Given that whelping issues are common in dogs, particularly those of certain breeds, information about a dog’s cesarean section procedure and costs may be of interest to dog breeders. The cost of a dog cesarean section performed at the veterinarian may be approximately $500 to $600; however, if it is performed urgently in an emergency or veterinary specialty center, the cost may rise dramatically to close to $2,000 or more. Of course, costs vary from one place and another. However, what actually occurs during a dog’s cesarean section procedure? Here are some details provided by veterinarian Dr. Ivana Crnec.
Owners and breeders can ensure healthy, natural births by creating a truly compassionate environment. The easiest ways to achieve this are to feed nutritious foods, refrain from using chemicals (including unidentified herbs), and reduce the risk of illness while pregnant.
We can also help by selectively breeding for easier births and litter sizes that mothers can naturally feed and care for rather than for the smallest progeny or the largest litters.
In dogs with average anatomy, birth is uncomplicated. However, due to selective breeding, there have been physical and mental changes that may make giving birth more difficult. For instance, your female dog might have trouble getting the pups through her birth canal if she mated with a bigger male.
Puppies in very small breeds must frequently be delivered via Caesarean section due to the size of their pelvic canal. Additionally, some dogs who are in labor become extremely distressed and practically stop contracting, preferring to be on a lap rather than in the whelping pen. This is primarily because selective breeding has accelerated dogs’ puberty. Females may not be emotionally or physically ready to be good mothers as a result.
How Much Does a Dog Cesarean Section Cost?
The cost of a c-section depends on the geographic location, your dog’s age, breed, and how difficult the procedure will be. Additionally, emergency c-sections frequently cost more than scheduled procedures.
C-sections should cost between $1,000 and $3,000 in 2022. For dogs in rescue or that are strays, some veterinary practices may offer discounted rates. Here are some examples of what various veterinary hospitals in the US will charge for cesarean sections.
| State | Price |
| Illinois | $2,000 |
| California | $1,000-$1,500 |
| Florida | $2,855 |
| Georgia | $1,000-$1,500 |
Most of the time, you’ll take your dog to the vet before deciding to deliver him via c-section. Therefore, diagnostic procedures like blood tests, biopsies, or imaging will likely be an additional expense for you.
You might also face some additional costs with postoperative care. In order to recover and care for their puppies, mothers dogs should eat premium dog food. Additionally, the puppies must have a secure puppy box for their return trip from the hospital.
As you keep an eye on the dog’s health, you might need to plan additional vet visits. The sutures might infect, or your dog might have trouble eating. Additionally, you’ll need to keep an eye on the puppies’ health and make sure they’re getting enough milk. You might have to resort to hand feeding a puppy if they have trouble nursing, so buy extra supplies and formula.
The Importance of Dog Cesarean Sections
C-sections are potentially life-saving procedures for both pregnant dogs and their puppies. Dogs sometimes need a planned c-section if they only have one puppy because they need enough cortisol to go into labor, and one puppy may not be enough to induce labor. Dogs with very large puppies may also need a c-section rather than natural birth. If your dog has a pre-existing health condition, a c-section can be a safer way for it to give birth to her puppies.
For dogs going through a challenging labor, emergency c-sections might be required. An emergency c-section might be necessary if your dog has been pushing for more than 30 to 60 minutes and you haven’t been able to see the puppy. This procedure may also be required for dogs with very weak contractions or those exhibiting symptoms of illness, such as vomiting.
How Long is the Recovery Period for Cesarean Sections?
Dogs may take up to 2-6 hours to recover from anesthesia after surgery. Their appetites should also return after a few hours, and they should have had something to eat and drink within 24 hours of surgery.
Although some dogs may experience a higher internal body temperature, it shouldn’t persist for more than three days. Additionally, they may experience bloody vaginal discharge for up to 7 days following childbirth.
Additionally, dogs’ c-section incisions must completely heal without developing an infection. Some stitches require removal while others don’t. If your dog needs its stitches removed, your veterinarian will instruct you to bring them back to the office. They can usually be removed within 10-14 days.
FAQ
How long do dog c-sections last?
Most of the time, the procedure takes between 45 and 1 and a half hours to complete, not including the time required for preparation and anesthesia.
Do vets do c-sections on dogs?
While many healthy dog pregnancies can proceed without assistance, in some cases an elective c-section may be advised. If your dog has just one puppy, the mother may not be induced into labor by enough cortisol, necessitating a scheduled c-section; Puppies are very large.
When should I get my dogs C-section?
Your Dog’s Pregnancy A dog’s pregnancy lasts only about 63 days, and if your pup needs a c-section, there is only a small window of time—from days 61 to 65—when safe, elective c-sections can be done.
What kind of dogs need c-sections?
Large-headed and narrow-pelvic breeds frequently struggle with natural whelping. These breeds include, among others, the Pekingese, Bulldog, French Bulldog, Boston Terrier, Scottish Terrier, and Sealyham Terrier. For these breeds, it might be best to arrange a planned C-section.