DIAGNOSIS AND THERAPY OF THE SUBINVOLUTION OF PLACENTAL SITES IN THE BITCH

Within the last 19 years, 20 cases of placentitis post partum have bee n studied at the clinic. On 14 occasions the condition took the form o f excessive uterine bleeding (metrorrhagia) post partum and, on five o ccasions, of prolonged vaginal discharge lasting 8-13 weeks post partu m. One bitch with a clinically undetectable form of this disorder was diagnosed at ovariohysterectomy. The average age of the bitches was 4. 5 years (range 2-6 years). Examinations included abdominal palpation, vaginoscopy, vaginal smear examination and, if necessary, radiography and ultrasonography. The presence of decidua-like cells in the smear w as confirmed as evidence of abnormal uterine involution. Six dogs were subjected to ovariohysterectomy; histological examination revealed in flamed and degenerated areas of the uterine surface. Decidua-like cell s were seen for up to 10 weeks post partum. Fourteen bitches were trea ted successfully with an injection of the progestagen Niagestin (25-50 mg per bitch) and both intrauterine and parenteral antibiotics were a dministered. The discharge stopped within a few days in all dogs treat ed. A subsequent normal pregnancy occurred in four cases.