306 DISEASES OF THE UTERUS 



monstrosities, they are too large to pass through the pelvic 

 canal. 



(h) There is frequently a narrowing of the pelvic canal 

 from tumors in the vagina, fractures of the pelvic bones with 

 enlargement, etc. 



2. It has been observed frequently that environment has 

 a great deal to do with producing dystocia in the bitch. 

 Animals that are kept closely confined, fed highly nutritious 

 food, and are not exercised, are more predisposed to parturi- 

 tion difficulties. Some breeds are more often affected than 

 others, perhaps due in most cases to the manner in which 

 they are cared for. 



3. Mating animals of extremes in size, particularly a small 

 female bred to large male. The young will be too large in 

 some cases to be expelled. 



4. Young females at the first birth are more commonly 

 affected with dystocia than at later periods. 



5. Females when bred before reaching complete maturity 

 often will have difficulty at the time of parturition. 



Symptoms.— In normal parturition it requires from three 

 to thirty-six hours for the birth of the young. It depends 

 somewhat on the number of fetuses, and the condition of the 

 animal. Therefore it is sometimes difficult to determine 

 accurately the time at which dystocia begins. The principal 

 symptoms of dystocia are : Extreme restlessness ; severe labor 

 pains at first, later their cessation; discharge from the 

 vagina; general weakness. 



Examination of the patient will determine the condition. 

 The following examination should be made in these cases: 



Note the general condition in regard to pulse, respiration 

 and temperature. Note the physical condition. 



Palpate the abdominal region to determine whether any 

 young are present. Differentiate between the presence of 

 fetuses and other enlargements commonly found in this 

 location. 



Note the condition of the external genitals; the discharge 

 from the vulva. Disinfect the fingers and palpate through the 

 vagina. If the fetus has been presented at the pelvic inlet, 

 it can be felt. If still in the uterus it may not be determined 



