ArticlePDF Available

Proportion of litters of purebred dogs born by caesarean section

February 2010
Journal of Small Animal Practice 51(2):113-8

DOI:10.1111/j.1748-5827.2009.00902.x

Source
PubMed

Authors:

Katy M Evans

The Seeing Eye Inc.

Vicki Jean Adams

To describe the frequency of caesarean sections in a large sample of pedigree dogs in the UK. Data on the numbers of litters born in the previous 10 years were available from a cross-sectional study of dogs belonging to breed club members (2004 Kennel Club/BSAVA Scientific Committee Purebred Dog Health Survey). In this survey 151 breeds were represented with data for households that had reported on at least 10 litters (range 10-14,15): this represented 13,141 bitches which had whelped 22,005 litters. The frequency of caesarean sections was estimated as the percentage of litters that were reported to be born by caesarean section (caesarean rates) and are reported by breed. The dogs were categorised into brachycephalic, mesocephalic and dolicocephalic breeds. The 10 breeds with the highest caesarean rates were the Boston terrier, bulldog, French bulldog, mastiff, Scottish terrier, miniature bull terrier, German wirehaired pointer, Clumber spaniel, Pekingese and Dandie Dinmont terrier. In the Boston terrier, bulldog and French bulldog, the rate was > 80%. These data provide evidence for the need to monitor caesarean rates in certain breeds of dog.

. Number of litters reported and proportion born by caesarean section for 151 breeds for which data from the 2004 Purebred Dog Health Survey was available for 10 or more litters of puppies

…

Figures - uploaded by Katy M Evans

Content may be subject to copyright.

Content uploaded by Katy M Evans

Content may be subject to copyright.

htt

www.

sava.com

PAPER

INTRODUCTION

Statistics on caesarean sections in dogs are

difficult to come by. There is anecdotal

evidence that brachycephalic dogs are

more likely to need a caesarean section,

most likely because of a mismatch between

the bitch’s pelvic size and the size of the

puppies’ heads. A small study in Sweden

looked at 40 whelpings in 20 Boston ter-

riers and found that dystocia was more

likely to occur with increasing cranial cir-

cumference of the pups (Eneroth and oth-

ers 1999). It has also been suggested that a

significant proportion of pregnant brachy-

cephalic bitches undergo elective caesare-

ans before natural parturition begins.

A retrospective, longitudinal study in

Sweden using insurance data from 1995

to 2002 which included 195,931 bitches

found that the risk of dystocia was high-

est in the Scottish terrier, Chihuahua,

Pomeranian, pug and Staffordshire bull

terrier, and 63·8% of dystocic bitches

underwent emergency caesarean section

(Bergström and others 2006). The authors

pointed out that the Boston terrier, Eng-

lish bulldog and French bulldog were not

represented in their database as caesarean

section is not covered by the insurance

company in these breeds. Moreover, the

database included all insured bitches, not

just those that were pregnant.

The caesarean rate in humans has

been reported to be approximately 24%

of all births in England in 2006 to 2007

(National Health Service 2008) or 31·8%

of all births in the USA in 2007 ( Hamilton

and others 2009). Of course, there are

significant differences between dogs and

humans in terms of anatomy, reproduc-

tion and medical care among many other

factors.

To clarify which breeds of dog are

brachycephalic, we considered the skull

classification system (Evans and Chris-

tensen 1979). Skulls are classified accord-

ing to the ratio of the length of the facial

skeleton to the length of the cranial cavity.

The three categories are:

1. Mesocephalic – the facial skeleton is

the same length as the cranial cavity,

for example Labrador.

2. Brachycephalic – the facial skeleton is

relatively short compared to the cra-

nial cavity, for example bulldog.

3. Dolicocephalic – the facial skeleton is

relatively long compared to the cra-

nial cavity, for example greyhound.

The purpose of this study was to

describe the frequency of occurrence of

caesarean sections in a large sample of ped-

igree dogs in the UK, which were included

in the 2004 Kennel Club/ BSAVA Scien-

tific Committee Purebred Dog Health

Survey.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Data on the numbers of litters born in

the previous 10 years were available from

a cross-sectional study of pedigree dogs

in the UK (Adams and others 2010).

OBJECTIVES: To describe the frequency of caesarean sections in a

large sample of pedigree dogs in the UK.

METHODS: Data on the numbers of litters born in the previous 10 years

were available from a cross-sectional study of dogs belonging to breed

club members (2004 Kennel Club/BSAVA Scientific Committee

Purebred Dog Health Survey). In this survey 151 breeds were repre-

sented with data for households that had reported on at least 10 litters

(range 10–14,15): this represented 13,141 bitches which had whelped

22,005 litters. The frequency of caesarean sections was estimated as

the percentage of litters that were reported to be born by caesarean

section (caesarean rates) and are reported by breed. The dogs were cat-

egorised into brachycephalic, mesocephalic and dolicocephalic breeds.

RESULTS: The 10 breeds with the highest caesarean rates were the

Boston terrier, bulldog, French bulldog, mastiff, Scottish terrier,

miniature bull terrier, German wirehaired pointer, Clumber spaniel,

Pekingese and Dandie Dinmont terrier. In the Boston terrier, bulldog

and French bulldog, the rate was > 80%.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: These data provide evidence for the need to

monitor caesarean rates in certain breeds of dog.

