Breeding Guide: Birth Trauma Figure 1

Birth Trauma Figure 1

Figure 1: Maternally Inflicted Bite Wounds

History

Pregnancy and delivey were normal with no litter loss.

Signs of Injury

Lacerations were noticed on the shoulder area as well as the underside of the neck. A shallow puncture wound was located on the head.

Diagnosis

Maternally inflicted bite wounds as a result of assisted birth.

Treatment

Initially, wounds were gently cleaned with a sterile saline solution and the pup was returned to its mother for feeding and care.

Wounds were checked daily to make sure there was no sign of infection (inflammation or pus) and antibiotic ointment was applied sparingly.

Outcome

All wounds were resolved by the end of 10 days. The pup survived and thrived.

Photos from left to right:
Photo 1 shows the lacerations and bite wounds on day one. The middle photo is at day 2. The last photo shows day 5 after the injury. You can see signs of scabbing as the wound continues to heal.

Photos by Joanne “Bella” Hodges

Posted on March 15, 2006, 08:48, Last updated on March 15, 2010, 20:08 | Figures