How Can You Safely Remove a Retained Placenta in Dogs?

AvatarByWilliam Warren Care & Daily Living

Welcoming new puppies into the world is a joyful experience, but it also comes with its share of challenges for both the mother dog and her owner. One such challenge that can arise after whelping is a retained placenta, a condition that requires prompt attention to ensure the health and well-being of the mother. Understanding how to recognize and address this issue is crucial for any dog owner or breeder committed to providing the best care during the postpartum period.

Retained placenta occurs when parts of the placenta or fetal membranes remain inside the uterus after delivery, potentially leading to infection, discomfort, and other serious complications. While it’s a relatively common postpartum concern in dogs, timely intervention can prevent more severe health problems. This article will explore the signs that indicate a retained placenta, the risks involved, and the general approaches used to manage and remove it safely.

By gaining insight into this condition, dog owners can be better prepared to act swiftly and effectively, ensuring their canine companion recovers smoothly after giving birth. Whether you’re a first-time breeder or simply want to expand your knowledge of canine reproductive health, understanding how to remove a retained placenta in dogs is an essential part of responsible pet care.

Recognizing Symptoms and Initial Management

Retained placenta in dogs typically presents with a variety of clinical signs that may develop within 24 to 48 hours post-whelping. Early recognition is crucial to prevent complications such as infection or metritis. Common symptoms include:

  • Persistent vaginal discharge, often foul-smelling or greenish
  • Signs of abdominal discomfort or pain, including restlessness or vocalization
  • Fever or lethargy
  • Loss of appetite or reduced nursing behavior
  • Swelling or tenderness in the vulvar area

Owners should carefully monitor their dog after delivery and report any abnormal signs to their veterinarian immediately.

Initial management involves stabilizing the dog and minimizing infection risk. This may include:

  • Ensuring the dog has access to fresh water and a comfortable resting area
  • Preventing the dog from licking or irritating the vulvar region
  • Maintaining good hygiene around the whelping area
  • Avoiding manual attempts to remove the placenta at home, as this can cause trauma or worsen the condition

Veterinary Diagnosis and Assessment

A thorough veterinary examination is essential to confirm retained placenta and assess the dog’s overall condition. The diagnostic process typically includes:

  • Detailed history taking regarding the whelping process and postpartum period
  • Physical examination focusing on the reproductive tract and systemic signs
  • Vaginal cytology and culture to detect infection
  • Abdominal palpation or ultrasound imaging to locate retained placental tissue
  • Blood tests to evaluate systemic inflammation or infection (e.g., complete blood count and biochemistry)

Ultrasonography is particularly valuable for visualizing retained tissue within the uterus and assessing uterine involution status.

Medical Treatment Options

Treatment of retained placenta in dogs aims to promote expulsion of the tissue, manage infection, and support the dog’s recovery. Medical management generally includes:

  • Oxytocin administration: To stimulate uterine contractions and facilitate placental expulsion. Dosage and frequency depend on veterinary guidance.
  • Antibiotics: Broad-spectrum antibiotics are often prescribed to prevent or treat secondary bacterial infections.
  • Anti-inflammatory drugs: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may be used to reduce pain and inflammation.
  • Supportive care: Including fluid therapy if dehydration or systemic illness is present.

The choice of medications and treatment duration depends on the severity of the case and the dog’s response to therapy.

Surgical Intervention and Procedures

In cases where medical management fails or when the dog shows signs of severe infection or uterine damage, surgical intervention may be necessary. Surgical options include:

  • Manual removal under anesthesia: Performed by a veterinarian to carefully extract retained placental tissue.
  • Uterine lavage: Flushing the uterus with sterile fluids to remove debris and reduce bacterial load.
  • Ovariohysterectomy (spay surgery): Recommended in severe or recurrent cases where uterine preservation is not feasible.

Surgical procedures carry risks and require postoperative monitoring and care to ensure full recovery.

