FAQ
What is the cost of the PZP?
Each 0.5ml dose is $25. Each animal will need 2 initial doses then a dose every 8 to 12 months, depending on the species.
Lyophilized doses are available for international shipments at $30 a dose.
How do I order the PZP?
First read Protocol and call or e-mail Kim with any questions or concerns. Fill out the Order form and e-mail or fax to the Science and Conservation Center.
How is the PZP delivered?
The PZP is shipped frozen using Federal Express next day air. Once the PZP is received please place in the freezer and put the adjuvant into the refrigerator. If the PZP does show up thawed just put it immediately into the freezer. Do not be concerned unless it has been delayed in shipping, then call Kim at (406) 652-9718 or kfrank@sccpzp.org.
What is the shelf life of the PZP?
In a non-frost free freezer the PZP will last for 2 years. In a frost-free freezer do not keep for more than a year. The protein may start to break down.
Why does an adjuvant need to be mixed with the PZP?
Alone the PZP is not a very good antigen so that is why an adjuvant, which stimulates the animal’s immune system, is added. This is why the PZP is emulsified with the Modified Freund’s Complete Adjuvant for the first dose and the Freund’s Incomplete Adjuvant for the second and all subsequent doses. Each 10ml vial of adjuvant costs $20 each and contains enough for 18-20 doses.
Do glass syringes need to be used to mix the PZP?
Yes, a good emulsion needs to be made with the PZP and the adjuvant, to present to the animal’s immune system. If plastic syringes are used they will bind up and cause the syringes to become immoveable. A set of glass syringes can be ordered for the SCC for $35 a set.
Can the PZP be delivered remotely?
Yes, you can deliver the PZP with darts. We recommend the Pneu-dart darts because of the thick viscosity of the PZP/adjuvant emulsion. The needle length will depend on the species.
What records should be kept?
A Data form should be kept on each animal and a copy should be e-mailed, faxed or sent to Kim Frank after the initial series and after each booster dose. The data that is kept provides information to other zoos that are interested in contracepting a particular species. We at the SCC work in collaboration with the Reproductive Management Center and the Wildlife Contraception Center at the St. Louis Zoo.
What should be done if an animal that has received PZP dies?
The Pathology team on the Contraception Advisory Group/ Wildlife Contraception Center would like to receive the uterus and ovaries of the deceased animal along with the WCC Pathology Form found on the Forms page.
This foal is on Assateague Island National Seashore. The NPS has managed the wild horse population with PZP immunocontraception since 1995. Every mare gets to make her genetic contribution……..isn’t this one adorable!