The bitch around parturition

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Medicine
• Canine Reproduction
• Endocrinology

Background:

• Parturition presents significant physiological challenges for bitches, including hormonal shifts, whelping, nursing, and uterine involution.
• Effective monitoring of bitch health during this period is vital for early detection of illnesses and dystocia.
• Existing literature offers insights but presents heterogeneous data and varying conclusions on normal parameters and conditions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide an overview of canine parturition endocrinology and methods for predicting whelping time.
• To discuss the stages, mechanisms, and signs of dystocia during parturition.
• To review puerperal health monitoring strategies for bitches.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of published research over the past 50 years.
• Analysis of hormonal and functional changes during pregnancy, parturition, and puerperium.
• Discussion of diagnostic methods like temperature measurement and ultrasound.

Main Results:

• Contradictory data exist regarding hematocrit decline, body temperature fluctuations around parturition, ultrasound interpretation, and puerperium duration.
• Despite unclear thresholds for some parameters, regular monitoring via temperature and ultrasound is important.
• Research findings for parameters used in daily practice are controversial, necessitating awareness for practitioners.

Conclusions:

• Further research is required to resolve discrepancies in data concerning canine parturition and puerperium.
• Consistent monitoring protocols are essential for bitch health management, even with controversial parameters.
• Understanding normal physiological progress and potential deviations is key for successful canine reproduction and neonatal care.