EDUCATIONAL POST Understanding Vulval Changes During the Canine Heat Cycle During the canine oestrous cycle, changes in the vulva are driven by hormonal fluctuations — not guesswork, myths, or “rules of thumb”. In pro-oestrus, rising oestrogen causes increased blood flow and fluid retention, resulting in a vulva that appears swollen, smooth, firm, and shiny. Despite the obvious physical changes, the bitch is not yet fertile at this stage. As the cycle progresses into oestrus,

Accurate timing. Better breeding decisions. Fewer mistakes. If you’re breeding dogs, assisting with mating, or working in canine fertility, guesswork has no place in your decision-making. Canine vaginal cytology is one of the most valuable, low-cost diagnostic tools available — when it’s done properly. This course teaches you exactly that. The Canine Vaginal Cytology Course from ProPet Training  is designed to give you real, practical competence, not just theory you’ll forget