How can you stop a bitches season when it is liable to cause a problem in the kennel. Safely, obviously.

There is an injection you can get that will stop the season. Ask your vet about it. But it doesn't take effect immediately.

I've heard of this. What is the timing of it and how quickly does it work. Does it make any difference if it is the bitch's first season?

It has to be given as soon as possible on Day1, and then again, I think on day 3.

Ask your vet though, its not guaranteed and it has been known to cause problems. I used it once on my bitch and she was fine, but she was 'ard as nails that one!! Most vets would probably want your bitch to have her first season, to make sure everything is running normally.

HTH
Chloe

I would never want to do anything that had been known to cause problems. During the season's cycle when would you stop showing a bitch? and at what point would it be OK to show her again?

Hmmm, I'm not too sure of "the done thing" in showing, but I think its frowned upon as it upsets the dogs... however, I would imagine you might be able to get away witht he first week as most dogs aren't too interested then... but the last two... avoid!!!

I am sure someone else will be able to advise more, perhaps post on the showing board?

HTH
Chloe

Even in the first couple of days it's "frowned on" (especially with a smooth-coated bitch where everyone can see!).

Fair one... I was thinking as I wrote it how I wouldn't like to be a judge going over the dog at that point!! :)

Its not just the judge.I own 2 male dogs and trying to get a dog to concentrate and show when all they want to do is sniff the floor where a bitch in season has been is HARD work.
Regards Archer

Message received and understood, but how do you know when it is safe (for everyone) to start showing the bitch again?

I showed Savannah last year on day 24 of her season - technically finished, but probably still nicely smelly. We gave her a VERY thorough bath the night before and scented her up nice and pretty on the day with a self rinsing shampoo (esp in 'that' area). We then kept a close eye on her and on how other dogs/bitches were reacting toward her and no one seemed to give her any notice. I would have preferred another week, but this was a show we really wanted to do.

Wendy