What should I do if my dog has retained its placenta?
If your dog has retained its placenta, it’s important to address the situation as soon as possible. Retained placenta occurs when the placenta fails to be expelled after the birth of the puppies. This can lead to serious health issues, such as infections,
if left untreated.
Symptoms of Retained Placenta:
- Foul-smelling discharge from the birth canal (this could indicate infection)
- Lethargy or weakness in your dog after delivery
- Loss of appetite or vomiting
- Swelling or discomfort around the abdomen
- Fever or an elevated body temperature, which could signal infection
What to Do if Your Dog Has Retained Its Placenta:
1. Contact Your Veterinarian Immediately
Retained placenta is a serious condition that requires veterinary attention. If the placenta is not passed within a few hours after delivery, it can lead to infection and other complications. Your vet will perform an examination to determine if the placenta
is still retained and assess your dog’s overall health.
2. Veterinary Treatment
Depending on the severity, your veterinarian may:
- Administer medications: This could include oxytocin to help the uterus contract and expel the placenta, or antibiotics if an infection is present.
- Manual removal: In some cases, if the placenta does not pass naturally, your vet may need to remove it manually to prevent infection and inflammation.
- Fluid therapy: If your dog is dehydrated or showing signs of infection, intravenous fluids may be required to support her recovery.
3. Monitor for Infection
Retained placenta increases the risk of infection (metritis), which can affect your dog’s health significantly. Keep a close eye on your dog’s behavior, especially looking for signs of fever, foul-smelling discharge, or lethargy. If any of these symptoms
occur, seek immediate veterinary care.
4. Follow-Up Care
After the placenta is passed or removed, your veterinarian may recommend follow-up care to ensure your dog is recovering properly. This could include additional antibiotics to prevent infection or monitoring her for signs of complications, such as uterine
inflammation.
5. Prevent Future Complications
Once the retained placenta is dealt with, make sure your dog is eating a balanced diet, staying hydrated, and receiving proper post-delivery care. In some cases, your vet may recommend a course of action to prevent future reproductive issues, especially
if your dog has had complications during the birthing process.
Why Use PettureX APP?
Dealing with retained placenta or other reproductive health issues in your dog can be stressful, especially when you’re unsure of what to do or if complications arise. That’s where the PettureX APP can be incredibly helpful. Powered by
advanced AI technology, PettureX offers comprehensive, professional pet knowledge right at your fingertips. Whether you’re dealing with post-birth concerns like retained placenta, or other complex pet health issues, PettureX provides
24-hour online consultations to help you get the right answers quickly.
The app is designed to guide you through difficult situations, ensuring you have the best possible care plan for your dog. With PettureX, you can confidently make informed decisions about your pet’s health, knowing that expert advice is available whenever
you need it.