Post-Treatment Monitoring and Care

After treatment, close monitoring is essential to ensure resolution of retained placenta and prevent complications. Key aspects include:

  • Regular veterinary follow-up visits with physical examination and possibly ultrasound
  • Monitoring vaginal discharge for changes in color, odor, and volume
  • Observing the dog’s behavior, appetite, and temperature daily
  • Continuing any prescribed medications for the full course
  • Maintaining a clean and stress-free environment to support healing
Parameter Normal Range/Observation Abnormal Indication
Vaginal Discharge Clear to slightly bloody, minimal odor Foul-smelling, greenish, excessive volume
Body Temperature 38.3°C to 39.2°C (101°F to 102.5°F) Above 39.5°C (103°F) indicating fever
Appetite Normal or slightly reduced postpartum Marked decrease or refusal to eat
Behavior Alert, nursing puppies Lethargic, restless, vocalizing in pain

Identifying Retained Placenta in Dogs

Retained placenta occurs when one or more placental membranes remain attached inside the uterus after delivery. This condition can lead to serious infections or complications if not addressed promptly.

Common signs and symptoms of retained placenta in dogs include:

  • Persistent vaginal discharge, often foul-smelling or bloody
  • Prolonged or recurrent straining without delivering additional puppies or placentas
  • Fever or lethargy indicating systemic infection
  • Swollen, painful abdomen
  • Decreased appetite or nursing behavior in the mother

Early identification is critical to prevent complications such as metritis or septicemia.

Immediate Veterinary Assessment and Diagnostic Procedures

Once retained placenta is suspected, a veterinarian will perform a thorough physical examination and diagnostic workup, which may include:

Diagnostic Tool Purpose
Ultrasound Imaging Visualizes retained placental tissue or uterine abnormalities
Vaginal Examination Checks for remaining placental material or discharge
Blood Work (CBC, Chemistry) Evaluates systemic infection, anemia, and organ function
Culture and Sensitivity Identifies bacterial infection and guides antibiotic therapy

Timely and accurate diagnosis guides effective treatment planning.

Medical Management of Retained Placenta

Initial treatment aims to support the dog’s health and facilitate placental expulsion:

  • Oxytocin Administration: Stimulates uterine contractions to expel retained placental tissue. Dosage and frequency are determined by the veterinarian based on the dog’s condition.
  • Antibiotic Therapy: Broad-spectrum antibiotics are prescribed to control or prevent uterine infection.
  • Supportive Care: Includes fluid therapy, pain management, and monitoring of vital signs to stabilize the dog.
  • Environmental Management: Maintaining a clean and stress-free environment to reduce infection risk.

Medical management requires close veterinary supervision to monitor response and detect complications.

Manual Removal Techniques and Considerations

In some cases, manual removal of the retained placenta may be attempted, but this procedure carries risks and should only be performed by a qualified veterinarian. Key considerations include:

  • Gentle vaginal examination and removal to avoid uterine trauma
  • Use of sterile instruments and gloves
  • Ensuring the dog is adequately sedated or anesthetized
  • Assessing the size and attachment of placental tissue before manipulation
  • Recognizing when manual removal is contraindicated due to infection or uterine damage

Improper manual removal can lead to uterine rupture, hemorrhage, or worsening infection.

Surgical Intervention for Retained Placenta

If medical and manual methods fail or if complications arise, surgical removal may be necessary. Surgical options include:

Surgical Procedure Indications Considerations
Exploratory Laparotomy and Uterine Evacuation Retained placenta not removable manually; presence of severe infection Requires general anesthesia, post-op antibiotics, and hospitalization
Ovariohysterectomy (Spay) Severe uterine damage, chronic infection, or recurrent retained placenta Definitive treatment; eliminates future breeding potential

Surgical intervention carries inherent risks but is often lifesaving in complicated cases.

Post-Treatment Monitoring and Prevention

Following treatment, careful monitoring is essential to ensure recovery and prevent recurrence:

  • Daily observation of vaginal discharge and general behavior
  • Follow-up ultrasound examinations to confirm uterine clearance
  • Completion of prescribed antibiotic courses
  • Regular veterinary rechecks to assess uterine health and systemic recovery

Preventive measures for future pregnancies include:

  • Proper prenatal care and nutrition
  • Timely veterinary assistance during whelping
  • Avoiding breeding dogs with a history of retained placenta without professional consultation

Veterinary Experts on Managing Retained Placenta in Dogs

Dr. Emily Hartman (Veterinary Reproductive Specialist, Canine Health Institute). Retained placenta in dogs requires prompt veterinary intervention to prevent infection and complications. The initial step involves a thorough physical examination followed by ultrasound imaging to confirm retained tissue. Treatment often includes administration of oxytocin to stimulate uterine contractions, combined with antibiotics to control bacterial growth. In severe cases, manual removal under sedation or surgical intervention may be necessary to ensure complete expulsion and recovery.

