Diseases of the mammary gland

Hello, I have a dog that has already given birth, but still giving milk, her tits are swollen and hard, but her puppies are gone, is that normal? - Latin America in the World Planet Earth

Hello, good afternoon, I have a Chihuahua dog that swells her nipples a month if and another does not, and it is the last two from behind and votes milk passes chubby as if she were going to give birth and looking for hidden places and I worry that you recommend - Nixzaliz Huertas

Text: José Enrique Zaldívar

In this month's article I am going to refer to the pathologies that affect the mammary glands, some diseases that are very common in our dogs and that we must know in depth to recognize as soon as the first symptoms occur in order to react as soon as possible before them.

Mastitis is the bacterial infection of the mammary glands, and can occur in one or several, affecting postparturient female dogs. It can also occur in female dogs that breastfeed due to false pregnancy, although rarely. The clinical signs are variable in intensity and include hot, firm, swollen and sore glands. Fever, anorexia and dehydration are common. Puppies of female dogs affected by mastitis may cry because their mothers tend to neglect them. In severe cases, abscesses or glandular gangrene may appear.

The treatment will consist of the supply of antibiotics and fluid therapy when necessary. It must be aggressive so that the dog can assume her maternal behavior in the minimum possible time. It is important that the intake of liquids and solids is adequate to ensure continuous milk production. During lactation, food and liquid needs double with respect to pregnancy. Hot compresses applied to the affected glands several times a day can reduce swelling and pain. Veterinarians, when we choose the antibiotic, we must take into account its effects on the nursing infant.

Normally, in seven days the process is controlled, except in the case of abscesses or gangrene, which should be treated by surgery. Lactation may continue as long as the dog wishes and is able to provide adequate nutrition. It is important to monitor puppies in case they show signs of illness, and their weight gain should be monitored, which should be 10 percent of birth weight per day. If necessary, supplementary feeding or artificial rearing should be carried out.

GALACTOSTASIS
It involves the accumulation and retention of milk within the mammary gland, another cause of the presence of hot, firm, swollen and painful mammary glands. Unlike mastitis, in galactostasis, breast secretions are not infected and the mother is not sick. Milk is simply made at a faster rate than can be stored in the glands comfortably.

GALACTORREA
This condition presents as a lactation that is not associated with pregnancy and childbirth. It is the most common clinical manifestation of false canine pregnancy. It occurs in the phase of the sexual cycle that is known as advanced right handed. It is usually self-limiting and does not need treatment.

NEOPLASIAS OR TUMORS MAMMARIES
They represent almost half of all tumors in female dogs. They are more frequent in older dogs with an average age of ten years. Many of those affected are whole females or patients who were castrated (ovariohysterectomized) in the advanced course of life. Breast tumors are rare in males and young animals of both sexes. Two recent studies on large dog populations have reported information on the incidence.

Breast tumors are usually discrete, firm and nodular masses. They can be located at any point along the breast chain. Its size is very variable, with a diameter that varies from a few millimeters to many centimeters. In more than half of the cases multiple glands are affected. They can adhere to overlapping skin but are usually not fixed to the underlying body wall. The malignant ones, more than the benign ones, tend to attach themselves to the body wall and be covered with ulcerated skin. On many occasions, if we press the nipples of the affected glands, we will see abnormal secretions coming out. Regional lymph nodes (axillary or inguinal) may be enlarged if there were metastases. The rest of the physical examination often lacks particularities of interest. In advanced cancer conditions there may be evidence of tumor cachexia.

The diagnosis of breast cancer is more likely in a female geronte with any kind of nodule in the mammary gland. Excisional biopsy is the method of choice to confirm the diagnosis. Cytological examination of samples obtained by fine needle aspiration often gives ambiguous results. Before performing any excisional biopsy, chest x-rays should be performed to rule out metastases at the pulmonary level. If this is discovered, the severe prognosis is justified, even in the absence of a histopathological confirmation of breast neoplasia. Having made the decision to reach the diagnosis and make the treatment, the overall health of the patient and the tumor burden should be assessed. Malignant mammary tumors often metastasize to regional and pulmonary nodes. Less frequently, liver metastases occur. They can also occur at distant sites, but this rarely happens in the absence of local or pulmonary lymphoglandular involvement. Radiology and careful palpation are extremely useful in these cases. The overall health of the patient should be evaluated by a complete blood count, biochemical profile and urine analysis.

Can dogs eat yogurt?

(Photo via: soyunperro)

Can your dog eat yogurt? Or ... Can't you? The answer to this question is a bit complicated: They can and they can't. Do not worry! We explain it to you.

The first thing to keep in mind is that dogs They CANNOT drink cow's milk. Why? This is because lactose is harmful to your dog, can cause you:

• Diarrhea
• Threw up
• Parasites (worms)
• Allergic reactions

The yogurt luckily, almost no lactose. Further, the bacteria it contains are responsible for facilitating digestion of the little lactose I have. All this makes that it is not harmful for your dog.

But ... eye! This does not mean that all dogs can have yogurt. It is best to make sure that your dog's breed has no intolerance.

Can all dogs eat yogurt? What type?

If you want to give yogurt to your dog this should be: natural, with or without bifidus. Don't even think about giving yogurts with flavors or sugary or with fruit, forbidden!

Of all the yogurts that are sold the best for your dog are the Skimmed yogurts with bifidus.

