Table of Contents
What is Oxytocin?
Oxytocin for dogs is an important hormone in dogs, particularly during and after giving birth.
Why Oxytocin for dogs is Important and what it does
- Uterine contractions: Oxytocin plays a crucial role in stimulating uterine contractions during the birthing process. These contractions help to expel the puppies and ensure a smooth delivery. It also helps with expelling any residual blood and tissues like the placenta.
- Milk let-down: Following birth, oxytocin helps with the release of milk from the mammary glands. This process, known as “milk let-down,” is essential for the puppies to receive the necessary nutrients and antibodies found in their mother’s milk, particularly the colostrum, which is crucial for the puppies’ immune system development.
- Bonding: Oxytocin is often referred to as the “love hormone” or “cuddle hormone” because it helps to promote bonding between the mother and her puppies. This bond is vital for the puppies’ survival, as it ensures that the mother will care for, protect, and nurture them.
- Stress reduction: Oxytocin has been shown to have a calming and stress-reducing effect on animals, including dogs. This can be particularly beneficial for new mothers, as giving birth and caring for a litter of puppies can be physically and mentally demanding.
- Wound healing: After giving birth, the mother dog’s body may have some minor injuries or wounds. Oxytocin has been shown to aid in wound healing, helping the mother dog recover more quickly.
In summary, oxytocin is important for dogs that have just given birth as it aids in the delivery process, promotes milk production, facilitates bonding with the puppies, reduces stress, and assists with wound healing. It is a critical hormone for ensuring the health and well-being of both the mother dog and her newborn puppies.
Not just for Natural births, vital for c section!
Oxytocin for dogs isn’t limited to dogs having a natural birth. During natural delivery oxytocin and made by the body.
But during C section, this is given while the c section is in progress and should be given as soon as you arrive safely at home and again 2 hours later subcutaneously in the neck skin.
C section hinders the bond mothers develop having their puppies naturally because they’re unable to go through the steps of the birthing process.
Make sure your vet sends you home with some oxytocin for dogs to ensure things go smoothly.
Coming home from your C section should be calm and stress free. Take your time! Enjoy the experience!
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