Stage One ~ Pre Labour
What is it? Stage one also known as pre labour is generally characterised by anxiety, restlessness and nesting behaviours. This stage of labour can last anywhere from 6 – 12hrs before stage two or active labour begins.
What should I look for? When your dog is going into labour the signs you may notice are panting, pacing, refusal of food and nesting.
What should I do? At this stage you should monitor your dog for signs of vaginal discharge which is usually a sign that active labour is about to start, create a comfy bed for your dog to start nesting (be aware that the pre labour discharge does have the potential to stain clothing or fabrics).
Stage Two ~ Labour
What is it? Stage two of labour is when the dog starts to deliver the puppies.
What Should I look for? At this point you should be able to identify contractions, this is seen as the dog will tend to start straining similar to if the dog was having bowel movements. It is important to note that the first puppy should ideally be delivered within the first 2 hours of contraction starting and then 2-4 hours bwteen each puppy being delivered, however do not panic if puppies are born straight after one another as this is also normal.
Stage Three ~ Post Labour
What is it? Stage three of labour is when the placentas are delivered, this generally occurs 5-20 minutes after the delivery of a puppy. It is normal for multiple placentas to be delivered together if a dog has gone through rapid delivery of the puppies.
What should I look for? It is important to take note of the amount of puppies that are born as there will be an equal amount of placentas, in general terms, the mother may give birth to a single puppy and then the placenta or she may birth multiple puppies and then multple placentas. Either scenario is considered normal, as long as once she is finished labour she has birthed an equal amount of puppies to placentas.
When to call the vet
When should I make the call? If you know there are additional puppies to be born and the period between the last and next puppy is greater than 4 hours, veterinary assistance is advisable.
It is also important that if you notice that an unequal amount of placentas has been delivered to the amount of puppies that one of the placentas may have been retained. It is important that this is removed as if it lays dormant to long in the dog it can cause them to become quite ill. If you have any concerns when your dog is in labour please do not hesitate to call us on (07) 4987 6800.
For more information refer to our website at https://www.maraboonvet.com.au/caesareans-after-care