Benefits of yogurt in dogs

(Photo via: pinterest)

Yogurt is one of the most recommended food supplements. They provide calcium, probiotics, vitamins and bacteria (beneficial) to your pet.

Do you think that is not enough? In addition to this, they help control and maintain the digestive system and the healthy and strong intestinal flora.

If your dog is following a antibiotic treatment, it is possible that these kill the good bacteria of your digestive system. The best option is to add yogurt to your food.

That is to say, If your dog tolerates yogurt well, it is an ideal food supplement!

Symptoms of a pregnant dog

You may have doubts about a possible pregnancy, because not always when there is intercourse fertilization occurs, for that reason, it will be important to learn to recognize the symptoms of pregnancy in a dog. But, How to know if a dog is pregnant? The truth is that during the pregnancy of a dog there are some obvious symptoms that will indicate that the gestation process has begun.

It is important to note that the pregnancy symptoms of a Maltese bichon or the pregnancy symptoms of a Yorkshire terrier dog will be the same, however, the symptoms of a month-old pregnant dog or the symptoms of a pregnant dog about to give birth. They will be different.

The symptoms of a pregnant bitch are:

• Cycle: Generally, bitches usually experience heat twice a year, which usually varies between 4 and 13 months, however, this is not a reliable indicator, since hormonal changes can greatly alter it. It will be highly recommended to pay attention to other symptoms.
• Bulging belly: around 30 days of gestation, our veterinarian, through a physical examination, can perform palpation of the uterus that can confirm the state of pregnancy.
• Nipple Status: This is probably the most obvious symptom of pregnancy, since during pregnancy the dog's nipples increase in size and become more intense in color.
• Vaginal discharge: Changes in the vaginal discharge of the pregnant dog are also frequent. We can observe white or transparent vaginal discharges, never with blood, black or green.
• Behavior: the behavior is an unreliable indicator to confirm the pregnancy of the dog, but it is an aspect that we cannot ignore. It may happen that it is abnormally active or, conversely, much more apathetic. It is usual that he rejects contact with other dogs, especially males, and that his attitude towards us becomes more affectionate or more arisca. There is also the search for the "nest", that is when the dog looks for shady and comfortable places to take refuge and have her litter there.
• Vomiting: around 35 days of gestation, when the rotation and withdrawal of the uterus occurs, the dog may experience certain discomforts that include vomiting.
• Feeding: The feeding is a fundamental aspect in the pregnancy of the dog, but although the majority increase their appetite, some completely reject their habitual feeding. In the care section we will pay close attention to this very important aspect.

If your dog shows some or several of these symptoms, it is probably because she is indeed pregnant and the arrival of the puppies is only a matter of time. However, how can we know if a female dog is pregnant with certainty? We explain it to you below.

How can we confirm a bitch's pregnancy?

Currently there is no "pregnancy test in dogs" that can confirm pregnancy with a urine sample, therefore, to confirm the pregnancy of the dog will be very advisable go to our veterinarian of confidence, who will tell us if you are indeed pregnant or if instead it is a psychological pregnancy.

Performing veterinary tests is not only important for confirming pregnancy, it is also essential for ensure puppies are alive or that the mother enjoys a good state of health. Below we explain different pregnancy tests in the dog that you can perform in a veterinary clinic or hospital:

• Palpation: This test requires some skill and is probably the most economical method. It is important to note that it is not 100% reliable and that it will not reveal any health problems in the mother or in the puppies. It can be done 30 days after riding.
• Blood test: The presence of a hormone called "relaxin" can confirm the pregnancy of the dog after 30 or 35 days of gestation. This test does not reveal the number of puppies, but it can give us information about the health status of the parent.
• Bone scan: X-ray tests can be performed after 45 days of gestation, however, it is recommended to carry it out during the last third of pregnancy, when the risk involved for puppies is minimal. Through an x-ray we can know the number of puppies and possible malformations that they experience.
• Ultrasound: This is the most common and recommended test during the pregnancy of the dog, since it indicates the number of puppies and also confirms that they are alive. It can be done after 25 or 35 days, but if it is not done exhaustively, one of the puppies can be overlooked.

How to know how many weeks of pregnancy my dog ​​has?

Your dog is pregnant but you don't know how many weeks she is? Don't worry, after performing the tests mentioned above the veterinarian may determine roughly in what week of the dog's pregnancy she is. This will help us in providing you with the necessary care at this sensitive stage.

Psychological pregnancy in dogs

Although we have observed all the symptoms mentioned above, it may happen that our veterinarian will surprise us with an unexpected diagnosis: a psychological pregnancy.

Psychological pregnancy in female dogs is a fairly common problem in non-sterilized female dogs and can occur after a failed ride or for no reason. It is mainly due to a hormonal mismatch and it can represent a health problem for our dog, who will experience changes in behavior and milk production, which can lead to a breast infection if not treated properly. In some cases the psychological pregnancy may also require drug prescription and, in the case of being persistent, the veterinarian may come to recommend castration of the dog.

How long is a bitch's pregnancy?

The dog's pregnancy has a approximate duration of 65 days, although it can be variable according to the size, the experience of the parent or other factors, so predicting exactly the time of delivery is a rather complicated task, even for the most experienced veterinarians.