Proportion of litters of purebred dogs

born by caesarean section

KATY M. EVANS AND VICKI J. ADAMS

Journal of Small Animal Practice (2010)

51, 113–118

DOI: 10.1111/j.1748-5827.2009.00902.x

Accepted: 17 November 2009

Animal Health Trust, Lanwades Park, Kentford,

Newmarket, Suffolk CB8 7UU

K. M. Evans & V. J. Adams

In brief, this survey gathered data on

dogs from 170 breeds recognised by The

Kennel Club (KC) and was administered

via breed club secretaries. Owners were

sent a questionnaire with a prepaid reply

envelope and were asked to complete it

anonymously for all dogs they owned of

the breed for which the breed club had

sent them the questionnaire. The ques-

tionnaire contained three sections per-

taining to the health status of all dogs

including questions covering the body sys-

tems, breeding of females and occurrence

of birth defects. A fourth section dealt

with dogs that had died in the previous

10 years. The questionnaire was designed

and pretested in two breeds, the Norfolk

terrier and German Spitz. Section B con-

tained seven questions on the breeding

history of all dogs owned and bred in the

previous 10 years of which the questions

“How many litters have your female dogs

had in total?” and “How many litters were

delivered by caesarean section?” were used

in this study. The questionnaire is avail-

able on the KC website (The Kennel Club

2006). Data were available for 36,006

live dogs of 169 breeds (as the German

Shepherd Breed Club did not participate)

and owners reported reproductive condi-

tions as open-ended responses in the first

section of the questionnaire.

In this analysis, 151 breeds were

included on which data were available

for at least 10 litters (range 10 to 1415):

this represented 13,141 bitches which had

whelped 22,005 litters. The frequency

of occurrence of caesarean sections was

estimated as the percentage of litters that

were reported to be born by caesarean sec-

tion, and these are referred to as caesarean

rates for each breed. The skull classifica-

tion system outlined above was used to

categorise the dogs into brachycephalic,

mesocephalic and dolicocephalic breeds.

The data were analysed using Excel (2002,

Microsoft Corporation).

RESULTS

The response rate to the survey was

24% (Adams and others 2010). There

were seven breeds for which there were

no reported caesareans (Table 1). These

were the Australian silky terrier, curly

coated retriever, German Pinscher,

Hamiltonstovare, Irish terrier, pharaoh

hound and Portuguese water dog. The

10 breeds with the highest caesarean rates

were the Boston terrier, bulldog, French

bulldog, mastiff, Scottish terrier, min-

iature bull terrier, German wirehaired

pointer, Clumber spaniel, Pekingese and

Dandie Dinmont terrier.

From the reporting of disease occur-

rence in the first section of the 2004

survey, reproductive conditions were the

most commonly reported overall and for

many individual breeds (The Kennel Club

2006). Dystocia was the third most com-

monly reported reproductive problem after

pyometra and false pregnancy. Five breeds,

French bulldog, King Charles spaniel,

Norfolk terrier, Norwich terrier and York-

shire terrier, were reported to have more

bitches that had suffered from dystocia

due to physical blockage than due to uter-

ine inertia. Nine breeds, Affenpinscher,

beagle, Boston terrier, Bullmastiff, Clum-

ber spaniel, deerhound, Irish wolfhound,

Labrador retriever and Scottish terrier,

were reported to have more bitches that

suffered from uterine inertia than physi-

cal blockage. Seven breeds, Border collie,

bull terrier, bulldog, Chihuahua, Dandie

Dinmont terrier, Pekingese and St Bernard

were reported to have approximately equal

numbers of bitches that suffered from

physical blockage and uterine inertia.

DISCUSSION

A multi-centre, prospective case series

studying dogs undergoing caesarean sec-

tion in the USA and Canada was under-

taken between 1994 and 1997 (Moon

and others 1998). The five most common

breeds to require emergency caesarean sec-

tion were the bulldog, Labrador retriever,

boxer, Corgi and Chihuahua, while the

five breeds most commonly undergoing

elective caesarean section were the bull-

dog, Labrador retriever, mastiff, Golden

retriever and Yorkshire terrier. In 1997 the

Labrador retriever and golden retriever

were both in the top four dog breeds

registered with the American KC, so the

authors felt that they were present in the

list of breeds most commonly undergoing

caesarean section as a result of their large

populations. However they concluded

that, as boxers and bulldogs were among

the most common breeds to undergo sur-

gery on an emergency basis, brachycephalic

breeds are predisposed to the development

of dystocia. Unfortunately it was impos-

sible to differentiate between emergency

and elective caesarean sections from the

data collected in the Purebred Dog Health

Survey. Despite this, the bulldog, Welsh

Corgi Pembroke, Chihuahua and mastiff

also had a high caesarean rate in the pres-

ent study, with the bulldog being the only

breed which had also been reported to be

in the top five breeds requiring both emer-

gency and elective caesarean section in the

North American study. Recall bias is a

potential limitation in this study as own-

ers were asked for information relating to

the breeding of bitches within the past

10 years. Nevertheless, owners appeared

to be able to provide the information

requested.

In the Swedish study of insured dogs,

the Scottish terrier was found to be the

breed at highest risk of dystocia, with an

incidence rate of 38·3 cases per 1000 dog

years (Bergström and others 2006). It

should be noted that the Boston terrier,

English bulldog and French bulldog were

not represented in the Swedish database.

Our data suggest that this may also be

the case for UK Scottish terriers as they

had the highest caesarean rate of all non-

brachycephalic breeds, at 60%. It has been

reported that some Scottish terriers have a

dorso-ventrally flattened pelvic canal that

increases the risk of obstructive dystocia

and the need for emergency caesarean sec-

tion (Eneroth and others 1999). However,

the data for UK bitches suggest that uter-

ine inertia may also be a problem in this

breed (The Kennel Club 2006).

A study of feline dystocia found that

cranial conformation was significantly

associated with dystocia (Gunn-Moore

and Thrusfield 1995). Interestingly, both

dolicocephalic and brachycephalic types

had a higher litter prevalence of dystocia

than mesocephalic cats, with the highest

prevalence occurring in dolicocephalic

breeds such as the Siamese. The present

data suggest that the dolicocephalic breeds

of dog may not have a higher occurrence

of dystocia compared to brachycephalic or

mesocephalic breeds.

