What to do if your dog gives birth? - briefly
If your dog is giving birth, ensure she has a quiet, comfortable space where she feels secure. Monitor her for any signs of distress or complications, such as prolonged labor or excessive bleeding, and contact your veterinarian immediately if you notice any issues.
What to do if your dog gives birth? - in detail
If your dog is about to give birth, it's essential to be prepared and know how to support her through this critical process. Here are some crucial steps to ensure both mother and puppies remain healthy:
Firstly, create a comfortable and quiet whelping area for your dog. Use a large box or crate lined with clean blankets or towels, ensuring it's easy for her to enter and exit. Place the birthing area in a warm, draft-free location where she can feel secure.
As labor begins, monitor her closely but avoid disturbing her. You will notice changes such as increased nesting behavior, panting, and restlessness. When active labor starts, you might see clear or slightly bloody discharge, which is normal. However, if you observe bright red blood or any signs of distress, contact your veterinarian immediately.
Once the first puppy arrives, it's crucial to support the mother. Provide her with clean, warm towels and ensure she has access to fresh water at all times. Observe each puppy as it is born to confirm they are breathing and moving around. If a puppy isn’t breathing, gently rub it with a towel to stimulate respiration.
After delivery, the mother will usually lick her puppies clean and sever the umbilical cord. If she doesn't, use clean scissors or dental floss to carefully cut the cord about one inch from the puppy’s belly. Tie off the cord with a piece of thread or dental floss to prevent bleeding, then dip it in a mild antiseptic solution such as iodine.
Keep track of the number of puppies and ensure none are missing after delivery. If all puppies have been born and there’s no sign of another one coming, but your dog continues to strain, contact your veterinarian right away. This could indicate a problem like retained placenta or a breech birth.
Throughout the birthing process, maintain a clean environment to minimize the risk of infection. Change soiled bedding promptly and keep the area warm but not overheated. After delivery, monitor your dog for signs of postpartum depression or infections such as mastitis, which can occur if her milk ducts become blocked.
In summary, being well-prepared and attentive during your dog's labor will help ensure a smooth birthing process. Always prioritize the health and comfort of both mother and puppies, and don’t hesitate to seek professional veterinary assistance if any concerns arise.