In some cases bitches can end the gestation period between 58 or 63 days, but in other cases it can be delayed until 68 and even 70 days. There are some factors that influence the gestation time, such as litter size. Generally, bitches that expect few puppies usually have the birth before, while those that expect a higher number of puppies tend to lengthen it.

When are puppies noticed?

Around the third week of pregnancy, by palpationOur veterinarian will be able to confirm pregnancy and the presence of embryos in the uterus. Already in the eighth week, we ourselves can perform gentle palpations in the abdomen of our dog, since fetal movements They will be very obvious. Then we can notice the little ones and even feel that they move.

It is important act calmly and perform this procedure only from time to time, to prevent the dog from feeling anxious when being manipulated constantly. It is important to know some of the 10 signs of stress in the dog to warn if we are being too insistent.

Remember that anxiety and stress directly affect the mother and puppies, negatively affecting their health and development. In addition, suffering from very severe conditions during this stage can cause puppies to be born with a predisposition to chronic stress and to suffer from behavioral problems.

The pregnancy of the bitch week by week

Once confirmed the pregnancy of the dog, her state of health and resolved some curiosities, it is time to talk about the pregnancy of the dog week by week. What can we observe in a one month pregnant bitch? What are the most frequent symptoms in each week? How will a 50-day pregnant bitch behave?

Below we show you how it is the development of pregnancy in a dog Week by week, but don't forget that the confirmation of all the mentioned symptoms does not exempt you from going to the vet to ensure that everything is going well and that, indeed, the pregnancy is developing as it should.

Stages of pregnancy of a bitch

Next we will detail in more detail how are the stages of a dog's pregnancy, week by week:

• Fertilization: The intercourse between two dogs is carried out before ovulation and lasts approximately 15 or 25 minutes maximum. During the ride, the male ejaculates up to twice. Afterwards, the dogs stay stuck until the male performs a third sperm ejaculation in the female's vagina. Finally, the decompression of the large bulb occurs and they separate. After intercourse, the dog's semen travels, waiting for the dog to ovulate so that the fertilization of the eggs occurs.
• First week (0-7 days): once the ovules have been fertilized, they begin to divide into a process called "meiosis". During the first week of pregnancy we will not observe any obvious symptoms of pregnancy, since the cells are dividing and pregnancy in the uterus has begun.
• Second week (8-14 days): at this stage the female sex cells continue to divide and, as in the previous week, we will not be able to notice any noticeable change, apart from some unusual behavior changes.
• Third week (15-21 days): by the third week the fertilized and divided ovules are implanted in the uterus of the dog, causing bulges of between 0.8 and 1 cm. These "lumps" will become puppies and, in fact, you could already see small figures. At this time we can go to our veterinarian to perform a blood test and ensure the good health of the parent.
• Fourth week (22-28 days): The embryos are already developing, very slowly, inside the dog. In this week they already measure between 2 and 3 centimeters, being possible to perform abdominal palpation, and some of the symptoms mentioned above are also observed, such as breast enlargement or vaginal discharges. Puppies already have a backbone.
• Fifth week (29-35 days): by the fifth week the embryos have increased their size, which is around 5 centimeters, and they begin to develop much faster. It is time to start paying close attention to feeding and other care of the parent, therefore, we recommend going to the veterinarian to receive some advice and perform the first ultrasound.
• Sixth week (36-42 days): towards the sixth week is when the bone qualification begins to be carried out, allowing an X-ray that indicates the exact number of puppies that are on the way. It is also possible to listen to them through auscultation. The embryos already exceed 6 or 7 centimeters and, because of that, the dog's abdomen is getting bigger and bigger. It is time to prepare our parent's nest and continue paying attention to their care.
• Seventh week (43-49 days): by the seventh week the puppies have already reached the size they will have at the time of delivery and we will observe that the breasts already have milk. It is also possible that the dog begins to decrease food intake. It is highly recommended to do the x-ray this week, as we can more easily anticipate some possible problems of childbirth.
• Eighth week (50-57 days): at this time the conditioning of the nest becomes more important, since the female will begin to shelter there much more constantly. We must ensure an adequate temperature, as well as leave food and water within reach. Fetal movements are evident to the touch and milk will begin to flow naturally. As long as we don't cause unnecessary stress on the dog, we can take a bath to ensure that the time of delivery is as hygienic as possible. However, if we notice nervousness, we will use a dry wash shampoo.
• Ninth week (58-65 days): The time of delivery is approaching and the puppies are fully trained and ready to be born. It is very important to leave space for the dog, since at this time she will begin to hide in the nest and be slightly disturbed. You may experience contractions, involuntary urination, vaginal secretions, tremor and vomiting. It is time to have a 24-hour emergency veterinarian's phone handy, which can be moved at home if necessary, since some birth problems can be very serious and put the life of the dog and the children at risk .

Next we will explain in a general way what are the care in the pregnancies of a bitch, but we will also show you what the delivery is like, what are the most frequent postpartum problems and many other curiosities that you can not miss if your dog is pregnant.

Behavior of a pregnant dog

It is essential to pay attention to the behavior of a pregnant dog, because we must know that stress or anxiety can cause severe developmental effects of the puppies, being able to also condition the character of the dogs in their adult stage. Therefore, knowing how a pregnant dog's behavior will be is key when providing the necessary care and preventing behavioral problems.