Proportion of litters of purebred dogs

Table 1. Number of litters reported and proportion born by caesarean section for 151 breeds for which data from the

2004 Purebred Dog Health Survey was available for 10 or more litters of puppies

Breed No. of forms No. of dogs No. of litters

Caesarean sections

Number %

Affenpinscher 22 69 131 32 24·4

Afghan hound 23 50 61 13 21·3

Airedale terrier 25 71 127 22 17·3

Akita 13 24 49 5 10·2

Alaskan Malamute 10 14 20 7 35

American cocker spaniel 24 56 83 9 10·8

Australian cattle dog 9 22 35 9 25·7

Australian shepherd 8 26 56 1 1·8

Australian silky terrier 3 7 11 0 0

Australian terrier 4 13 22 1 4·5

Basenji 12 28 34 5 14·7

Basset Fauve de Bretagne 9 19 33 4 12·1

Basset hound 32 76 116 41 35·3

Beagle 74 187 312 66 21·2

Bearded collie 78 165 264 19 7·2

Bedlington terrier 30 72 164 10 6·1

Belgian shepherd 33 69 100 11 11

Bernese mountain dog 64 181 281 72 25·6

Bichon frise 13 69 142 8 5·6

Bloodhound 11 34 42 4 9·5

Border collie 51 134 227 24 10·6

Border terrier 94 297 542 95 17·5

Borzoi 17 30 36 5 13·9

Boston terrier 14 43 52 48 92·3

Bouvier des Flandres 12 26 39 8 20·5

Boxer 45 150 283 50 17·7

Briard 20 35 47 14 29·8

Brittany 17 35 57 10 17·5

Bull terrier 50 113 186 43 23·1

Bulldog/British bulldog 71 195 288 248 86·1

Bullmastiff 29 61 82 29 35·4

Cairn terrier 34 140 251 43 17·1

Canaan Dog 2 10 16 1 6·3

Cavalier King Charles spaniel 201 670 1207 158 13·1

Cesky terrier 3 13 18 4 22·2

Chesapeake Bay retriever 15 49 103 7 6·8

Chihuahua 17 137 262 90 34·4

Chinese Crested 9 21 37 4 10·8

Chow Chow 20 71 135 38 28·1

Clumber spaniel 17 44 62 28 45·2

English cocker spaniel 131 472 802 81 10·1

Collie 27 119 171 19 11·1

Curly coated retriever 13 21 28 0 0

Dachshund 72 305 504 157 31·2

Dalmatian 89 175 291 46 15·8

Dandie Dinmont terrier 20 43 70 29 41·4

Deerhound 55 110 153 43 28·1

Dobermann 28 57 93 10 10·8

Dogue de Bordeaux 9 11 18 5 27·8

English setter 69 195 270 60 22·2

English springer spaniel 49 118 195 20 10·3

English toy terrier 13 39 68 7 10·3

Field spaniel 21 46 60 5 8·3

Finnish Lapphund 6 12 18 3 16·7

Finnish Spitz 12 26 37 9 24·3

Flatcoated retriever 153 277 398 54 13·6

Fox terrier 24 67 126 19 15·1

French bulldog 24 53 80 65 81·3

K. M. Evans & V. J. Adams

Table 1. Number of litters reported and proportion born by caesarean section for 151 breeds for which data from the

