Dog C-Section Lichfield
Dog C-Section near Lichfield
Trusted Vets formally Tudor House offers affordable C-sections, either planned or emergency.
Pre-planned and Pre-booked c sections will also be available at a reduced cost when pre-booked in advance.
A caesarean section or c-section is a major surgery performed to remove puppies/kittens from the uterus. Elective or emergency caesarean section is used for preventing or treating Dystocia (Dystocia is the medical term used to diagnose a difficult birthing experience).
Dog C-Section FAQs
CAN C-SECTIONS BE SCHEDULED?
At our practice, we typically schedule C-sections between 58 and 62 days after the first mating to prevent the need for emergency admittance. In most cases, 63 days from ovulation are within 24 hours of the ideal due date. However, without precise progesterone monitoring at the time of breeding, this timing may be off. Early Delivery may also be the case for bitches carrying large litters because of this, we recommend you monitor her the last 48 hours before her surgery to be sure she does not go into labour unattended.
ADVICE FOR WHAT HAPPENS ON THE DAY OF THE C-SECTION?
Please be advised that NO food or drink is to be consumed on the day of the C-Section. Before starting the C-section, one of our vets will first perform a reverse progesterone test to ensure mom is close to natural labour. When you come in for your Caesarean, we recommend bringing the following items:
- Blankets
- Towels
- Basket or box for the puppies
- Hot water bottle or heat pad
WHAT HAPPENS POST SURGERY?
What to expect after your dog’s Caesarean section and how to keep her safe and comfortable when she comes home. Remember: If you have any concerns or questions, contact our emergency clinic or your daytime vet directly. As your dog has had a general anaesthetic and major abdominal surgery, you’ll likely notice that:
- She’s drowsy but can still walk
- She has a wound which may be covered by a light dressing
- She has a bandage on one or more legs, meaning she’s received medications through an intravenous drip (These are normally removed shortly after returning home unless instructed otherwise)
- A small amount of bloody fluid comes from her vagina (which is normal for a pet who’s just given birth)
DO'S/DONT'S AFTER MY DOGS C-SECTION?
WHAT TO DO
- Let her go to the toilet
- Settle her down in a quiet, calm area to help reduce anxiety and stress
- Offer a small meal and ensure access to freshwater
- Check the wound regularly and make sure your pet doesn’t interfere with the area (we’d usually apply protective collars or shirts after surgery, but we don’t always do this because collars/shirts sometimes prevent newborns from feeding properly)
- Give her any medications that the vet has prescribed
- Contact your daytime vet to organise a post-operative check — ideally to take place within 3 days of surgery. External stitches may need to be removed after 10-14 days — the vet will let you know if this is the case
- Make sure your dog gets their rest — this means no running, jumping or playing until an assessment with the vet/vet nurse at her final post-op check
WHAT NOT TO DO
- Don’t leave the mother alone with her newborns until she’s fully awake, can stand on her own and has shown interest in caring for them
- Please contact your emergency clinic or your daytime vets if you see any of the following signs;
- Lethargy
- Vomiting or diarrhoea
- Reduced appetite
- Heavy vaginal bleeding, or smelly/discoloured vaginal discharge
- Pale gums
- Discharge from the wound
- Swelling, redness or pain in the wound
DOES DOG INSURANCE COVER CAESAREAN?
Many pet owners wonder, “Does dog insurance cover caesarean procedures?” The answer depends on the specific policy you have for your canine companion.
Comprehensive dog insurance plans often cover a range of medical procedures, including caesarean sections, which may become necessary in certain birthing situations and complications. However, it’s crucial to carefully review your policy to understand the extent of coverage. Some insurance providers offer maternity or reproductive coverage as part of their standard plans, while others may require you to add it as an optional rider.
WHAT TO DO IF MY DOG IS 65 DAYS PREGNANT AND SHOWING NO SIGNS OF LABOUR?
It’s natural to feel a mix of excitement and concern as your canine companion approaches the 65th day of pregnancy with no visible signs of labour. While the average canine gestation period is around 63 days, individual factors can influence the timing of labour onset. If your dog is displaying no signs of impending labour, it’s important to approach the situation with a calm perspective.
First and foremost, consult with your veterinarian. Professional guidance is invaluable during this critical period. A veterinarian can conduct a thorough examination to assess the well-being of both the mother and the developing puppies. They may utilise diagnostic tools such as ultrasounds to monitor fetal health and provide insights into the potential reasons for the delay.
Maintain a vigilant watch over your pregnant dog’s behaviour and physical condition. Note any changes, no matter how subtle, and communicate these observations with your veterinarian. While some dogs may not exhibit classic signs of labour, such as nesting behaviours or restlessness, any unusual behaviour or physical distress should be promptly reported.
Remember, each pregnancy is unique, and variations in gestation length can occur. However, professional guidance and open communication with your veterinarian will help ensure the health and well-being of your expecting dog and her soon-to-arrive litter. Approach this period with patience, care, and a commitment to the best interests of both your pet and her future offspring.