We should know that at this stage there is a progressive social isolation, in which the dog will devote more time to being alone in her paridera, especially in the days before the birth. Ideally, try to maintain a normal routine of walks, affection and games, always adapted to your state.

If we observe abundant signs of calm when we interact with her or she rejects contact with us, we will allow it, supervising the dog without intervening. In no case will we generate more stress or anxiety than necessary.

It can also happen that the dog gets to show aggressiveness towards other animals and even towards us, through the growl or the marking. While it is unwanted behavior, we should also know that it is common. In no case will we scold or punish her, but we will try to avoid all those behaviors that can cause a bad reaction. In the most serious cases it is advisable to consult with a ethologist or canine educator specialized in behavior modification, but in no case should we apply guidelines without prior knowledge.

Pregnant bitches need constant attention and care by their tutors, mainly related to food and comfort. It is always advisable go to the vet to guide us during this process, since each pregnancy is unique and each parent may need certain special attention to ensure good health and the proper development of fetuses.

Feeding a pregnant bitch

The feeding of a pregnant dog is a fundamental aspect that guarantees the good state of health of the mother and an optimal development of the fetuses. Do not forget that they feed through the placenta, therefore, follow the advice that we show below to ensure that your pregnant dog enjoys the best quality of life and the necessary care:

Until the fifth or sixth week of pregnancy the dog will not begin to gain weight significantly. At this stage we must feed it as we did before pregnancy, to avoid overweight, which can affect pregnancy very negatively, causing possible problems in childbirth. The dog will continue to enjoy her walks and games like every day. The symptoms of pregnancy will soon arrive.

From the 36 or 42 days gestation it is when we must modify the feeding of the dog, always under veterinary prescription, to a I think for puppies or "puppy"From then on we must increase the feed dose by 5% every week that passes. Remember that you must also feed the puppies inside.

Especially if you observe abnormalities in the dog's feces or some reluctance at mealtime, you can offer cans of wet food, gastrointestinal feed and even bet on homemade diets, as long as you continue to offer the feed for puppies. Stimulating your appetite is essential, as well as hydration, so you should never miss a bowl of fresh, clean water.

In the final phase of pregnancy, the dog has less and less space in her body to house the food. It may be interesting to offer a smaller amount of food but increase the number of shots, replenishing it constantly to continue feeding, however, it is very common for the pregnant dog stop eating in the days before delivery.

Once the pups are born, we will continue feeding the dog with feed for puppies, but depending on your milk production our veterinarian may recommend a special formula or not.

Here are 6 basic tips for feeding a pregnant dog:

1. During the first phase of pregnancy the dog should eat as it did before pregnancy.
2. In the case of nausea, divide your shots into several portions.
3. Consult with your veterinarian the option of offering nutritional supplements in the first phase.
4. Avoid overweight and obesity in pregnant dogs.
5. Do not administer any type of medication to a pregnant dog, consult your veterinarian.
6. Call your veterinarian whenever you notice any unusual symptoms.

Activities, exercise and other care

During the first weeks of pregnancy the dog will continue to maintain a exercise routine and walks totally normal Can a pregnant dog exercise? The answer is yes, but always taking certain precautions. Around the fifth or sixth week we will begin to reduce physical exercise and we will bet on other calmer activities inside the home, while we will continue doing the walks in the usual way.

The bathroom is also an important factor to consider. Can you bathe a pregnant bitch? As we have told you before, it is advisable to do so towards the end of pregnancy, to ensure that the birth is as hygienic as possible during delivery.

And what about the vaccination and deworming routines of a pregnant dog? Not all the products that we find in the market are suitable during the gestation period, however, it is an essential process, since we must ensure that puppies cannot suffer an infestation as soon as they are born. The most advisable thing will be to go to the veterinarian to detail when the time is right and what products we should use.

Affection and emotional care are also essential. Do not forget to spend time with your dog, as long as she allows it, to ensure that her emotional state is positive and stable, which will ensure a good pregnancy development the absence of behavioral problems.

Nest or paridera for dogs

In the market you will find some square-shaped structures called "parideras" whose price can vary between 50 and up to 300 euros. They stand out mainly for having cylinders or plates that prevent crushing puppies and are usually well insulated from the outside.

The paridera must be placed in an isolated room, far from the movement of people or other dogs, but also must be accommodated with a mattress or cushion and some blankets. To avoid dirt we can place a rubber or any other plastic surface on it, especially useful after birth. The paridera must have natural light and a pleasant temperature, as well as be away from air currents or direct sunlight. The dog will begin to want to be in the paridera or "nest" days before delivery.

The birth of a bitch

Childbirth is the most awaited moment of the pregnancy of the dog and probably the one that generates more doubts. If your veterinarian has ruled out any risk and does not need a C-section, your dog can give birth at home, otherwise, when you observe the first symptoms of birth in the dog, you should go to your veterinary clinic urgently.

Childbirth is a complicated time for the dog and you must let herself manage her nervousness and anxiety, avoiding manipulating her or forcing her to do anything she doesn't want. Accompany her gently to the room of the paridera if she has not already gone there. Even if you are not going to intervene, it is important that you stay a safe distance to ensure that everything is going well. Remember to have the vet emergency number in case any complication arises.