2004 Purebred Dog Health Survey was available for 10 or more litters of puppies

Breed No. of forms No. of dogs No. of litters

Caesarean sections

Number %

German Pinscher 10 16 25 0 0

German shorthaired pointer 74 144 245 25 10·2

German Spitz 35 91 156 33 21·2

German wirehaired pointer 11 19 23 11 47·8

Giant schnauzer 12 29 51 6 11·8

Glen of Imaal terrier 8 13 16 3 18·8

Golden retriever 278 779 1415 250 17·7

Gordon setter 49 115 183 17 9·3

Great Dane 32 90 140 38 27·1

Greyhound 13 29 37 14 37·8

Griffon Bruxellois 23 53 82 32 39

Hamiltonstovare 4 9 13 0 0

Havanese 4 11 22 2 9·1

Hungarian Puli 8 19 29 5 17·2

Hungarian Vizsla 18 40 68 8 11·8

Hungarian Wirehaired Viszla 13 24 40 5 12·5

Irish red & white setter 44 97 144 15 10·4

Irish setter 115 238 343 38 11·1

Irish terrier 7 18 28 0 0

Irish water spaniel 24 49 73 4 5·5

Irish wolfhound 20 58 77 31 40·3

Italian greyhound 19 45 71 7 9·9

Italian Spinone 21 33 46 13 28·3

Japanese Chin 13 44 83 12 14·5

Japanese Spitz 7 17 35 1 2·9

Keeshond 25 63 90 11 12·2

Kerry Blue terrier 7 18 27 4 14·8

King Charles spaniel 15 52 78 17 21·8

Labrador retriever 197 492 866 175 20·2

Lagotto Romagnolo 3 5 12 1 8·3

Lakeland terrier 12 26 53 12 22·6

Lancashire Heeler 16 32 57 4 7

Large Munsterlander 17 30 35 7 20

Leonberger 22 48 72 17 23·6

Lhasa apso 37 130 216 29 13·4

Lowchen 10 54 108 8 7·4

Maltese 17 50 95 20 21·1

Manchester terrier 27 48 84 13 15·5

Maremma sheepdog 5 9 16 3 18·8

Mastiff 19 52 79 51 64·6

Miniature bull terrier 12 27 42 22 52·4

Miniature Pinscher 12 24 42 2 4·8

Miniature poodle 20 54 113 6 5·3

Miniature schnauzer 55 160 289 62 21·5

Neopolitan mastiff 3 7 11 4 36·4

Newfoundland 41 79 110 16 14·5

Norfolk terrier 77 181 324 56 17·3

Norwegian elkhound 15 33 56 6 10·7

Norwich terrier 24 78 134 49 36·6

Old English sheepdog 25 59 88 14 15·9

Otterhound 6 23 31 3 9·7

Papillon 44 106 189 33 17·5

Parson Russell terrier 23 81 165 37 22·4

Pekingese 20 101 178 78 43·8

Pharoah hound 5 8 10 0 0

Pointer 50 119 173 45 26

Polish lowland sheepdog 7 10 15 3 20

Pomeranian 16 87 168 37 22

Portuguese water dog 1 6 11 0 0

Proportion of litters of purebred dogs

Breed No. of forms No. of dogs No. of litters

Caesarean sections

Number %

Pug dog 50 142 223 61 27·4

Pyrenean mountain dog 21 34 38 11 28·9

Pyrenean sheepdog 2 6 14 1 7·1

Rhodesian ridgeback 52 102 173 11 6·4

Rottweiler 29 70 127 22 17·3

Saluki 22 49 54 8 14·8

Samoyed 53 119 222 52 23·4

Schipperke 12 26 47 13 27·7

Schnauzer (standard) 16 29 48 9 18·8

Scottish terrier 26 99 164 98 59·8

Sealyham terrier 6 9 10 4 40

Shar-Pei 16 58 111 3 2·7

Shetland sheepdog 109 333 640 93 14·5

Shiba Inu (Japanese) 7 19 27 2 7·4

Shih Tzu 32 100 171 36 21·1

Siberian husky 62 121 175 43 24·6

Skye terrier 14 29 36 2 5·6

Soft coated wheaten terrier 54 82 149 16 10·7

St Bernard 11 32 34 14 41·2

Staffordshire bull terrier 64 135 220 42 19·1

Standard poodle 44 108 189 21 11·1

Sussex spaniel 19 40 62 12 19·4

Swedish Vallhund 9 14 20 6 30

Tibetan spaniel 57 149 252 39 15·5

Tibetan terrier 31 92 177 18 10·2

Toy poodle 6 25 43 5 11·6

Weimaraner 76 133 207 13 6·3

Welsh Corgi Cardigan 15 36 64 14 21·9

Welsh Corgi Pembroke 33 130 199 71 35·7

Welsh springer spaniel 61 127 205 17 8·3

Welsh terrier 16 40 84 6 7·1

West Highland white terrier 54 166 366 69 18·9

Whippet 145 317 438 66 15·1

Yorkshire terrier 14 66 139 14 10·1

In humans, it is currently thought that

a caesarean rate of between 5 and 10%

seems to achieve the best outcomes for

the health of both mothers and neonates

and that a rate of greater than 15%, a fig-

ure recommended by the World Health

Organisation (WHO 1985), “seems to

result in more harm than good” (Alathabe

and Belizán 2006).

Some studies suggest that, in humans,

elective caesarean section offers no

real health advantages to either moth-

ers or neonates, and may actually carry

increased health risks compared with

vaginal delivery (Armson 2007). Howev-

er, it has been shown that there are fewer

complications associated with planned

caesarean sections than with unplanned,

emergency caesarean sections (Häger and

others 2004). If this situation is mirrored

in bitches, it could be suggested that

performing an elective caesarean section

is preferable to letting labour commence

and fail to progress. Leaving a bitch to

whelp unassisted can lead to the need

for an emergency caesarean section if it

is anticipated that the bitch is likely to

experience dystocia (due to previous dys-

tocia, size of sire or breeding history of

female relatives, as has been suggested

in humans (Tollanes and others 2008)).

However, this raises concerns about ani-

mal welfare – such as, should that bitch

have been mated (or mated with that

dog) at all? The authors understand that

The KC is seeking the support of veteri-

nary organisations in the UK on a pro-

posal to prevent the registration of a litter

if the dam has already produced two lit-

ters delivered by caesarean section.

The results of this study cannot neces-

sarily be generalised to all dogs because the

2004 health survey was a convenience sam-

ple rather than a random sample of the UK

pedigree dog population. However, this

large cross-sectional study provides evidence

that the caesarean section rates appear to be

high in several breeds. This study found

that five of the 10 breeds with the highest

reported caesarean rate were brachycephalic

breeds. Indeed in three breeds, the Boston

terrier, bulldog and French bulldog, the rate

was greater than 80%. These data provide

evidence for the need to monitor caesarean

rates in certain breeds of dog.

Acknowledgement

The authors would like to thank the

Kennel Club Charitable Trust for funding

this study.

K. M. Evans & V. J. Adams

References

ADAMS, V. J., EVANS, K. M., SAMPSON, J. & WOOD, J. N. L.

(2010) Methods and mortality results of a health

survey of purebred dogs in the United Kingdom.

Journal of Small Animal Practice, in press

ALATHABE, F. & BELIZÁN, J. M. (2006) Caesarean section:

the paradox. The Lancet 38, 1472–1473

ARMSON, B. A. (2007) Is planned cesarean section a

safe alternative? Canadian Medical Association

Journal, 176, 475–476

BERGSTRÖM, A., NØDTVEDT, A., LAGERSTEDT, A-S. & EGENVALL, A.

(2006) Incidence and breed predilection for dys-

tocia and risk factors for cesarean section in a

Swedish population of insured dogs. Veterinary

Surgery, 35, 786–791

ENEROTH, A., LINDE-FORSBERG, C., ULHORN, M. & HALL, M.

