Homoeopathics to assist reproduction and fertility

First things first:
The state of health of young puppies can be very dependant upon the state of health of not only the bitch at the time of their birth and during nursing, but also the state of health of both the bitch and the stud dog at the time of conception. Healthy bitches produce healthy eggs and healthy stud dogs produce healthy sperm. Although this makes common sense, it is not always recognized to be important.

If either potential parent is not in full health at mating time, I strongly recommend the owner consult a medical herbalist, homoeopath or naturopath who treats animals to assess the animal and improve their health where possible.

Fertility Problems:
There can be a number of things which cause infertility, such as ovarian cysts, hormonal dysfunctions, infection and even emotional or behavioural problems. I have had to treat both male and female dogs to assist with fertility. Most often I have found that homoeopathics work really well and sometimes with help from herbal medicine also. Homoeopathics are chosen according the "symptom picture" the bitch shows or her previous experience. Just to give you an idea of what a homoeopath might use, here's a few examples:

Sepia is used for almost all hormonal dysfunctions especially when there seems to be no apparent cause for the problem. It can be used where there is irregular cycles.

Nat mur is good for bitches who have been bred over and over again without good management and are rundown and malnourished. They are often a bitch who appears to be rather shut off emotionally.

Platina is used for bitches who are very ready to mate, but have hard heat cycles and seem dazed during their heat.

Staphysagria is for the bitch who has been "raped" by several dogs or raped whilst chained up and is now violent and aggressive with the stud dog.

Sometimes I use herbs such as Vitex agnus castus for hormonal problems in bitches.

Pregnancy:
Generally if all things have been well managed, the bitch hopefully doesn't require medicine during her pregnancy.

However, a good diet with special attention paid to nutrient content in her food is important.

Preparing for the Birth:
I always recommend a few doses of Arnica in the last two or three days before the birth. This prepares the bitch for an easier birth hopefully and reduces the bruising of soft tissue. Arnica should be given twice daily following the birth for three days.

If you have a bitch who has in the past has had slow or difficult births I would recommend giving her Caulophyllum for 2 days before the birth and if possible during the birth if she is struggling. This homoeopathic can be wonderful to assist a small bitch who may be expecting large pups.

Birthing:
Mostly bitches are really fine at giving birth. But it doesn't hurt to have some homoeopathics to hand if problems should arise.

Aconite is a good one to have for the fearful new mother-to-be. Also any pups suffering from a difficult birth could do with both Aconite and Arnica.

Sabina and Secale are two homoeopathics which are used for retained placenta. Sabina where there is bright red blood and Secale if there is an offensive brown discharge.

This article is just to give you an idea of what is available, but if you are breeding bitches regularly and sometimes encounter problems, you may wish to talk to your local homoeopath or contact me for more specific advice.

The state of health of puppies is largely dependent upon the state of health of the bitch and stud dog at the time of conception.