Saturday, 8 May 2010

Signs that whelping is imminent

As mentioned in the earlier post, one of the most reliable indicators is the bitch's body temperature. The temperature will drop from a normal 101.5 F (38.6 C) to less than 100 F (37.7 C), often as low as 98 F (36.6 C).  This happens about 12 to 24 hours prior to Stage 2 labour begins.

Another sure sign that it's all about to kick off is the presence of a green vaginal discharge. It is the result of early uterine placental detachment. This fluid can be intermittently observed until several days or a week after whelping.

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