Emergency C-sections can be performed if a dog is in labor, but in some cases, an elective C-section may be recommended if your pooch faces an increased risk of complications. Today, our Springfield vets look at how to tell if your dog needs a C-section.
Your Dog's Pregnancy
Dogs are only pregnant for 63 days, and if your pup requires a C-section, there is only a four-day window when a safe elective C-section can be performed - days 61 - 65 after ovulation (not after breeding).
When puppies are ready to be born naturally they will produce a surge of cortisol which initiates labor in the mother.
What Natural Labor Looks Like & When To Seek Emergency Help
The labor of your dog will be divided into three natural stages. Difficulties can arise at any point along the way, so it is critical to recognize the warning signs of a problem.
Stage 1
- Stage 1 of your dog's labor can last anywhere from 6 to 12 hours and is distinguished by behavioral changes such as shivering, panting, or other visible signs of anxiety. Your dog's labor will progress to stage 2 once the cervix has been dilated. If your dog is still not showing signs of stage 2 labor after 12 hours, contact your veterinarian immediately; an emergency C-section may be required.
Stage 2
- The second stage of your dog's labor is the birth of her puppies. You will be able to see her contract and strain. A puppy should be born within the first 1-2 hours of this stage. If no puppies have arrived after 2 hours, contact your veterinarian or go to the nearest 24-hour animal emergency clinic right away. Your dog might require an emergency C-section. If your dog gives birth normally, she will proceed to stage 3.
Stage 3
- The placenta is delivered during Stage 3 of your dog's labor, which should begin 5-15 minutes after the puppy arrives. At this point, discharge is normal and should be expected.
Repeat
- If all is going well your dog will now go back and forth between Stage 2 and Stage 3 as each of the puppies is born.
The amount of rest time between births varies by dog, but it can last up to 4 hours. If you know there are more puppies, but it has been more than 4 hours since the last one was born, go to your nearest emergency vet for immediate attention. Your dog may require a C-section.
Other Signs That Your Dog Is In Trouble
Below are a few more signs to watch for that may indicate that your dog is having difficulties delivering her puppies and needs emergency veterinary care.
- Your dog is actively pushing for 30-60 minutes without producing a puppy.
- Weak contractions for 2 hours or more without producing a puppy
- Signs of illness include vomiting, fever, pain, and bloody discharge.
If your dog is in labor and displays any of the symptoms above, take her to your vet or emergency vet immediately.
When Elective C-Sections Are Recommended
While many healthy pregnancies in dogs can proceed unaided, in some circumstances an elective C-section may be recommended. Your dog may need a scheduled C-section if:
- There is only one puppy - that may not produce enough cortisol to induce labor in the mother
- Puppies are very large
- Your dog suffers from any underlying health conditions
If your dog needs a C-section, it will most likely be scheduled 63 days after ovulation, which puts the procedure within 24 hours of your dog's ideal due date. Please speak with your veterinarian about the cost of your dog's C-section for a more accurate estimate.
If you're curious as to how many C-sections a dog can have, the general rule of thumb is two to three. This is in order to preserve the mother's quality of life and the quality of life for future puppies.
How To Prepare for Your Dog's C-Section
Leading up to your pup's C-section there are several things you can do to prepare:
- Stop using flea and tick products on your dog 1 week before her C-section
- Apply an Adaptil (DAP) collar 3 days before the scheduled surgery
- Bath your dog a day or two before the surgery so that she is as clean as possible at the time of her C-section
- Do not provide food on the day of the surgery
- Discuss any medications your dog is taking with your veterinarian; they will let you know if you should withhold medicines on the day of surgery.
- Water may be given until you leave for the vet's office
What to Take Along to Your Vet's Office
When it comes time for your dog's C-section, there are a few things you should bring with you, including:
- Your charged cell phone
- Tarp, table cloth, or other easy clean covering for your seats or carpets in the car
- Large crate to keep your dog in
- Blankets and towels
- Heating pad and a way to power it - to keep puppies warm
- Plastic laundry basket, ice chest without the lid, or strong cardboard box to carry puppies home in safely
- A bulb syringe and DeeLee mucus trap should be on hand in case your dog gives birth en route to the vet's office
What to Expect On Surgery Day
Most veterinarians ask that you arrive an hour or two before your scheduled C-section surgery. The following are common procedures preceding a C-section:
- Vaginal examination to check for signs of active labor
- Imaging such as X-rays or ultrasound
- Placement of an IV catheter
- Shaving your dog's abdomen
- Blood tests
- Wrapping tail to keep clean
Once all of the pre-op procedures are completed your dog will be taken to the surgery suite where she will receive anesthesia and the C-section will be performed.
During the C-section surgery itself, the veterinarian will make an incision in the abdomen to access the uterus. The puppies are then carefully removed one by one, ensuring that each is healthy and breathing properly before moving on to the next. The veterinarian will also check for any complications, such as uterine tears or bleeding, and may need to remove the placenta if it does not detach naturally.
After Your Dog's C-Section Surgery
When you arrive home, keep a close eye on your dog and her puppies. Your veterinarian will provide you with specific instructions on how to care for and monitor the puppies and mother, as well as any pain medications prescribed for your dog.
Following your veterinarian's instructions carefully can help you detect any problems early on, before they worsen. If there are any complications following your dog's C-section, contact your veterinarian immediately.
When To Call The Vet
The length of time it takes for your dog to recover from her C-section will depend on her overall health, pregnancy difficulties, and other factors. Most dogs will recover completely within 3 weeks. If your dog shows signs of fever, stops eating, isn't drinking, develops a swollen mammary gland, or shows signs of infection at the incision site it's time for an urgent call to your vet.
Also, contact your veterinarian if the puppies are not nursing well, appear fussy, have dark urine, or are not gaining weight.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.