Bilateral anophthalmia and asymmetry of face and head in canine fetus

Abstract

A non-descriptive bitch was presented to the clinics had delivered three dead fetuses around 24h earlier. The bitch was dull and anorectic and was not straining. On clinical evaluation and per vaginal examination, foul smelling uterine discharge was observed. Radiographic investigations confirmed presence of one pup in the uterus. Consistent efforts by the bitch and failure of expulsion of remaining pups might have led to exhaustion and hence secondary uterine inertia. After resuscitation, cesarean section was conducted under general anaesthesia (Atropine + Xylazine and Ketamine) to relieve the condition. One abnormal pup with bilateral anopthalmia was delievered. The failure of fetal brain development might have lead to bilateral anopthalmia and asymmetry of the face and head. Anopthalmia in fetus of non- descriptive bitch, successfully treated by cesarean section is reported.