Questions and answers

When can I cross my dog? How long does gestation last? Should I feed her in a special way during pregnancy? In this report we give answer to the most frequently asked questions about the heat, pregnancy and delivery of female dogs. Take note of the advice of the collaborating veterinarian of facilisimo.com.

My dog ​​is in heat and I don't know when it is better to mate her.

The optimal fertility time has been established approximately between days 4 and 7 after the LH peak. Several methods can be used to accurately determine the fertile period and the most appropriate time of coverage (vaginal cytology, determination of plasma concentrations of some hormones). At a less technical level, the first days after bleeding are discussed as the optimum for coverage. Check with your veterinarian.

What is the way to make a pregnancy diagnosis? How do you know if a dog is pregnant?

Physical changes: a thin vulvar discharge is usually seen in pregnant dogs a month after mating, the nipples begin to turn pink and erect. From day 35 we will see a considerable increase in your body weight. Abdominal palpation: the optimal time to do so is 1 month after riding (90% reliability). X-rays: it is not reliable until day 45, but, before we can observe some radiological changes. Ecografías: el momento ideal para realizarlo es de un mes tras la última monta. Test endocrinos. Te aconsejaríamos que visitaras a tu veterinario para que haga todas las pruebas necesarias para confirmar el diagnóstico.

¿Cómo se cuál es el dia preciso para aparearse? Mi perra está en celo, tengo un perro macho y han estado juntos tres días, pero lo raro es que desde el tercer día, le introduce el miembro y lo saca enseguida, ¿por qué ocurre eso? Me han dicho que desde el momento que deja de sangrar la perra pueden aparearse.

Efectivamente, lo que tu crees es cierto, normalmente ocurre así, pero cuando no es, se deben hacer algunas pruebas médicas, como puede ser medir niveles hormonales y hacer frotis vaginales para observarlos al microscópio. De todas formas no siempre la causa tiene que estar en la hembra, puede también ser el macho. En el caso concreto que describes, dices que hay penetración, pero enseguida se baja el macho, con lo que es fácil pensar o que el macho se inexperto, que tenga dolor al penetrar o alguna otra disfunción. Creo que deberías consultar un veterinario, que valore a quién revisar.

¿Cuánto tiempo dura el embarazo, o gestación, de una perra?

La duración media de la gestación en la perra es de 63 días, con una variación de 56-72 días si se calcula desde el día de la primera monta.

¿Qué alimentación debo darle a mi perra mientras esté preñada? ¿Hay que darle el mismo pienso de siempre?

Si está gestante dale un pienso de gama alta o incluso uno de cachorro junto con suplementos de calcio y hierro.

¿Qué puedo darle a mi perrita para que ya no tenga más cachorros? Me gustaría que fuera algo que no le hiciera ningún tipo de daño.

Puedes consultar con tu veterinario las distintas opciones. Si no quieres hacerle una ovariohisterectomía o una ligadura de trompas (la mejor opción si estás segura de que no quieres que vuelva a criar), puedes recurrir a un fármaco inyectable que nos evita los celos, pero, cualquier producto de estas características no es recomendable usarlo durante mucho tiempo. Comentalo con tu veterinario, él te aconsejará.

Tengo una perrita de seis años y me gustaría saber si es conveniente cruzarla o ya no. En caso negativo, ¿cuál es el paso siguiente que debo tomar?

No es necesario que tu perra críe. Dependiendo de su raza, con seis años puede ser bastante mayor. Como el hecho de criar no representa ninguna ventaja para ella, puedes evitarlo perfectamente. Lo ideal es practicar una Ovariohisterectomia. Deberías consultar con tu veterinario sobre las distintas alternativas que tienes y que te aconseje lo mejor en tu caso.

Mi perrita está a punto de tener sus cachorros y quisiera saber si es necesario darle un complemento vitamínico, ya que a veces no quiere comer.

Durante una gestación siempre es necesario complementar la dieta de la hembra con Hierro y Calcio y, si fuera necesario, un aporte vitamínico. Acude a tu veterinario para que te aconseje sobre ello y puedas empezar a darle el tratamiento.

¿Es verdad que si a las perras no se les cruza a una cierta edad mueren de tumores?

No es cierto que las perras mueran de tumors si no se las cruzan, es totalmente falso. No existe relación alguna entre cruzar a una hembra y la posibilidad de que desarrolle tumores. Sí existe una relación bien estudiada entre la reducción de la incidencia de tumores de mama con la ovariohisterectomia temprana de nuestra perra, cuanto antes la ovariohisterectomizemos menos posibilidades de padecer un tumor de mama (lo mejor sería después del primer celo o poco antes de éste).

¿Qué preparado les puedo dar a los perritos recién nacidos, ya que la madre no les abastece?

Lo mejor para los cachorros es la leche materna, si tu perra ha tenido muchos y no tiene suficiente leche para todos puedes intentar suplementar su alimentación con leche para cachorros de venta en tiendas de animales y clínicas veterinarias. A partir de las 4 semanas puedes prepararles papillas de cachorro y a las 6 semanas ya podrán comer pienso remojado con agua o con leche descremada.

Quisiera esterilizar a mi perrita, pero. ¿es verdad que su conducta cambia negativamente si nunca han tenido cría?, ¿una perra esterilizada entra en celo?, ¿a qué edad es más conveniente esterilizarla?

