VMD 513: Pet animal Breeding, Management, Nutrition and Health Care (1+1)

DIFFERENT STAGES OF WHELPING

There are three stages during parturition.

• Stage 1 is usually unnoticed by the owner because the uterine contractions that occurs are not visible externally. During this stage, the cervix relaxes and dilates, and mild contractions begin. The female usually become restless and nervous, and may shiver or even vomit. The stage I lasts approximately 6 to 12 hours.
• Stage 2 is characterized by the strong contraction of labour with eventual expulsion of the fetus.
• Stage 3 begins after expulsion of the fetus and ends with expulsion of the placenta.
• Therefore, bitches that are whelping more than one puppy alternate between stage 2 and 3 for the duration of whelping.