(1999) Radiographic pelvimetry for assessment of

dystocia in bitches: a clinical study in two terrier

breeds. Journal of Small Animal Practice, 40,

257–264

EVANS , H. E. & CHRISTENSEN, G. C. (1979) Miller’s

Anatomy of the Dog. W. B. Saunders Company,

Philadelphia, PA, USA. pp 118–121

GUNN-MOORE, D. A. & THRUSFIELD, M. V. (1995) Feline dysto-

cia: prevalence, and association with cranial conforma-

tion and breed. Veterinary Record, 136, 350–353

HÄGER, R. M., DALTVEIT, A. K., HOFOSS D., NILSEN,S.

T. , K OLAAS, T., ØIAN, P. & HENRIKSEN, T. (2004)

Complications of cesarean deliveries: rates and

risk factors. American Journal of Obstetrics and

Gynecology, 190, 428–434

HAMILTON, B. E., MARTIN, J. A. & VENTURA, S. J. (2009)

Births: preliminary data for 2007. National V ital

Statistics Report, 57, 1–18

MOON, P. F., ERB, H. N., LUDDERS, J.W., G LEED, R. D. &

PASCOE, P. J. (1998) Perioperative management and

mortality rates of dogs undergoing cesarean sec-

tion in the United States and Canada. Journal of

the American Veterinary Medical Association, 213,

365–369

NATIONAL HEALTH S ERVICE (2008) NHS Maternity Statistics,

England: 2006–2007. http://www.ic.nhs.uk/sta-

tistics-and-data-collections/hospital-care/mater-

nity/nhs-maternity-statistics-england:-2006-2007

[accessed 17 June 2009].

THE KENNEL CLUB (2006) http://www.thekennelclub.

org.uk/item/549 [accessed 17 June 2009].

TOLLANES, M. C., RASMUSSEN, S. & IRGENS, L. M. (2008)

Caesarean section among relatives. International

Journal of Epidemiology, 37, 1341–1348

WHO (1985) Appropriate technology for birth. The

Lancet, 326, 436–437

Comparison of short-term complications following Cesarean section or Cesarean section with concurrent ovariohysterectomy in bitches and queens: a pilot study

Article

Full-text available

Dec 2018

Margaret V. Root Kustritz

Cesarean section is a common treatment for canine and feline dystocia. Ovariohysterectomy may or may not be recommended concurrently. There are apparently no data in the literature providing evidence to guide decision-making regarding the advantages and disadvantages of performing these procedures concurrently. Animal signalment, history upon presentation, medical and anesthetic management of dystocia, and incidence of short-term complications were compared between bitches and queens undergoing Cesarean section alone and those undergoing concurrent Cesarean section and ovariohysterectomy. Short-term complications were defined as those happening after recovery from anesthesia and extubation and within several days after patient discharge. Complete data were available for two queens undergoing Cesarean section alone and two queens undergoing concurrent Cesarean section and ovariohysterectomy, and for 20 bitches undergoing Cesarean section alone and 22 bitches undergoing concurrent Cesarean section and ovariohysterectomy. No short-term complications were reported in any of these patients. An important limitation was small sample size; therefore, further investigations, perhaps by pooling data from several institutions, would be beneficial.

Evaluation of the value of genetic testing for cystinuria in the Danish population of English bulldogs

Article

Full-text available

Mar 2023
ANIM GENET

Cystinuria is a genetic disease that can lead to cystine urolith formation. The English bulldog is the dog breed most frequently affected. In this breed, three missense mutations have been suggested to be associated with cystinuria: c.568A>G and c.2086A>G in SLC3A1 and c.649G>A in SLC7A9. In this study, the occurrence of these three mutations in the Danish population of English bulldogs was investigated. Seventy‐one English bulldogs were genotyped using TaqMan assays. The dogs’ owners were given questionnaires concerning the medical histories of their dogs. Allele frequencies of 0.40, 0.40, and 0.52 were found for the mutant alleles in the three loci: c.568A>G, c.2086A>G, and c.649G>A, respectively. For both mutations in SLC3A1, a statistically significant association was found between cystinuria and homozygosity for the G allele among male, English bulldogs. For the mutation in SLC7A9, there was no statistically significant association between homozygosity for the mutant allele and cystinuria. Due to high allele frequencies, limited genetic diversity, continued uncertainty about the genetic background of cystinuria, and more severe health problems in the breed, selection based on genetic testing for the mutations in SLC3A1 cannot be recommended in the Danish population of English bulldogs. However, results of the genetic test may be used as a guide to recommend prophylactic treatment.

Prevalence of cesarean sections in Swiss Bernese Mountain Dogs (2001–2020) and identification of risk factors

Article

Full-text available

Dec 2022
ACTA VET SCAND

Background Dystocia is an important limiting factor in animal breeding due to its cost, stress for the mother and risk of death for the neonates. Assessment of incidence and characteristics of dystocia and the inherent risk of Cesarean section are of major importance. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the reproductive performance of Bernese Mountain Dogs in Switzerland, with a particular focus on the prevalence of Cesarean sections due to dystocia, and identification of possible risk factors. Results The investigated population included 401 bitches, 207 sires, and 1127 litters. Litter size was significantly influenced by age and parity of the dam. Incidence of Cesarean section was 30.4%, with 2.0% of procedures being elective. History of previous Cesarean section, age of the dam, and a small litter size significantly influenced the risk for Cesarean section. The stillbirth rate was 12.0%, and the number of stillborn pups was significantly higher for litters delivered by Cesarean sections after birth of the first pup. The inbreeding coefficient had a low to non-significant impact on all reproductive parameters (e.g., litter size, number of stillborn pups). Conclusion The sample of Bernese Mountain Dogs of our study had an increased prevalence of Cesarean sections compared to the literature, and advanced age of the dam, litter size and prior Cesarean sections in the dam’s reproductive history was identified as significantly influencing factors. In order to improve pups’ survival rate, elective Cesarean section may be indicated in bitches that have had a previous Cesarean-section/s, are of advanced age, and/or have a small litter.

