Canine Neonatal Health.

This article provides a high-level overview of canine neonatal health for clinicians to use as a mental framework so that when presented with a canine neonate it is easier to construct a logical and systematic clinical approach that is less overwhelming. As early detection of the at-risk neonate results in earlier intervention, and improved health outcomes, there will be a focus on pro-active care. Where appropriate, other articles in this issue will be mentioned for a more in-depth discussion of specific areas. Key points will be highlighted throughout the text.

Intracranial trauma in a dog due to being "swung" at birth.

A male Labrador Retriever neonate presented for evaluation 8 hours after birth because of the onset of generalized seizure activity. The neonate was one of 8 puppies delivered over a 19-hour period to a 4-year-old female Labrador Retriever at an assistance dog breeding colony. Uterine and fetal heart monitoring were performed during the first and second stages of labor; secondary uterine inertia was diagnosed 10 hours after the onset of stage-1 labor. In addition to standard medical therapy, manual assistance was provided for the delivery of all but the second puppy (feathering, pulling, elevating forequarters, abdominal compression). The puppy presented was the third puppy born. At birth, resuscitation efforts were instituted because of a lack of spontaneous breathing and bradycardia. In an effort to remove amniotic fluid from the airways, the puppy was "swung" by an experienced attendee in an arch from mid-abdomen height to knee height while cradled in both hands with the head stabilized. Initial evaluation of the puppy revealed normal blood glucose and no ultrasonographic evidence of hydrocephalus. Because of continued seizure activity, euthanasia and necropsy were elected. At necropsy, there was gross evidence of subdural hematoma formation. Subsequent histopathology of the brain, liver, lung, spleen, small intestine, colon, and kidney revealed subdural and intracerebral hemorrhage. Findings were consistent with high-velocity deceleration trauma ("shaken baby syndrome"). Traditional neonatal resuscitation via "swinging" is a dangerous and potentially lethal practice capable of inducing significant brain trauma in the canine neonate.

Clinically relevant physiology of the neonate.

During the 4- to 6-week neonatal period (birth to weaning), the physiology of canine and feline neonates undergoes dramatic change. Despite the neonate having the appearance of a miniature adult, their unique physiology has a significant impact on physical examination and laboratory test interpretation and may limit diagnostic capabilities and therapeutic options. In this article, the most striking physiologic differences between neonatal and adult body systems are discussed with respect to the resulting clinical implications.