What to do if a dog can't give birth? - briefly
If your dog is unable to deliver her puppies, it's crucial to seek immediate veterinary assistance. Prompt professional care can help address potential complications and ensure the safety of both the mother and the unborn puppies.
What to do if a dog can't give birth? - in detail
If your dog is having difficulty giving birth, it is essential to remain calm and take immediate action to ensure the safety of both the mother and her puppies. Here are the steps you should follow:
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Monitor the Labor Process: Understand that labor in dogs typically lasts between 6 to 12 hours. If your dog has been in active labor for more than 24 hours without any progress, or if she is showing signs of distress such as excessive panting, vomiting, or lethargy, you should contact your veterinarian immediately.
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Contact Your Veterinarian: Inform your vet about the situation. Provide details about how long labor has been ongoing, any visible discharge, and if there are any signs of distress in the mother. The vet can guide you over the phone and may advise you to bring the dog to the clinic for a professional check-up.
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Keep the Mother Comfortable: Ensure that the birthing area is clean, warm, and quiet. Provide soft bedding for the mother to lie on comfortably. Keeping her calm and comfortable can help facilitate the labor process.
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Check for Signs of Obstruction or Distress: Gently examine the vulva to see if there are any signs of obstruction such as a prolapsed uterus or retained placenta. Be cautious not to cause further stress to the mother. If you notice anything unusual, immediately contact your vet.
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Administer Supportive Care: Ensure that the mother is well-hydrated. Offer her small amounts of water frequently, but avoid feeding her solid food as it can cause discomfort and complications during labor.
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Perform CPR if Necessary: In rare cases where the mother becomes unconscious or stops breathing, you may need to perform CPR. Lay the dog on her side and use your fingers to press firmly on her chest, just behind the elbow. Perform 15 compressions followed by two breaths of air into her nostrils. Continue this until the vet arrives or the mother regains consciousness.
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Prepare for Emergency Care: If the situation becomes critical, be prepared to transport your dog to the veterinary clinic immediately. Have a towel ready to wrap around the mother and puppies if necessary. Keep the car warm and quiet during transportation.
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Post-Birth Care: Once the birth is complete, ensure that all the placentas have been expelled. Count the number of placentas to make sure they match the number of puppies born. If any are retained, contact your vet as this can lead to infection. Monitor the mother and puppies closely for signs of distress or illness in the days following the birth.
Remember that prompt veterinary care is crucial if your dog is experiencing difficulty giving birth. Your vet has the necessary training and equipment to handle such situations safely and effectively. Always prioritize the well-being of both the mother and her puppies during this critical time.