Epithelial barrier dysfunction and associated diseases in companion animals: Differences and similarities between humans and animals and research needs

Article

Full-text available

Oct 2024
ALLERGY

Since the 1960s, more than 350,000 new chemicals have been introduced into the lives of humans and domestic animals. Many of them have become part of modern life and some are affecting nature as pollutants. Yet, our comprehension of their potential health risks for both humans and animals remains partial. The “epithelial barrier theory” suggests that genetic predisposition and exposure to diverse factors damaging the epithelial barriers contribute to the emergence of allergic and autoimmune conditions. Impaired epithelial barriers, microbial dysbiosis, and tissue inflammation have been observed in a high number of mucosal inflammatory, autoimmune and neuropsychiatric diseases, many of which showed increased prevalence in the last decades. Pets, especially cats and dogs, share living spaces with humans and are exposed to household cleaners, personal care products, air pollutants, and microplastics. The utilisation of cosmetic products and food additives for pets is on the rise, unfortunately, accompanied by less rigorous safety regulations than those governing human products. In this review, we explore the implications of disruptions in epithelial barriers on the well‐being of companion animals, drawing comparisons with humans, and endeavour to elucidate the spectrum of diseases that afflict them. In addition, future research areas with the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental well‐being are highlighted in line with the “One Health” concept.

Mortalidade Neonatal e Distocia em Cadela: Breve Revisão

Article

Apr 2024

A duração média da gestação canina é de 63 dias, podendo variar de 56 a 72 dias de acordo com a raça e o tamanho da ninhada. A taxa de mortalidade neonatal é elevada, podendo ter causas diversas que incluem: hipóxia associada à distocia, doenças genéticas, más condições de higiene no canil, doenças infecciosas, tríade neonatal, entre outras. O objetivo desta revisão é conhecer as causas de mortalidade neonatal em cadelas com enfoque nas distocias, reconhecer e intervir no parto distócico e os cuidados iniciais com o neonato visando diminuição na perda de filhotes. A revisão da literatura foi realizada no período de dezembro de 2022 a dezembro de 2023, nas plataformas de busca Google Acadêmico e Pubmed. Quando o parto não ocorre da maneira programada e a fêmea não consegue expulsar os fetos, sendo um ou mais, é denominado distocia, tendo sua origem materna, fetal ou mista. O Médico Veterinário tem um papel importante na redução de causas evitáveis de distocia, através da orientação dos tutores acerca de um acasalamento apropriado e cuidados durante a gestação. Palavras-chave: Prenhez. Canicultura. Parto. Filhote de Cachorro. Abstract The average duration of pregnancy in dogs is 63 days, which can vary between 56 and 72 days depending on breed and litter size. The mortality rate in newborns is high and can have various causes: Hypoxia associated with dystocia, genetic diseases, poor hygiene conditions in the kennel, infectious diseases, neonatal triad and others. The aim of this review is to understand the causes of dystocia, outline the necessary care during gestation in predisposed bitches and neonatal care leading to a reduction in neonatal mortality, and review the need for interventions during gestation. The literature search was conducted from December 2022 to December 2023 using the Google Scholar and Pubmed search platforms. When the birth does not proceed as planned and the bitch is unable to expel one or more fetuses, it is called dystocia, and the cause may be maternal, fetal or mixed. Veterinarians play an important role in reducing the preventable causes of dystocia by advising owners on appropriate mating and care during pregnancy. Keywords: Pregnancy. Canine care. Parturition. Puppy.

VETERINARY CARE NEEDS IN KENNELS OF BRACHYCEPHALIC AND NON-BRACHYCEPHALIC DOGS - PILOT STUDY

Article

Dec 2023

This is a descriptive, observational pilot study, based on the results obtained by applying an original questionnaire addressed to purebred dog breeders, speakers of the French and Romanian languages, regarding the perceived need for medical-veterinary assistance in canine reproduction. 44 answers were obtained (24 in French, 20 in Romanian) about 167 (100%) bitches from 33 brachycephalic and non-brachycephalic dog breeds, aged between 2 and 7 years, of which 75 (44.91 %) declared pregnant. The need for estrus monitoring by a veterinarian varied by group and breed type (68.62% of non-brachycephalic females, 41.66% brachycephalic), "small non-brachycephalic" breeds were monitored more intensively (90.90 %), artificial insemination was necessary in 49.33% of the gestation obtained (50.98% in non-brachycephalic breeds; 45.83% in brachycephalic breeds). All the breeders declared ultrasound confirmation of pregnancy, in brachycephalic breeds caesarean section was necessary in 45.8% of cases, post-partum veterinary control was requested only in 22.7% of cases, more frequently (37.5% of cases) to "large and medium brachycephalic" breeds (76.9% of answers). The puppies from the "giant brachycephalic" breeds were tested by a veterinarian, an aspect declared by 43.8% of the Romanian breeders and only 38.1% of the French respondents. Conclusion: Due to the type of research chosen, the results obtained in the present study cannot be extrapolated to the entire population of dog breeders, but it is a potential means of evaluating the needs felt and expressed by veterinary medical assistance in dog breeding.