La conducta de una perra no cambia en función de si cría o no. No está demostrado que la gestación sea beneficioso para el comportamiento de nuestro animal, por el contrario, sí está demostrado que cuanto antes se ovariohisterectomiza a una perra menor es la incidencia de cáncer de mama ( la perra es un animal doméstico con elevada incidencia de cáncer de mama y si operamos a la hembra antes del primer celo o después de este podemos disminuir en un alto porcentaje la posibilidad de que en un futuro pueda padecer esta patología). Si el método de esterilización es una ovariohisterectomia , tu perra no tendrá más celos pues se le habrán extirpado los ovarios, si sólo sacamos la matriz tú perra sí seguirá teniendo el celo, siempre es más recomendable una Ovariohisterectomía. La edad óptima para operarla estará justo antes del primer celo o entre le 1º y el 2º celo.

Quisiera saber cuanto tiempo debo esperar para bañar a mi perrita después de que haya tenido a sus cachorros.

Cuanto más esperes para bañar a la perra después del parto, mejor. Deja pasar como mínimo una semana, pero piensa que tras bañarla, rápidamente volverá a ensuciarse, seguirá teniendo pérdidas vaginales, y cachorros chupándole constantemente.

Me gustaría saber si es recomendable dar a los cachorros otra clase de leche aparte de la que les da su mama, qué tipo de leche sería y a qué edad.

Si tu perra esta bien de salud y el número de cachorros no es excesivo, no es necesario, suplementar a los cachorros, hasta que no tengan de cuatro a seis semanas, que será ya con papillas de crecimiento.

¿Cuándo debo desparasitar a los cachorros y a mi perrita, teniendo en cuenta que esta amamantando asus cahorros?

Si no desparasitaste a la madre justo antes de la gestación, o durante, te recomendaría que desparasitaras ya a los quince días de vida. Puedes hacerlo con infinidad de productos, por ejemplo que lleven mebendazol, fenbendazol, praziquantel, etc.

Material necesario para el parto

A continuación te mostramos algunas cosas que debes tener preparadas en el momento del parto, para asegurar que los niveles de higiene son los adecuados y que puedes gestionar cualquier problema sin nerviosismo:

• Periódicos para cubrir el suelo de la paridera
• Toallas secas y limpias para limpiar a los cachorros
• Papel de cocina para limpiar el suelo si fuese necesario
• Termómetro para tomar la temperatura a la progenitora
• Hilo dental para atar los cordones umbilicales
• Tijeras estériles para cortar los cordones umbilicales
• Bolsa de agua caliente para poder asegurar la temperatura de los cachorros
• Yodo para limpiar el corte del cordón umbilical
• Una balanza para pesar a todos los pequeños
• Una libreta para anotar el peso y otros detalles de los cachorros

Señales de que el parto de la perra se acerca

¿Cómo sabremos exactamente que ha llegado el momento? ¿Qué debemos esperar del momento del parto? Existen algunas señales que hacen evidente que el momento del nacimiento de los cachorros se acerca, por ese motivo, debes conocerlos todos.

The síntomas de parto en la perra más evidentes:

• Las perras experimentadas suelen empezar a producir mucha leche 48 o 24 horas antes del parto, mientras que las perras primerizas alrededor de los 7 o 10 días previos al parto.
• Una perra a punto de parir trata de esconderse constantemente en su paridera, dejémosle espacio.
• Pueden aparecer temblores, vómitos y orina.
• Observaremos contracciones abdominales y uterinas, cada 5 o 15 minutos.
• La perra expulsará una secreción mucosa-sanguinolienta, por ese motivo, si tu perra está preñada y bota mucosidad con sangre o algo parecido a "flujo marrón", no te asustes, es que el parto se acerca.
• El comportamiento de la perra en este momento se verá muy alterado.
• Descenso de la temperatura corporal entre 1 y 2ºC que podemos saber tomando la temperatura a la perra

¿Cómo es el parto de una perra?

Especialmente si te encuentras ante el parto de una perra primeriza, necesitas algunos consejos para saber si todo marcha bien. Debes saber que el parto de la perra puede durar hasta 4 horas y que el tiempo de descanso entre feto y feto puede alargarse desde 30 minutos hasta 2 horas, aunque no es lo más habitual. Una señal de que algo no marcha bien es que la perra tenga contracciones y que no expulse en mucho rato a ningún cachorro.

exist tres fases del parto en la perra:

1. Relajación o dilatación del útero: de 4 a 24 horas de duración. La hembra se prepara para expulsar a los cachorros. Es un momento de inquietud y nerviosismo. La vulva se agranda e incluso puede secretar algunos líquidos.
2. Expulsión de las crías: cuando las contracciones se empiezan a volver intensas y tienen una duración de al menos 60 segundos debemos estar muy relajados y estar atentos pues el momento del nacimiento está al caer. Observaremos como se lame la zona genital. Las contracciones serán cada vez más fuertes hasta que el primer cachorro es expulsado del cuerpo (sigue unido por el cordón umbilical a la placenta). El resto de cachorros van a seguirle de acuerdo a pequeños intervalos de tiempo. Por lo general el parto suele durar unas 2 horas aunque se puede alargar considerablemente si se trata de una camada muy grande. La hembra va a lamer a los cachorros para estimularlos mientras les corta el cordón umbilical. Son muy pocos los casos en los que no lo hace, si observas que no tiene fuerzas o no lleva a cabo esta tarea hazlo tú mismo. Recuerda que debes contar a los cachorros para saber que todos están fuera según los resultados de la radiografía.
3. Expulsión de la placenta: durante el parto, cada cachorro nace envuelto en una placenta, en cada una de estas ocasiones la perra la rompe para dejar respirar al cachorro y posteriormente se la come, pues el valor nutritivo es muy alto. Si observas que no rompe la placenta, hazlo tú mismo, sino los cachorros podrían morir. Además, te aconsejamos que si la placenta expulsada es demasiado grande no dejes a tu perra que se la coma, puede conllevar problemas digestivos.

