Danger Signs During Dog Labor That Should Not Be Ignored

Pregnancy and whelping are important moments that many dog owners eagerly anticipate. However, in some cases, natural delivery may not proceed normally. If assistance is not provided promptly, it can be dangerous for both the mother dog and the puppies.

This article explains whelping emergencies and the role of the veterinary team in performing emergency cesarean section (C-section) at Erawan Pet Hospital.

Danger Signs During Labor That Should Not Be Overlooked
In this case, the mother dog was close to delivery and showed the following signs:
- Abdominal pain with repeated straining for a prolonged period
- No puppies delivered despite active labor
- Weakness and exhaustion
These signs indicate dystocia (difficult labor). If prolonged, it may lead to:
- Oxygen deprivation in puppies
- Uterine fatigue, preventing further delivery
- Life-threatening risk for the mother dog

Deciding on Emergency Cesarean Section
When the mother dog arrived at the hospital, the veterinary team performed an immediate evaluation and found:
- Waiting for natural delivery posed high risk
- Emergency surgical intervention was necessary
The decision to perform an emergency C-section is not based solely on whether delivery can occur naturally. It must consider:
- Safety of the mother
- Survival chances of the puppies
- Duration of fetal distress risk

Expertise Required for Emergency C-Section in Dogs
Cesarean section in dogs, especially in urgent situations, requires both experience and medical readiness.
1. Rapid Assessment and Preparation
- Evaluate the condition of the mother and fetuses
- Plan appropriate anesthesia and surgical approach
- Prepare a team to care for puppies immediately after delivery
2. Surgery Focused on Both Mother and Puppies
During surgery, the veterinary team works against time to:
- Reduce oxygen deprivation in puppies
- Minimize blood loss and stress for the mother
- Improve postoperative recovery outcomes
3. Postoperative Care and Close Monitoring
After surgery, the mother dog is not left to rest alone. She is continuously monitored overnight, including:
- Vital signs
- Pain management
- Recovery from anesthesia
- Ability to nurse and care for her puppies
This ensures that both mother and puppies remain safe through the critical period.

What Owners Should Know About Cesarean Section in Dogs
- A C-section is not frightening when performed at the right time.
- Waiting until the mother dog becomes severely exhausted may reduce puppy survival.
- A hospital with a ready team and overnight postoperative care is essential.

Erawan Pet Hospital: Ready for Emergency Whelping Care
We are prepared to provide:
- Assessment of dystocia
- Emergency cesarean section
- Close postoperative care for both mother and puppies
Sometimes, timely and correct decisions are what save the lives of both mother and puppies.