A c-section is one of the major surgeries your canine will have in her life. It’s done to deliver puppies in certain situations when the normal delivery isn’t possible for a breed or due to an emergency.
In either case, a c-section is a serious surgical operation and has many risks associated with it. So, as a responsible dog owner, you must know how many c-sections a dog can have?
First of all, you must know that a c-section is done in emergency conditions only. The number of c-sections dogs can have, depends upon their condition. According to some vets, dogs can have c-sections often if they are physically well or have some complications in normal delivery.
To know the perspective of experts on how many c-sections a dog can have, read this thread.
What Is A Safe Number Of C-Sections For A Dog?
Dr. Croom says:
“Realistically, there is no limit on the number of C-sections a dam could have in her lifetime. As a matter of fact, as with any surgery, going back into the body cavity allows the veterinary surgeon to use those same surgical scars as landmarks, thus decreasing the amount of new damage. The question here is whether there is any inhumane activity surrounding numerous, or back-to-back pregnancies by a dam.”
On the contrary, many responsible breeders don’t agree that a dog can have unlimited c-sections. They believe that the safe number of c-sections in a dog’s lifetime is two to three times. It’s crucial for the good health status of the mother and the puppies.
However, you should always get your dog checked by the vet to know the safe number of c-sections your dog can have.
When Is A C-Section Delivery Required?
As a caring dog owner, you’ll surely not want your dog to go through pain when she can have a normal delivery. But there are some cases when a c-section becomes necessary. The most common reasons when c-section delivery is required are:
1. Sometimes c-section is due to personal preference. For example, dog breeders usually prefer c-section over normal delivery. When a c-section is a personal preference, it’s known as an elective C-section.
2. Some dog breeds are not capable of natural vaginal delivery, and for them, a c-section is required to avoid complications. For these breeds, a normal delivery can even cause death. These include:
• Pekingese
• Boston Terrier
• French Bulldog
• Bulldog
• Mastiff
• Scottish Terrier
• Dandie Dinmont Terrier
• Clumber Spaniel
• Miniature Bull Terrier
• German Wirehaired
3. Apart from the reasons mentioned earlier, sometimes c-sections become a requirement due to an emergency. If it’s not done, the mother and puppies’ life is at risk. Common emergencies include dystocia, blocked head, breech births, hemorrhages, uterine inertia, fetal distress, and intrauterine fetal death.
How Much Do C-Sections Cost In Dogs?
The cost of a c-section in dogs varies significantly. The final price is affected by a lot of factors, including dog’s:
• Age
• Physical condition
• Weight
• Time and place of procedure
• Number of puppies
Generally, you can expect any figure between $500 to $2000. However, you’ll also see cases when the c-section cost will be even $350 to $400 or $5000.
The clinic and vet you choose for your dog’s c-sections also affect the price significantly. Some clinics and vets are expensive, so you’ll have to pay more. Alternatively, you can also find some clinics that ensure your dog’s safety, charging a lower fee.
The best practice to keep the c-section costs in the budget is to communicate them beforehand with your vet. So, you can look for other options if you feel you can’t afford a particular vet’s fee.
What Are The Risks And Complications Associated With C-Sections In Dogs?
Although a c-section is an age-old procedure, some risks are still associated, and some complications may arise. It’s crucial to discuss them before the procedure with your veterinarian. Here are some risks and complications often associated with c-sections in dogs:
• Your dog can have an adverse reaction to the anesthesia or other medications given during the surgery.
• There is a risk of blot clots, bleeding, wound infections, and damage to the uterus during the procedure.
• If your dog has already suffered from dystocia in the past, then there is a high risk of it during c-sections. Moreover, the dog is also at risk of uterine inertia.
• It’s a serious complication if the incision scars tear open, which happens in some cases.
• During the procedure, the puppies are at risk of getting injured. Other risks to puppies include breathing difficulties, placental ruptures, fetal putrefaction, fetal absorption, and malnutrition.
What Is The Recovery Time For C-Sections In Dogs?
After surgery, the dog requires two to six hours to recover from anesthesia. The recovery time varies from dog to dog based on her complications during the procedure. Dr. Croom explains the recovery time for c-sections in dogs:
“How long it takes for a dog to recover physically from a C-section depends on her health and immunity. Another factor is the toll her body may have taken from the 63 days of being a puppy assembly factory.”
The aftercare measures can speed up the recovery process. Ask your vet the best and effective ways you can care for your dog and her puppies after c-sections.
Summary
Finding an answer to how many c-sections a dog can have, is important if you don’t want to risk your dog’s life. According to experts, dogs can have unlimited c-sections if they have no medical complications, which can put their lives in danger.
Most dog breeders believe that the safe number of c-sections in dogs is two to three times to be on the safe side. Although the process is complicated and painful, sometimes it becomes unavoidable.
In addition to the personal preference of dog owners, some medical complications also make c-sections a requirement. Before a c-section in your dog, you must first discuss the costs with your vet. Moreover, ask him about the associated complications and risks.
The more detailed will be your discussion session with your vet, the better will be the health of your dog before and after c-sections.