Repro consideration in dog management

Question 1

Why should rectal temp be measures twice daily in late pregnancy in the bitch?

Answer 1

to detect prepartum hypothermia that precedes parturition by 24-36 hrs (mediated by sudden progesterone drop)

Question 2

What are the signs of a bitch preparing for parturition?

Answer 2

whelping nest (shredding and ripping up bedding)
restlessness
increased mucous discharge and swollen vulva

Question 3

What are the signs of the onset of parturition in bitches

Answer 3

Uterine contractions
increasingly restless
pant and/or shiver
frantic nesting behaviour
refuse food or vomit last meal
allantoid fluid from vulva as foetus ruptures allantochorion