Efecto de la aplicación de análagos de gnrh para la inmunocastración de perros adultos enteros en la ciudad de Machala.

Abstract

This study evaluated the effectiveness of immunocastration by applying a gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) analogue in intact male dogs from the city of Machala. This immunocastration method seeks to offer a less invasive alternative compared to traditional surgical castration. The main objective was to analyze the impact of this treatment on testosterone levels and testicular size of the animals. The research was carried out over 60 days, during which testosterone levels and testicular dimensions were measured on several specific occasions. The results showed a significant decrease in testosterone levels in all treated dogs, reaching values below 0.2 ng/ml, similar to those observed in physically castrated dogs. In addition, an average reduction of 7.36% in testicular size in width and 5.61% in length was observed, indicating possible testicular atrophy induced by the treatment. Furthermore, variability in treatment response was observed between subjects, suggesting that individual factors such as age, general health, and genetic differences may influence the efficacy of immunocastration. These results highlight the potential of immunocastration with GnRH analogues as a viable option for reproductive control in dogs, with additional benefits in behavioural management. Therefore, immunocastration is established as a promising and less invasive alternative to surgical castration, although long-term follow-up is necessary to fully understand the sustained effects of this treatment and its feasibility in different clinical and population contexts.