Postpartum Dog Lochia Not Ceasing: Effective Solutions

Section 1: Causes of Postpartum Lochia Continuation

Postpartum lochia that does not cease can be primarily attributed to several factors, including weak uterine contractions, uterine fatigue, endocrine disorders, local inflammation, or retained placenta.

After giving birth, dogs often experience exhaustion and weakness. Care should be taken according to the following points. Following the birth of puppies, the vulva, posterior body, and breasts can become heavily soiled. Use warm water or a damp cloth to clean and dry these areas, maintaining cleanliness. Replace soiled bedding and ensure warmth. Oxytocin injections can be administered postpartum to contract the uterus, stop bleeding, and stimulate milk production. Continue with antibiotic injections for three consecutive days to prevent postpartum infections. Most puppies will consume the placenta during the birthing process, so the mother dog typically does not eat immediately after giving birth. Offer some warm water and calcium gluconate first, followed by eggs and milk after 5 to 6 hours. This not only helps to alleviate abdominal pressure but also aids in the recovery of energy. Normal feeding can begin after 24 hours.

Section 2: Classification of Lochia

Approximately one week after the lochia begins, the initial stage is characterized by bloody, red discharge, which then lightens to a yellowish color and eventually becomes clear and colorless, signaling the end of the排毒 process. If the lochia does not clear up or has an unpleasant odor, it may indicate pathological changes within the uterus.

Section 3: The Production of Lochia in Dogs

The late stages of labor include the expulsion of the placenta, the excretion of lochia, and the return of the reproductive organs to their original position. Postpartum, the uterine mucosal layer regenerates, and the maternal placental mucosa undergoes a shedding process. The uterine glands exhibit hyperplasia, and the new epithelial layer is absorbed, leading to the atrophy of the mucosal "substance," and lochia is consequently expelled. The formation of lochia is mainly due to the degeneration and shedding of the placenta, the blood flow from the chorionic vessels, and the abundant secretion from the uterine glands. Initially, lochia contains blood, hence its red color, which later turns into a pale yellow, transparent liquid until it stops flowing.

At first, lochia does not contain bacteria, but it may later become home to nonpathogenic bacteria, posing no harm to the mother dog. Typically, there is no significant increase or change in body temperature after birth. However, if the mother is severely dehydrated, lacks calcium, or has a birth canal infection, her body temperature may rise significantly. Lochia usually clears within five days, with a maximum extension of one to two days. If a dog's lochia persists for a long time, does not clear, or has an unpleasant odor, it may indicate a uterine abnormality.

Treatment principles include promoting uterine secretion, contraction, and infection prevention. Newborn puppies should be appropriately isolated, and the mother dog should be administered broadspectrum antibiotics and oxytocin, along with adequate nutrition to boost her immune resistance.

Section 4: Treatment of Postpartum Lochia in Dogs

Postpartum care for dogs is crucial, encompassing hygiene, diet, and disease prevention. Parents should pay special attention and not overlook these aspects. Since dogs are weak after giving birth and prone to infections, extra care should be taken during cleaning and disinfection.

Pet Doctor's Tip: For more information on postpartum care for dogs, click here to read "What to Do If Your Dog's Urination is Dribbling After Giving Birth."