PRACTICES AND MODELS FOR MONITORING AND CONTROL OF THE MICROBIAL RESIDUE IN PIGS AND POULTRY APPLIED IN ROMANIA

Article

Full-text available

Nov 2023

"Withdrawal periods after antimicrobial treatment have been defined as preventing in meat the presence of residues above the maximum residue limits (MRLs). However, errors can lead to residues above MRLs (Alban et al., 2023). The aim of the study was to perform a microbial risk assessment on pork and broiler carcasses. In the European Union (EU), the antimicrobial is prescribed by a veterinarian and the prescription contains information about the withdrawal period needed before the animal can be sent for slaughter (EU Parliament and Council, 2019). (Background:) Study wants to investigate the best practices applied in our country for monitoring microbial residues in pork and poultry carcasses. Procedures are in place to help avoid delivery of milk to the dairy processor or animals to the abattoir prior to the end of the withdrawal period. Still, residues can occasionally be present in animals sent for slaughter, with potential consequences along the whole meat chain (Arsène et al., 2022). (Methods:) Research was based on a qualitative analysis based on two questionnaires, one for business operators, the other to competent authority distributed to pigs and poultry abattoirs and competent authority. A statistical method was carried out for questionnaires analysis. (Results:) The results showed a variation in small or big facilities, abattoirs placing meat on national markets or to be traded and exported. Two best practices models were developed equal applied for pork and poultry production."

Satisfaction, behavior and health problems in whippets and miniature Italian greyhounds, as reported by their caretakers

Article

Sep 2023
J VET BEHAV

Veteriner Hekimlikte Güncel Değerlendirmeler

Chapter

Dec 2022

KÖPEKLERDE ÖSTRUSUN TESPİTİ, UYARILMASI VE BASKILANMASI

Veteriner Hekimlikte Güncel Değerlendirmeler

Book

Full-text available

Dec 2022

Veteriner Hekimlik dünyanın en eski mesleklerinden birisidir. Yalnızca hayvan sağlığı ile değil aynı zamanda hayvansal gıdaların uygun şekilde insan tüketimine sunulması ve dolayısıyla halk sağlığı ile doğrudan ilişkili bir meslek grubudur. Sağlıklı insan, sağlıklı hayvan ve sağlıklı bir dünya için çalışan veteriner hekimlik mesleği etik değerlere bağlı bilimsel yaklaşımlarla sağlık alanında hizmet sunmaktadır. Veteriner hekimlik mesleği, fizyolojik, metabolik ve anatomik olarak farklı birçok hayvan türü ile ilgilenmektedir. Bu türler arasında kanatlılar, memeliler, sürüngenler, sıcakkanlılar, soğukkanlılar, kara hayvanları, deniz hayvanları gibi çok geniş bir alanda hizmet vermektedir. Bu canlıların her birinin sağlıklı yaşam alanlarının oluşturulması ekosistem içerisinde önemli yer tutmaktadır. Günümüzde ekonomik değeri olan sığır, koyun, keçi, tavuk gibi evcil hayvanların yanı sıra kedi ve köpek gibi evcil dostlarımız da insan hayatında büyük bir yeri kaplamaktadır. Artık birçok evde kedi ve köpeklerle birlikte yaşanıyor olması, onların ihtiyacı olan yaşam standartlarının da sağlanması koşulunu beraberinde getirmektedir. “Veteriner Hekimlikte Güncel Değerlendirmeler” isimli bu kitabımızda, alanında uzman hekimler tarafından derlenmiş özgün bilimsel konular ve yaklaşımlar ile okuyucularına ışık tutacaktır

Methods and mortality results of a health survey of purebred dogs in the UK

Article

Full-text available

Oct 2010
J SMALL ANIM PRACT

To collect information on the cause of death and longevity of dogs owned by members of the numerically largest breed clubs of 169 UK Kennel Club-recognised breeds. A cross-sectional study was carried out. Approximately 58,363 questionnaires were sent out to breed club members in 2004 (nine clubs failed to report the exact number of questionnaires sent out). Owners reported age at death and cause(s) of death for all dogs that had died within the previous 10 years. A total of 13,741 questionnaires (24% response rate) containing information on 15,881 deaths were included in the analysis. Breed-specific response rates ranged from 64·7 to 4·5%. The median age at death was 11 years and 3 months (minimum=2 months, maximum=23 years and 5 months) and it varied by breed. The most common causes of death were cancer (n=4282, 27%), "old age" (n=2830, 18%) and cardiac conditions (n=1770, 11%). Clinical This survey shows breed differences in lifespan and causes of death, and the results support previous evidence that smaller breeds tend to have longer lifespan compared with larger breeds. Although many of the breeds in the study may not be representative of the general pedigree dog population in the UK, the results do contribute to the limited information currently available.

Deaths: Final data for 2006

Article

Full-text available

Apr 2009

This report presents final 2006 data on U.S. deaths, death rates, life expectancy, infant and maternal mortality, and trends by selected characteristics such as age, sex, Hispanic origin, race, marital status, educational attainment, injury at work, state of residence, and cause of death. It also presents more detailed information than previously presented about the mortality experience of the American Indian or Alaska Native and the Asian or Pacific Islander populations. Information reported on death certificates, which are completed by funeral directors, attending physicians, medical examiners, and coroners, is presented in descriptive tabulations. The original records are filed in state registration offices. Statistical information is compiled in a national database through the Vital Statistics Cooperative Program of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's National Center for Health Statistics. Causes of death are processed in accordance with the International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision (ICD-10). In 2006, a total of 2,426,264 deaths were reported in the United States. The age-adjusted death rate was 776.5 deaths per 100,000 standard population, a decrease of 2.8 percent from the 2005 rate and a record low historical figure. Life expectancy at birth rose 0.3 years, from a revised 2005 value of 77.4 years to a record 77.7 years in 2006. Age-specific death rates increased for those aged 25-34 years but decreased for most other age groups: 5-14 years, 35-44 years, 45-54 years, 55-64 years, 65-74 years, 75-84 years, and 85 years and over. The 15 leading causes of death in 2006 remained the same as in 2005. Heart disease and cancer continued to be the leading and second-leading causes of death, together accounting for almost half of all deaths. The infant mortality rate in 2006 was 6.69 deaths per 1,000 live births. Mortality patterns in 2006, such as the decline in the age-adjusted death rate to a record historical low, were generally consistent with long-term trends. Life expectancy increased in 2006 from 2005.