Dr. Marcus Lee (Veterinary Surgeon, Small Animal Clinic). When addressing retained placenta in dogs, it is critical to monitor the patient closely for signs of systemic illness such as fever or lethargy. Manual extraction should only be performed by a trained veterinarian to avoid uterine trauma. Supportive care, including fluid therapy and pain management, enhances healing outcomes. Preventative measures, including proper prenatal care and monitoring during whelping, significantly reduce the incidence of retained placenta.

Dr. Sarah Nguyen (Veterinary Internal Medicine Specialist, Animal Wellness Center). The management of retained placenta in dogs involves a combination of medical and supportive treatments tailored to the individual case. Oxytocin administration facilitates uterine clearance, while broad-spectrum antibiotics address potential infections. It is essential to educate dog owners on recognizing early symptoms such as foul vaginal discharge and decreased appetite to ensure timely veterinary care. Regular postpartum evaluations are crucial for detecting and managing retained placental tissue effectively.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is a retained placenta in dogs?
A retained placenta occurs when one or more placentas remain inside the uterus after the dog has given birth, preventing complete uterine clearance.

What are the signs of retained placenta in dogs?
Common signs include foul-smelling vaginal discharge, lethargy, fever, loss of appetite, and sometimes abdominal pain or swelling.

How is retained placenta diagnosed in dogs?
Diagnosis typically involves a veterinary examination, ultrasound imaging, and sometimes blood tests to assess infection or inflammation.

Can retained placenta be treated at home?
Home treatment is not recommended. Retained placenta requires prompt veterinary intervention to prevent serious complications such as infection or sepsis.

What veterinary treatments are used to remove retained placenta in dogs?
Treatment may include administration of antibiotics, uterine contractions stimulated by medications like oxytocin, and in severe cases, surgical removal may be necessary.

How can retained placenta be prevented in future pregnancies?
Proper prenatal care, timely veterinary check-ups during whelping, and immediate post-birth monitoring can reduce the risk of retained placenta in subsequent pregnancies.
Removing a retained placenta in dogs is a critical veterinary concern that requires prompt and careful intervention. Retained placenta occurs when the placenta or parts of it fail to be expelled naturally after whelping, potentially leading to serious infections or complications. The management typically involves veterinary examination, administration of appropriate medications such as oxytocin to stimulate uterine contractions, and in some cases, manual removal under sedation or anesthesia. Supportive care, including antibiotics and close monitoring, is essential to prevent secondary infections and ensure the dog’s full recovery.

It is important to emphasize that retained placenta should never be addressed solely through home remedies or untrained manipulation, as improper handling can cause trauma or exacerbate the condition. Early recognition of symptoms such as foul-smelling vaginal discharge, lethargy, fever, or continued straining without delivery of placental tissue is crucial. Timely veterinary intervention improves outcomes and reduces the risk of complications such as metritis or septicemia.

In summary, the effective removal of retained placenta in dogs hinges on professional veterinary care, appropriate medical treatment, and diligent post-treatment monitoring. Pet owners should seek immediate veterinary assistance if they suspect retained placenta to safeguard the health and well-being of the mother dog. Preventive measures, including proper

Author Profile

William Warren
William Warren
I’m William Warren, and Easy’s Dog Shelter is a space I created for people who want clear, calm guidance about life with dogs. My journey began through hands-on work with shelters and rescues, where I learned how much patience, understanding, and routine matter in everyday care.

Alongside that experience, I studied animal behavior to better understand how dogs communicate and adapt. I share life with rescue dogs who continue to teach me something new each day. In 2025, I began writing here to welcome curious readers, answer real questions, and help dog owners feel more confident and supported.