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Originally Posted by FlDebra  I thought if the placenta came out after each pup I had nothing to worry about either. I even had the vet's office on the phone and explained what I saw because I had to help the last puppy out a little. They too thought the last placenta came out. But, unfortunately there was at least part of one left inside and an infection started. She went from acting a little funny with pink gums to completely toxic in a day. The vet tried to save her, but she did not make it. I always think if I had gone ahead and had the vet give the shot regardless of what we thought had come out, she might not have got the infection. He said he thought she had a torn uterus too but he was guessing. I did not opt for the autopsy. If I ever get the courage to breed again, I will always take the dam in for the shot after birth. It is just one more thing that can take away a risk factor. Breeding our little ones is a risky business and anything we can do to cut down that risk, seems like the thing to do! |
Of course one should worry. Shoot...I worry from the time of the breeding until the pups are safely in their new homes. And then I worry some more.
Your vet was more then likely right about the rupture. I have past experience with both retained placenta's, and a uterine rupture. To go that toxic (enough to cause death) in 24 hours from a piece of retained placenta is not common. In fact...most vet's commonly tell breeders to bring the bitch in the next day if you lost count of the placenta's for a clean out shot. There is usually no rush as it is not considered an emergency. However, a rupture can and will cause infection, shock and death if not treated very quickly. It is an emergency with a capital E. The problem is knowing the symptoms of a tear quick enough to save the bitch. I was very lucky in that regard. I'm so, so sorry you lost your girl.