Abstract

It is not uncommon for beluga whales (Delphinapterus leucas) to experience dystocia.^1-3 This case report describes two unusual labor and deliveries after uncomplicated pregnancies.

Dam A is a 23.5 year old, multiparous female. The calf presented in dorsosternal anterior presentation and was born 2 hours later. Although the calf made strong tail excursions, he had to be assisted to the surface by divers. Due to the calf's inability to dive and abdominal crunching, the calf was restrained for physical examination and treatment including a KY jelly enema, umbilical stalk ligation, antibiotics and oral gavage of freshly collected mother's milk, electrolyte solution and gastroprotectants. The calf began diving and nursing within 24 hours of birth.

Dam B is a 20.5 year old, biparous female that had a stillborn calf in 2002. The 2009 calf presented in ventrodorsal posterior position, rather than normal dorsosacral posterior position.² Oxytocin was administered IM/IV (150-200 units) along with serum ionized calcium monitoring. Ultrasound confirmed calf viability, but detected mild detachment of fetal membranes. The calf's position and umbilical cord were palpated ^2,4 and sterile lubricant inserted. The calf was easily retracted by grasping the peduncle and gently pulling in concert with contractions. Despite serial examinations and round-the-clock care consisting of antimicrobial, fluid, oral maternal and paternal sera therapy, the calf died after 48 hours. Though the calf ultimately died, active assistance for dystocia during labor can produce a live calf and a healthy dam and should be considered on a case-by-case basis.

Acknowledgements

I want to extend my sincere appreciation to all of the Animal Health and Marine Mammal staff at the John G. Shedd Aquarium for their detailed, round-the-clock observations and exception level of animal care.

References

1.  Dalton LM. 2007. Reproductive biology of the beluga whale (Delphinapterus leucas). Abstr Proc International Association for Aquatic Animal Medicine; Pp. 175-176.

2.  Dalton LM, Robeck TR, McBain JF. 1994. Dystocias in two beluga whales (Delphinapterus leucas). Abstr Proc International Association for Aquatic Animal Medicine; Pp. 3-4.

3.  Robeck TR, Monfort SL, Calle PP, Dunn JL, Jensen E, Boehm JR, Young S, Clark ST. 2005. Reproduction, growth and development in captive beluga (Delphinapterus leucas). Zoo Biology 24: 29-49.

4.  Walsh MT, Beusse D, Robeck TR, Townsend FI. 2001. Perinatal complications in cetaceans and manatees; diagnostic and treatment considerations. Abstr Proc International Association for Aquatic Animal Medicine; Pp. 78-79.