Haematology and biochemistry in healthy llamas at sea level.

In the last years, there has been an increasing interest in llamas, not only as part of a productive system, but mostly as companion animals. Most reports regarding clinical biochemistry and haematology include few llamas and details about their health status are not available. The present study aims to provide haematological and biochemical parameters for llamas of known health status.

Effect of hCG administration on Day 7 post-mating on accessory corpus luteum development and progesterone concentration in llamas.

A high embryo loss rate has been reported in llamas. As strategies that lead to an increase in plasma progesterone (P4) concentration might improve fertility, the aim of the present study was to evaluate if the administration of hCG on Day 7 post-mating is useful to develop an accessory corpus luteum (CL), increasing plasma P4 concentration. Twenty (n = 20) female llamas, ranging between 5 and 10 years of age and four (n = 4) males of proven fertility, ranging between 8 and 10 years of age were included in the study.

Uterine and Corpus Luteum Blood Flow Evaluation Prior to Uterine Flushing in Llama Embryo Donors.

The aim of this study was to assess the uterine blood flow (UBF) and corpus luteum blood flow (CLBF) in llamas 8 days post-mating, using color-Doppler ultrasonography (CDU), to determine the possible relationship between vascularization and the presence of an embryo. Adult females ( = 25) were used to monitor ovarian dynamics by palpation and transrectal ultrasonography until detection of a ≥6 mm growing follicle. Females were randomly assigned to one of two groups: Group I ( = 19), were mated and ovulation was induced by a single dose of buserelin (GnRH analog) that same day (Day 0); and Group II ( = 6), only ovulation was induced (control).

Development of a GnRH-PGF Based Synchronization and Superstimulation Protocol for Fixed-Time Mating in Llama Embryo Donors.

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the application of a GnRH-PGF based synchronization and superstimulation protocol for fixed-time natural mating in llama embryo donors. All females ( = 8) received 8 μg IM of GnRH analog (GnRHa; buserelin) on day 0, regardless of follicular status. After eight days, another GnRHa dose was administered followed by 250 μg IM PGF (cloprostenol).

Plasma IGF1 and 17β-Estradiol Concentrations During the Follicular Wave in Llamas.

The aim of this study was to characterize the temporal association between follicular waves and circulating concentrations of 17β-estradiol (E2) and IGF1 in llamas. Follicular waves could be clearly divided in three phases: growth, plateau and regression; with a mean duration of 18.8 ± 0.