Calcium For Dogs In Labor

Pregnant and nursing dogs need increased amounts of calcium.

Calcium for dogs in labor. The diagnosis can be confirmed with laboratory tests measuring the blood calcium levels. If gestation lasts more than 65 days or the health of the dog is declining then you will need to induce labor. It is important to note that puppy foods designed for large breeds are generally not recommended for pregnant and lactating dogs because of their lower calcium phosphorus and energy levels. Even slight decreases in serum calcium can result in inefficacy of muscle contractions that may slow the progress of labor.

This can be dangerous and lead to eclampsia of the uterus milk fever or bad temperament toward her pups. Dogs with eclampsia have less than 7 micrograms of calcium per deciliter of blood. Low blood calcium leads to ineffective contractions and nervousness often resulting in puppy loss. To avoid this give calcium supplements after first pup is born.

In early labor when the female starts nesting or her temperature drops one degree give mom the first dose of calcium. Pregnant and lactating bitches have a much higher metabolic demand associated with growing birthing and feeding puppies so these diets can help ensure. This helps prevent calcium issues in the pregnant dog such as eclampsia or milk fever. Fast absorbing calcium like breeders edge oral cal plus gel used several times during the birthing process helps keep calcium levels up.

Having puppies is one of the most enjoyable parts of owning a dog. Dogs that developed eclampsia need urgent intravenous administration of calcium. The intravenous calcium should be administered slowly carefully and in the right amount usually dogs need 1 milliliter of 10 calcium gluconate per kilo. Fast absorbing calcium like breeders edge oral cal plus is very helpful.

Calcium is an important nutrient and if your dog s diet lacks calcium you will need to either add some calcium rich foods in his diet or a few calcium supplements. Continue to give the calcium after each pup is born and even when she is finished delivering all her pups. It allows the uterine muscle to slide past and shorten resulting in effective uterine contractions. Calcium is a mineral that plays a role in both muscle contraction and in building the frame we stand on.

The pregnant dog will fine tune from the bone. For most dogs labor and delivery are a very smooth process although problems can arise occasionally. If the blood is low in calcium this will be indicative of the direction the treatment will need to go. How to use calcium supplements.

Since she won t be eating a small amount of gel orally is the only choice. Once she s in labor supplementation is okay in fact it is desirable. From growling to down rite injury or death. Calcium to induce labor in dogs g force induced hypoxia in rodents has also induced burst suppression lukatch et al.

If time and resources allow your veterinarian will have the blood sample checked for hormonal levels notably progesterone.