What to do if a dog doesn’t bite through the umbilical cord? - briefly
If a dog does not bite through the umbilical cord during birth, it is crucial to intervene promptly. Gently clamp and cut the cord approximately one inch from the body using clean scissors or a sterile blade, then tie off the remaining portion with string or dental floss to prevent bleeding.
What to do if a dog doesn’t bite through the umbilical cord? - in detail
If a dog does not sever the umbilical cord during birth, it is crucial for the owner or caregiver to intervene promptly and appropriately. Here is a step-by-step guide to ensure the safety of both the mother and the puppies:
First, remain calm and composed throughout the process. Panic can escalate the situation and potentially harm the animals. It is also important to have clean hands and necessary equipment ready beforehand, such as sterile scissors or a scalpel, and iodine or another antiseptic solution for cleaning the cord.
Begin by gently lifting the puppy away from the mother while supporting its body with one hand. This will provide clear access to the umbilical cord. Use your other hand to locate the cord where it meets the mother's abdomen. If the cord is not clearly visible, you may need to use a flashlight for better visibility.
Once you have located the cord, carefully grasp it with your fingers and apply steady pressure. The goal is to find the section of the cord that is still attached to the placenta inside the mother. This part will be thicker and more resistant to breaking than the thinner sections closer to the puppy.
Using sterile scissors or a scalpel, cut the cord at an angle approximately 1-2 inches from where it meets the placenta. Avoid cutting too close to the puppy's body to prevent any potential injury. Make sure the cut is clean and precise to minimize bleeding.
After severing the cord, apply gentle pressure to the area using a clean cloth or gauze. This will help stop any residual bleeding from the mother. If necessary, you can also use hemostatic clamps designed for veterinary use to control bleeding more effectively.
Once the bleeding has stopped, dip a cotton swab into an antiseptic solution such as iodine and gently clean the cord stump on both the puppy's end and the mother's end. This step is crucial to prevent infection and ensure the health of both animals.
Finally, place the puppy back near the mother and allow her to lick and clean the area around the cord stump. This natural process helps dry out the cord and promotes healing. Keep a close eye on both the mother and the puppies for any signs of distress or infection in the following hours and days.
If at any point during this process you feel uncertain or uncomfortable, it is advisable to contact a veterinarian immediately. They can provide professional guidance and assistance to ensure the well-being of the animals involved.