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What is the difference between a Fetal Doppler and an Ultrasound Machine?
There appears to be some confusion surrounding the perceived differences between the ultrasound machines (sonogram machines) used to obtain an image and fetal heartbeat monitors which allow you to listen to heartbeats.
Although both technologies use sound waves to obtain information, the waves from an ultrasound machine are much, much higher (over 40 times higher) than that of a fetal heartbeat monitor. Also, the frequency and variation of probe use (between 5-10 mhz probes) and output levels (up to 740 watts) require that only a trained ultrasound technician perform an ultrasound. A fetal heartbeat monitor only has one probe (3 mhz) and one output level (less than 20 watts) so it can be easily and safely used by anyone.
Also, a fetal doppler is not the same thing as a blood flow doppler (used to check for abnormalities in the umbilical cord). Ultrasound machines used to obtain pictures along with fetal doppler umbilical cord testing are medical procedures that should only be performed by a licensed technician. Fetal heartbeat monitors have been used for well over 50 years and are approved for use at home.
How early can your dopplers detect the heartbeat?
Our dopplers are the same medical grade dopplers used by medical professionals and the 3Mhz dopplers are able to detect a fetal heart rate as early as 32 days. This differs from breed to breed with the average being 35-37 days.
Litter size detection can be achieved between approximately 55 days gestation with both the 3Mhz and 2 Mhz doppler. Since the main reason for litter size detection is to get a good idea of when your dam is finished whelping, the further along you attempt litter size detection the more accurate of a count you will achieve. The doppler can be used after the dam appear to be finished whelping to check her for any more heartbeats.
I have run out of gel what should I use?
You may either purchase more from us here or your local medical supplies store should be able to help you. Aloe vera gel works well, is gentle enough for your skin and wont damage the probe.
What is the difference between a 3 Mhz and a 2 Mhz probe?
A 3 Mhz probe has a wider beam so it is more sensitive than a 2 Mhz probe and can pick up dogs / cats heartbeat as early as 5-7 weeks gestation. A 2Mhz probe may not pick up the high paced fetal heart beat in the early stages but works well for litter size detection towards the end of pregnancy (around 55 days gestation). 3 Mhz probe work better early on and throughout the rest of your pets pregnancy.
What do your dopplers come with?
All of our dopplers come with digital display with which you are able to see hear the puppies / kittens rate (the number of beats per minute). Our dopplers come complete with an information pamphlet, convenient carrying case, and one bottle of gel.
What is considered normal for a fetal heart rate?
A normal fetal heart rate is usually between 170 and 210 beats per minute and vary according to fetal age and activity level at the time. Smaller breeds tend to have a higher heart rate.
How much gel should I use?
You need to use about a quarter sized blob at first, do not rub it into the skin but rather place the probe directly on top of the gel. The gel acts as a transducing agent and will help to give you an accurate heart rate display and good clear sound
Do I need to clip the abdominal hair of my animal?
For litter size detection, most likely. The doppler works best when being applied to skin. The more hair there is, the more static you will hear and will not pick up an acurate read out or have proper sound quality. Try it out on her before clipping to see if it can be avoided.
For confirmation of pregnancy, if your animal does not have a lot of fur on her abdomen it may not be necessary to shave. Test it first to hear the sound and readout quality.
If you are listening to your dogs / cats heartbeat the probe will be able to pick up the heart beat without shaving.
What is a normal Tempeature for my dog / cat
A normal body temperature for a canine is between 100.5 and 102.5 Fahrenheit
A normal body temperature for a feline is between 100 and 103 Fahrenheit
What is a normal Heart rate for my cat / dog
A normal Heart Rate for a canine is 60-160 with larger breeds on the lower scale.
A normal Heart Rate for a feline is 110-160.
Puppies ad kittens up to 1 year of age will have a higher heart rate
Puppies - average up to 180
Kittens - average up to 200
Heart Rate also varies with activity and environment.
What is your RETURN POLICY?
Return Policy
You may return an item for refund or replacement within 14 days of reciept of shipment. Shipping and handling charges are non-refundable. All returns must be accompanied by the packing slip. When you wish to return an item, send us an e-mail using the 'contact us' section of this website or call us toll free at 1-877-727-3331. We will then send you instructions on returning your purchase. Please indicate the reason for the return.
You may want to insure your return; we cannot be responsible for lost or misdirected returns. If you paid for your order by credit card, a credit will be issued and will appear on your billing statement.
If you have any questions regarding your order, please feel free to contact us at:
1-877-727-3331
The Healthy Whelp Dopplers have a 1 year warranty against defects.
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