The Kokopelli Difference

Who We Are

Not all veterinary practices that offer assisted reproductive services are created equal.

Kokopelli is the premier theriogenology (reproductive medicine) practice serving Northern California from fully equipped facilities in Sacramento. It’s led by founder Bruce Christensen, DVM, MS, DACT – the region’s only board-certified theriogenologist serving canine and equine breeders and veterinarians – who is respected industry-wide for his deep knowledge and experience.

Canine Reproductive Services-Kokopelli Assisted Reproductive Services

Our practice’s level of expertise gives us:

A proven track record of superior success rates

We work to bring new animals into the world the right way, with good health as our number one priority.

The ability to handle even the most challenging cases

We achieve successful outcomes because of the depth and breadth of our capabilities and our commitment.

As a responsible breeder or veterinarian, it’s important to understand the value that a specialty theriogenology practice like Kokopelli brings to a breeding program. Only board-certified reproduction specialists have the extensive training and deep experience that our veterinarians have.

Animal Reproduction Veterinarians-Kokopelli Assisted Reproductive Services

Delivering Consistently Better Results

For Your Breeding Program

The singular level of expertise we offer is what sets us apart. Think about it–as specialists, we:

have an in-depth understanding of the underlying physiology and pathophysiology of each case we see

remain current with today’s most advanced diagnostic and treatment options and have these resources available right here in our practice

are able to recommend and perform the most appropriate diagnostic tests and provide accurate interpretation of these tests

are equipped to provide leading-edge medical and surgical treatment for even the most complex reproductive and fertility issues

tailor our care to the needs of the individual animal; a one-size-fits-all approach does not fit at Kokopelli

share our knowledge to help you develop and maintain the most professional and reputable breeding program possible

Exotic Species Reproduction Experience

Bruce Christensen, DVM, MS, DACT–the region’s sole board-certified theriogenologist serving canine and equine breeders and veterinarians–is respected industry-wide for his deep knowledge and experience. He’s been bringing that unique knowledge and experience to other areas of the animal world by working closely with wildlife and zoo animals.

An expert on reproduction, Dr. Christensen serves on the Board of Directors for the Association of Zoos & Aquariums Reproduction Management Center. Additionally, he is also a reproduction advisor for the Mexican Gray Wolf Species Survival Plan (SSP) and spends time each year helping this specific species survive and reproduce in captivity with semen freezing and artificial insemination efforts to help supplement the wild population of Mexican Gray Wolves. His unmatched level of expertise, along with the important work he does with wildlife animals, truly sets Dr. Christensen apart in his field.

The wolf seen in this video is one that Dr. Christensen helped create through artificial insemination with frozen/thawed semen: the only successful breeding to date.

Don’t Just Take Our Word For It

See What Our Clients Are Saying

I externed at Kokopelli Reproductive Services in January 2023. I got to do a lot of hands on reproductive work from looking at vaginal cytologies, interpreting progesterone tests for ovulation timing, assisting with TCI, assisting with seminalysis, performing pregnancy ultrasounds and gestation aging to helping resuscitate puppies from c-sections, neonate and puppy exams. I heard my first puppy heart murmur. I got to perform a castration and then an epididymal collection of semen.I got to travel to a large AKC dog show to help with a semen freeze clinic. I loved all of the opportunities to work on more complex cases-medical management of pyometra, infertility, and helping breeders to make informed decisions.

I am currently practicing in NC at a practice that has two boarded theriogenologists. I am still deciding whether to go down that path myself!

Dr. Megan Sweet

I really enjoyed my 2-week externship at Kokopelli. I have always been interested in reproductive medicine, and it was such a bummer to find out how little we get in lectures and in clinics as vet students. So, this externship was even more valuable for me to narrow down my interests. I got to practice cytology readings, help with appointments, and participate in C-Sections regularly. I was even able to go out to horse barns with Dr. Christensen for pregnancy checks. Additionally, the entire staff were caring, knowledgeable and welcoming. Dr. Shelby has to be one of the most patient and fun doctors I have gotten to work with; and Dr. Christensen is so knowledgeable, was always willing to teach and answer questions. Since completing my externship, I have graduated from school and moved to San Diego where I am spending time with family, training my dogs, and studying for the NAVLE. I plan to stay in San Diego and work in general practice in the new year.

Dr. Parisa T’Knachi

I moved to Columbia, MO and currently work at a hybrid emergency/general practice small animal hospital. I loved spending time at Kokopelli and learned a lot about canine reproduction and use that knowledge often. I frequently have clients who come in with pregnant dogs with unknown bred/ovulation dates or to ensure puppies are ready for an emergency c-section or even for intact males with urinary issues. I would highly recommend spending time at Kokopelli to be more prepared for presentations like these in practice.

Dr. Jenica Emerson

Learn More About Kokopelli

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