take the readings the same time of the day, better in the morning. There are several factors which may affect the readings otherwise, but errors can be avoided by taking readings at the same time every day.

What should I do if the results differ from those in the Manual?

The readings do not need to be exactly the same as in the chart. Each dog may show slightly different readings. But it is important to find the moment of maximum peak and the subsequent fall. If reading values start decreasing ovulation is imminent. The best moment for insemination is when the readings fall close to the initial level.

Is there any way to check the instrument?

a) When you press the switch in open air "0 1" should be displayed.

b) Prepare water-saline solutions with different salt concentrations, immerse the probe in these solutions and check whether the instrument responds to the changes in the concentration of salt. After the probe has been taken out of the solution the result should be constantly showed in the display and should not disappear before 30 seconds (the switch must be held, of course).

c) Check the instrument with 0,05 more KCL solution in 20°C. The instrument should display about 210-220 d). Make sure while checking the instrument that the electrodes (at the end of the probe) are clean and no "LO BAT" is displayed.

I receive very high results, is the detector working OK?

Dirt, or skin oil on the electrodes will result in readings too high, whereas urine on the electrodes or solutions containing salt will cause lower readings. Please clean the electrodes and check if the device is working well, by following instructions explained above.

How should I clean the device?

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, feces, 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 manufacturer, as if not used properly they may cause irritation of the vaginal lining. Wiping the probe clean before use will prevent this from happening. Alcohol can be used.

What can I do if there is something wrong with my device?

Please check the device as described in the question: Is there any way to check the instrument? If it is not working as expected contact us.

How does it work, by measuring temperature?

No. It measures electrical resistance of the vaginal mucus located near the cervix.

How accurate is it?

It is very accurate and consistent when operated correctly.

Can it hurt my bitch?

Not unless you are very heavy handed and do not take obvious care. Compare the size of the probe (length and diameter) to the penis of the dog (even in toy breeds).

I can only get the probe in about 1"

Usually this is because the angle of insertion is incorrect. Mimic the angle of entry of the stud dog as he enters from underneath at approximately 45 degrees and then 'levels off'. Remember that the vaginal passage has a kink in its shape. (Thus you need to enter at approximately 45 degrees and then level off as well).
Sometimes early on in the season, a few bitches may be somewhat dry. Moisten the probe with water, part the lips of the vulva and gently push the probe into the vulva. If the bitch constricts, hold the unit in place and do not push anymore until she relaxes, at which time you can resume gentle pressure, the probe will slip into the passage easily. Do not use a lubricant such as KY jelly or Vaseline as they will adversely affect the readings obtained!

How does one know when the probe is in the right place?

The probe should be inserted until a slight resistance is felt, which is when the probe just reaches the cervix. This is approximately 3/5ths of the probe's length. ( 3 inches in the bitch and 2 inches out showing). At this position the probe tip is positioned within the area containing the maximum amount of mucus to thus obtain accurate and consistent readings. This position is adjusted slightly relative to the size of the bitch. Also some bitches are very dilated early in the cycle with little or no resistance being felt. However the 3/5ths positioning still applies.

How often do readings need to be taken?

As explained before it is best to take readings daily at the same time of the day. When the figures start to rise, it is wise to take 2, 3 or 4 readings a day to more accurately pinpoint the peak number and thereby determine the best time to breed.

When should I start taking the readings?

Take regular readings from the very first moment that you notice your bitch coming into season.

How long should the probe be left in for?

After the reading stabilize on the detector LCD (takes approximately 2 seconds) the probe may be taken out of the bitch.

All the readings are low (will not get above 150 or 200) why?

Usually it is because the probe is not inserted far enough into the bitch and does not reach the actual mucus which is what the unit is looking to measure. Also salt from the urine can depress the readings.

I get random high readings, why?

Usually it is because the probe is inserted too far. (the whole length of the probe is inserted up to the body of the instrument). Thus going past the cervix and producing random high readings.

How can I tell the false peak from the real peak?

The false peak can be just a small rise and fall or the rise can be quite significant. Regardless of the value though, it only occurs around day 3/4/5 of the season.

My bitch still has a red discharge, but the unit tells me to breed.

Trust the unit. It is indicating what is really happening with your bitch as opposed to the external signs shown by the bitch.

What is the probe made of and can it snap?

No. The probe is made of a high quality special polyamide plastic which is very durable.

Do bitches mind the procedure?

All bitches are different, some accept the probe instantly without any problems the first time it is used, some are puzzled and some are uneasy, much in the same way as the reaction of a bitch to a stud dog when mating.

What should the maximum/peak reading be?

Some bitches peak reading may be 400, whereas others may be well in excess of 1000. The key point to remember is that you are looking for the profile as opposed to the actual value of the reading.

My bitch did not peak at 600, I kept waiting and missed her!

The Manual explains that the peak value may be higher or lower than the example shown of a 600 peak figure. (Look for the peak followed by the fall).

When is the best time to breed?

Manufacturers state that the optimum time to breed is 24 hours after the peak.

Can lubricant be used to insert the probe?

Lubricant will adversely affect the value of the readings obtained.

Should I take the battery out when not in use?

No, the battery is only removed and replaced when it is exhausted.

How can you rotate the probe while pressing the button?

You rotate the unit first and after a full rotation ~ THEN the button is pressed.

What happens to the readings once the bitch has ovulated?

The peak figure indicates when the luteinising hormone is released, triggering ovulation to occur. After which time the value of the readings decrease steadily in a relatively short time and finally reach an approximate plateau figure at which they remain.

Can a bitch go through a heat without ovulating?

Yes, bitches can display 'standard expected behavioral signs' but not have what could be considered a 'normal' ovulatory season.

How will I know when the peak is reached?

By taking readings regularly. When the values increase 2, 3 or 4 times a day a maximum peak figure is obtained.

Do different diets cause different readings?

We are currently researching this issue and believe that diet does affect the readings. However, once again it is not the actual value of the readings what is important but the profile that is obtained, to determine the peak figure.

Why do I get a different reading when I push the button again without moving the probe?

Because the electrical potential of the mucus initially tested has been discharged.

How will I know when the battery is low?

The LCD screen on the unit will show the message: LO BAT.

Do I need an assistant to help me take readings?

No, but just as with breeding an assistant is helpful in reassuring and steadying the bitch.

How long does the unit last?

With proper maintenance, it can last a lifetime.

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