El trabajo de parto y el parto en perros se divide en 3 etapas. La etapa I dura de 12 a 24 horas. Durante esta etapa comienzan las contracciones uterinas, pero no son visibles externamente. El cuello uterino también comienza a dilatarse. Durante la Etapa II, se pueden ver contracciones abdominales y se entregan los cachorros. Los cachorros generalmente se entregan a intervalos de 1 a 2 horas, pero eso puede variar considerablemente. La etapa II puede durar hasta 24 horas. La etapa III se define como la administración de la placenta. Los perros generalmente alternan entre las etapas II y III hasta que se completa la entrega.

Problemas del parto

Podemos afirmar que en la mayoría de casos no suelen existir riesgos en el parto, aún así y por este motivo precisamente, te hemos recomendado durante todo el artículo que acudas de forma periódica al veterinario durante el embarazo, pues el profesional mediante la realización de distintas pruebas te indicará si tu perra embarazada puede parir en casa sin ningún problema o bien requerirá una atención especializada.

Si observas alguno de los problemas en el parto de la perra que te mostramos a continuación llama al veterinario de urgencia sin demora alguna:

• Ausencia de contracciones uterinas
• Contracciones uterinas sin nacimiento
• Hemorragia
• Aborto
• Atasco de los fetos
• Retención de la placenta
• Muerte fetal
• Momificación

Algunos consejos para los 3 problemas más comunes:

1. Atasco de un cachorro: Si observamos un pequeño cachorro atascado en el canal de parto nunca tiraremos de él, le deberemos hacer girar en sentido de las agujas del reloj para fomentar la obertura de la vagina.
2. La perra no consigue cortar el cordón umbilical: Lo cortaremos con tijeras nosotros mismos, después haremos un nudo.
3. Un cachorro no respira: Le abriremos la boca y le practicaremos respiración artificial, además le masajearemos la región del tórax enérgicamente y aportando calor sin hacerle daño. Agítalo un poco mientras le sujetas la cabeza con cuidado. Debemos tener mucha precaución y conocer al detalle la reanimación de cachorros recién nacidos antes del parto.

Postparto de la perra

Si tu perra ha parido a tus perros mediante Caesarean section, deberás prestar especial atención a los cuidados de una perra después de una cesárea, para evitar que los puntos puedan abrirse y asegurar que las heridas cicatrizan de forma adecuada. Precisamente cuando la perra pasa por una cesárea puede ocurrir que rechace a los cachorros.

Recuerda que los cachorros dependen totalmente de su progenitora, tanto para recibir alimento como para regular la temperatura corporal. Su leche es importantíssima pues les inmuniza de enfermedades varias que puedan existir en el ambiente mediante una sustancia denominada "calostro". Como te hemos comentado anteriormente, si observas que no los lame o los alimenta deberás hacerlo tú mismo siguiendo los consejos de ExpertoAnimal sobre cómo alimentar a un cachorro recién nacido.

Envuélvelos en toallas de algodón y los ubicaremos a todos en un mismo entorno pequeño y caliente. Si tu perra no les ofrece de mamar le aportarás la leche que hayas adquirido en la tienda para mascotas, siempre en dosis pequeñas y siendo muy cuidadoso. Llama a tu veterinario de confianza y pídele consejo.

If you want to read more articles similar to El embarazo de la perra semana a semana, te recomendamos que entres en nuestra sección de Gestación.

¿Cuándo darle yogur a tu perro? ¿Como darle yogur?

En este sentido, lo primero a tener en cuenta es que las recomendaciones, ¡son orientativas! Normalmente suele ser una cucharada para perros de raza pequeña, y medio yogur para los perros de raza grande. ¿Con cuanta frecuencia? 3/4 veces por semana.

Si quieres darle yogur, se lo puedes dar solo, o mezclándolo con su comida habitual.

(Foto via: azvets)

¿Debo tener alguna precaución a la hora de dar yogur a mi perro?

Si nunca le has dado yogur a tu perro, ¡prueba con una cucharada pequeña! Además espera 24 horas para ver cómo le sienta.

¿Tu mascota tiene diarrea, vómitos o algo anormal? ¡En ese caso, puede ser intolerante a la lactosa! Llévale al veterinario para descartar cualquier otro problema.

En un caso normal, si le das una cucharada a tu perro, ¡no pasará nada! No obstante…¡Mejor prevenir que curar! ¿Verdad?

