Special Operations Forces Medical Handbook

5-131

Subjective: Symptoms
Prior to parturition a normal animal will walk with difficulty, often looking back at her flanks. The udder
may swell and become distended with milk, the tailhead ligament will relax and the vulva may swell and
begin to discharge mucus or fluid. Restlessness and seeking a quiet isolated area is common. Some may
demonstrate an aversion to food and human contact. Pasture animals such as sheep may separate from the
herd and lamb on their own. NOT all animals will lie down for childbirth. Duration of labor varies considerably
between species (15 minutes for horse; up to 7 hours for a pig litter), and is longer in animals giving birth for
the first time. The farmer should know pregnancy status of animals and their due date. He/she may also be of
assistance in controlling the animal and giving medical history.

Objective: Signs
No tools or special equipment are required for a normal birth. Use of rectal thermometer is contraindicated.
Animal will present with an enlarged abdomen and a drop in body temperature (1-2° below normal 12-24
hours before birth–see Physical Exam section of this chapter). In cattle, fetal membranes filled with fluid are
visible outside the cow. Forelimbs and head emerge first from vagina, followed by rest of animal. Anterior
presentation with front feet first is the norm, but posterior presentation may occur and not be a cause for
alarm. Placenta and afterbirth will follow. Problem/difficult births can include posterior presentation, head or
limb deviations and complications arising from multiple births.

Assessment:

Differential Diagnosis: Tumor, bloat, pseudopregnancy.

Plan:
Treatment:

1. The owner/farmer should be in control of the animal at all times.


2. Minimize exposure to fetal fluids or tissues.


3. Allow fetal membranes to burst naturally during labor.


4. Occasionally the membranes will need to be ruptured after prolonged, non-progressive labor. Use a blunt,
   sterile instrument to make an opening in the membranes without harming the fetus.


5. If a complication arises, including labor for an extended period of time with little or no result, then the
   farmer may attempt intervention.


6. Veterinary assistance is needed for complicated deliveries.


7. To assist in extracting a fetus that is partially exposed with visible head, forelimbs or shoulder, GENTLY
   provide traction on the fetus downward and toward the hind limbs of the mother. If difficulty occurs consult
   with any available veterinary professionals.


8. After the delivery, ensure the young are being cleaned and cared for by the mother and that they have
   risen and attempted to move about.


9. Do not attempt to remove fetal membranes after birth - this may tear uterine tissue. Allow them to be
   expelled naturally.


10. Examine offspring for abnormalities and/or deformities. Turn over to farmer.

Vet Medicine Procedure:

Administer an Intravenous Infusion to an Animal

When: An animal needs intravenous medication or fluid resuscitation.

What You Need: IV catheters, IV administration sets, alcohol or Betadine swabs and appropriate
medication/fluids.