The veterinary nurse's role in canine caesarean management
12 Jun 2026
BVNA Nursing Theatre
Surgical nursing
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ECC
Canine caesareans have increased in number over recent years – perhaps due in part to an increase in popularity of breeds that have a higher likelihood of dystocia, due to poor conformation or conditions such as brachycephaly.
Whilst dystocia and a subsequent caesarean commonly present in the emergency and out of hours setting, elective caesareans may also be increasingly popular with breeders – should the dam have an increased risk of dystocia.
Whether elective or emergency in nature, it is essential that the registered veterinary nurse or technician is equipped with the knowledge, understanding, and practical skills to successfully manage the caesarean patient and her unborn litter – helping to improve treatment outcome.
- Recognise the physiological pregnancy-associated changes in the presenting dam
- Understand how physiological changes may impact health, anaesthesia and surgery
- Identify veterinary nursing interventions for the caesarean patient
- Improved confidence in veterinary nursing of caesarean patients
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