Elective C-Section
Elective C-sections in dogs are surgical procedures to deliver puppies when natural birth is not possible or is a high risk to maternal and/or fetal health. It is often scheduled in advance when potential complications are anticipated during pregnancy. At Newport Harbor Animal Hospital, we have a loving, energetic and cohesive puppy care team that has been trained in neonatal resuscitation and we generally experience excellent survival outcomes. This procedure can be scheduled almost any day of the week, with Dr. Sebzda, her availability permitting.
Reasons for Elective C-sections:
- Breed. Certain breeds, such as brachycephalic (flat-faced) breeds like French and English Bulldogs, and Boston Terriers, are more prone to difficult births due to puppies that are disproportionately large for the mother's pelvis or inability of the mother to maintain enough of an abdominal press.
- Small Litter Size. Situations where normal delivery is highly unlikely such as litters with only 1-2 fetuses
- Anatomy. Previously fractured pelvis or other anatomical abnormality
- Medical History. A dog with a history of difficult labor (dystocia) previous litter or previous C-section may be a candidate for an elective C-section. Especially if an owner has limited access to emergency care overnight.
Timing of an Elective C-section:
Elective C-sections are typically scheduled for the day before the anticipated natural delivery date but can be delivered within a 2-day window of their anticipated due date. The timing is crucial to ensure the puppies are mature enough for birth. Accurate ovulation timing is very important so we know when the start of pregnancy occurs.
Procedure & Recovery:
Preparation. Leading up to the C-section, it is important to follow specific instructions as withholding food on the day of surgery, acquiring proper supplies to weigh puppies and record temperatures when the puppies return home, setting up a whelping area for the bitch to nurse her puppies and starting an appropriate diet for late pregnancy and lactation.
Surgery. The procedure is performed under general anesthesia, involving an incision in both the abdomen and uterus to remove the puppies.
Recovery. Most mother dogs recover from C-sections to be allowed to go home and nurse their puppies within a few hours surgery, with a continued recovery period of 10-14 days for the abdominal incision. Most mothers do NOT have E-collars after this surgery as they still need to clean and interact with their puppies and most do not interfere with the incision.
Post-op care. Close monitoring of both the mother and puppies is essential after the surgery. Pain management and proper nutrition of a nursing dog are considered.
Risks & Benefits:
Benefits. Elective C-sections can prevent dystocia and improve puppy survival rates, particularly in high - risk pregnancies.
Risks. Potential risks include anesthetic complications, bleeding, wound infections, and complications during recovery for both the mother and puppies.
Important Considerations:
It is crucial to consult with Dr. Sebzda to determine if an elective C-section is right for your dog and to discuss the potential risks and benefits.