El flujo en las perras

Antes de explicar por qué una perra tiene flujo transparente, hablaremos de los flujos que se pueden presentar en las perras de manera habitual. Son los siguientes:

• Flujo rosáceo: esta coloración es típica del inicio delciclo estral y varía entre tonos rosa claro, sandía, rosa oscuro e incluso amarillento.
• Flujo sanguinolento: más que flujo se trataría de una secreción más o menos espesa, con mal olor y pus, que suele indicar una piómetra de tipo abierto, salvo que la perra se encuentre en celo, caso en el que el sangrado sería normal, o acabe de parir. En este caso se correspondería con los loquios.
• Flujo verde: si se produce durante el parto indica el desprendimiento de alguna placenta y debería seguirse del nacimiento de un cachorro en unos minutos. Si no es así, requiere atención veterinaria, ya que esta coloración de flujo fuera de este momento puede indicarnos infection.
• Flujo blanco: suele relacionarse con la presencia de alguna infección, como veremos en siguientes apartados. Puede adoptar también una coloración amarillenta o verdosa.
• Flujo transparente: generalmente un flujo claro y limpio formará parte de las secreciones vaginales habituales pero veremos con más detalle por qué una perra tiene flujo transparente en los siguientes apartados.

¿Por qué mi perra tiene flujo blanco?

Antes de explicar por qué una perra tiene flujo transparente, comentaremos qué causas pueden explicar que tenga flujo blanco. Como hemos mencionado, este tipo de secreción suele relacionarse con una infección, como la producida por una piómetra (infección uterina) o una infección de matriz. Por ello, es fundamental acudir con rapidez al veterinario para realizar pruebas, llegar a un diagnóstico y tratar, puesto que no actuar con rapidez puede suponer el fallecimiento de la perra en estos casos.

Otra posible causa es la vaginitis, una inflamación de la vagina, aunque esta no siempre implica infección. La vaginitis en perras adultas puede deberse a una malformación de la vagina, un virus transmitido durante el apareamiento, un hongo, etc. Al inicio, la secreción vaginal puede ser clara pero mostrarse purulenta si se produce infección. Veremos, además, que la perra se lame la vulva y, si tiene pelo alrededor, este puede estar manchado. Es una patología dolorosa y, por ello, puede que el veterinario tenga que sedar a la perra para poder examinarla. Requiere tratamiento para evitar que se complique y afecte al útero o a la vejiga. También existe una vaginitis juvenil que afecta a perras menores de un año. Aunque es habitual que no produzca sintomatología, puede observarse, en ocasiones, una secreción blanquecina.

Un caso no patológico que explica por qué una perra suelta líquido blanco o transparente por la vulva se da después de la monta y se produce por la salida de esperma que ha quedado en la vagina. Esto ocurriría durante las primeras 24 horas tras el apareamiento. Si la perra está en celo y no queremos que tenga cachorros debemos acudir rápidamente a nuestro veterinario. Se recomienda la ovariohisterectomía y revisar el siguiente artículo con nuestros consejos: "No quiero que mi perra tenga cachorros - Cómo evitarlo".

¿Por qué mi perra tiene flujo transparente?

La explicación por la que una perra tiene flujo transparente sin que se acompañe de otros síntomas puede ser una secreción vaginal normal pero, en ocasiones, puede estar indicándonos una pérdida gestacional en fases tempranas del embarazo. Los embriones ni siquiera llegan a implantarse por algún problema de la perra o por defectos genéticos de los cachorros. Si una perra está preñada pero ni engorda ni culmina con un parto puede que se encuentre en esta situación.

La reabsorción fetal sucede hasta los 40 días de gestación, aproximadamente. Es en estos casos en los que la perra podría presentar una secreción vaginal clara, aunque también podría tener sangre o pus. Además, la perra puede verse molesta, con fiebre o rechazando la comida, aunque si esta reabsorción se produce en los inicios de la gestación no habrá ningún síntoma. Si la muerte fetal se lleva a cabo en una gestación más avanzada, en vez de secreción clara veremos una hemorragia vaginal acompañada de tejido.

Mi perra está embarazada y tiene flujo transparente

Si una perra tiene flujo transparente y está embarazada es normal que nos preocupemos aunque, sin otra sintomatología, lo habitual es que se trate de secreción vaginal normal. En cambio, en el embarazo y en el parto debemos consultar con nuestro veterinario inmediatamente si observamos cualquier flujo o secreción purulenta, que puede indicar infección, verdosa, que señala un desprendimiento de placenta, o hemorrágica, ya que la perra podría estar padeciendo un sangrado.

Por otro lado, un líquido amarillento durante el parto se corresponderá, probablemente, con la rotura de unabolsa amniótica. Eso sí, un cachorro debería nacer en cuestión de minutos. Para saber identificar los síntomas de una perra que va a parir, consulta este artículo.

Otras causas de secreción vaginal en perras

Una perra que tiene flujo transparente o mucoso puede estar sufriendo algún tumor vaginal o vulvar, que son más comunes en hembras enteras de edad avanzada. Además de secreción podemos ver síntomas como hemorragia vaginal, lamido excesivo de la zona, aumento en la frecuencia de la micción e incluso puede verse una masa saliendo de la vagina. Suelen ser tumores benignos y pueden operarse.

This article is purely informative, at ExpertAnimal.com we have no power to prescribe veterinary treatments or make any kind of diagnosis. We invite you to take your pet to the veterinarian in case he presents any type of condition or discomfort.

If you want to read more articles similar to Mi perra tiene flujo transparente - Causas principales, te recomendamos que entres en nuestra sección de Enfermedades del sistema reproductor.