Births: Preliminary data for 2008

Article

Jan 2010

Births: Preliminary data for 2007

Article

Jan 2009

Miller's Anatomy of the Dog

Article

Jan 1993

H. E. Evans

Appropriate Technology for Birth

Article

Oct 1985

Ben Moore

Feline dystocia: prevalence, and association with cranial conformation and breed

Article

May 1995

The litter prevalence of feline dystocia was investigated using a questionnaire survey of cat breeders. Information was obtained on 2928 litters, from 735 queens. Dystocia was reported to have occurred in 5.8 per cent of litters. The level of dystocia in individual breeds ranged from 0.4 per cent of litters born in a large colony of cats of mixed breeding, to 18.2 per cent of litters in the Devon rex. Pedigree litters were at significantly higher risk than litters of cats of mixed breeding (odds ratio: 22.6). Relatively high levels of dystocia were identified in Siamese-type, Persian and Devon rex litters, whereas cats of mixed breeding showed a relatively low litter prevalence. Dolicocephalic and brachycephalic types were found to have significantly higher levels of dystocia than mesocephalic cats.

Perioperative management and mortality rates of dogs undergoing Cesarean section in the United States and Canada

Article

Sep 1998
JAVMA-J AM VET MED A

To describe dogs undergoing cesarean section in the United States and Canada, to determine perioperative management, and to calculate survival proportions. Multicenter prospective case series. 3,908 puppies from 808 dams. Survival rates immediately, 2 hours, and 7 days after delivery were 92, 87, and 80%, respectively, for puppies delivered by cesarean section (n = 3,410) and 86, 83, and 75%, respectively, for puppies born naturally (498). For 614 of 807 (76%) litters, all puppies delivered by cesarean section were born alive. Maternal mortality rate was 1% (n = 9). Of 776 surgeries, 453 (58%) were done on an emergency basis. The most common breeds of dogs that underwent emergency surgery were Bulldog, Labrador Retriever, Boxer, Corgis, and Chihuahua. The most common breeds of dogs that underwent elective surgery were Bulldog, Labrador Retriever, Mastiff, Golden Retriever, and Yorkshire Terrier. The most common methods of inducing and maintaining anesthesia were administration of isoflurane for induction and maintenance (n = 266; 34%) and administration of propofol for induction followed by administration of isoflurane for maintenance (237; 30%). Mortality rates of dams and puppies undergoing cesarean section in the United States and Canada are low. Knowledge of mortality rates should be useful to veterinarians when advising clients on the likelihood of puppy and dam survival associated with cesarean section.

Radiographic pelvimetry for assessment of dystocia in bitches: A clinical study in two terrier breeds

Article

Jul 1999

Radiographic pelvimetry was used to assess the role of pelvic anatomy in obstructive dystocia in bitches. Based on the history of previous whelpings, 20 Boston terrier and 14 Scottish terrier bitches were divided into two equal groups: normally whelping bitches and bitches with obstructive dystocia. Additional whelpings during the period of study were closely observed and the pups were immediately weighed and measured. The bitches were clinically examined and the pelvis was radiographed in ventrodorsal and lateral projections. Measurements from the radiographs showed a significantly smaller pelvic size in the bitches with obstructive dystocia compared to the normally whelping bitches. Fetal-pelvic disproportion in the Scottish terrier was mainly due to a dorsoventrally flattened pelvic canal, whereas in the Boston terrier it arose from the combination of a dorsoventrally flattened pelvic canal and big fetuses with large heads. These results suggest that radiographic pelvimetry could be used to predict a disposition for dystocia in individual bitches, and as a basis for selection of breeding animals.

Births: Preliminary data for 2000

Article

Aug 2001

This report presents preliminary data for 2000 on births in the United States. U.S. data on births are shown by age, race, and Hispanic origin of mother. Data on marital status, prenatal care, cesarean delivery, and low birthweight are also presented. Data in this report are based on more than 96 percent of births for 2000. The records are weighted to independent control counts of births received in State vital statistics offices in 2000. Comparisons are made with 1999 final data. The number of births rose 3 percent between 1999 and 2000. The crude birth rate increased to 14.8 per 1,000 population in 2000, 2 percent higher than the 1999 rate. The fertility rate rose 3 percent to 67.6 per 1,000 women aged 15-44 years between 1999 and 2000. The birth rate for teenagers, which has been falling since 1991, declined 2 percent in 2000 to 48.7 births per 1,000 females aged 15-19 years, another historic low. The rate for teenagers 15-17 years fell 4 percent, and the rate for 18-19 year olds was down 1 percent. Since 1991, rates have fallen 29 percent for teenagers 15-17 years and 16 percent for teenagers 18-19 years. Birth rates for all of the older age groups increased for 1999-2000: 1 percent among women aged 20-24 years, 3 percent for women aged 25-29 years, and 5 percent for women in their thirties. Rates for women aged 40-54 years were also up for 2000. The birth rate for unmarried women increased 2 percent to 45.2 births per 1,000 unmarried women aged 15-44 years in 2000, but was still lower than the peak reached in 1994. The number of births to unmarried women was up 3 percent, the highest number ever reported in the United States. However, the number of births to unmarried teenagers declined. The proportion of women who began prenatal care in the first trimester of pregnancy (83.2 percent) did not improve for 2000, nor did the rate of low birthweight (7.6 percent). The total cesarean rate rose for the fourth consecutive year to 22.9 percent, the result of both a rise in the rate of primary cesarean deliveries and a decline in the rate of vaginal births after previous cesarean delivery.