Recognizing and Supporting Pushing Progression During Goat Kidding

In this lesson, we observe a doe during the critical stage of active labor, focusing on supporting progression and recognizing natural birth dynamics.

Key Takeaways:

1. Understanding the Challenge: Shoulders First
   • The shoulders are often the most challenging part of the kid to deliver due to their width. Once the shoulders clear, the rest of the body typically follows more easily.
   • In this case, the doe is laboring on delivering a large kid, as evidenced by the size of the visible hooves.
2. Promoting Progress Without Forcing
   • The baby occasionally slips back into the birth canal, a natural occurrence during labor.
   • Gentle assistance can help maintain progress. Gently creating pressure on the hooves helps stimulate contractions without causing harm.
   • Avoid pulling aggressively, as this can harm both the doe and the baby.
3. Stimulating Contractions
   • Applying slight pressure on the baby can encourage the doe’s body to respond with a contraction.
   • Observe the doe’s behavior for signs of contractions, such as arching her back or increased effort.
4. Monitoring Positioning
   • Ensuring the baby is in the correct position (head and hooves forward) is crucial. If positioning is correct, allow natural labor to progress, intervening only if necessary.
5. Removing Excess Fluid
   • Excess fluid or “goo” can distract the doe, as she may spend time licking it rather than focusing on labor. Clearing the area can help maintain her focus.
6. Observing the Doe’s Labor Style
   • Some does prefer to labor standing up initially, while others achieve more progress when they lie down. Let the doe find the most comfortable position for her.
   • In this case, the doe ultimately chose to lie down, a common behavior when she reaches the more intense stages of labor.

Step-by-Step Guide to Supporting Pushing Progression:

1. Assess the Situation:
   • Observe the positioning of the baby (head and hooves visible, aligned correctly).
   • Check if the doe is pushing effectively or if she needs encouragement.
2. Provide Gentle Assistance:
   • Lightly hold the baby’s visible hooves to create gentle pressure during contractions.
   • Avoid pulling unless absolutely necessary and always in alignment with the contractions.
3. Encourage the Doe:
   • Provide calm verbal reassurance to keep the doe relaxed and focused.
   • Let her choose her position, whether standing or lying down.
4. Monitor for Shoulder Clearance:
   • Once the shoulders begin to emerge, expect the body to follow quickly.
   • Continue to offer support without rushing the process.
5. Celebrate the Birth:
   • Once the baby is delivered, clear the mouth and nose of fluids if necessary and ensure the doe begins cleaning the kid.

Final Notes:

This case demonstrated a smooth, natural progression of labor with minimal intervention. Supporting the doe through gentle encouragement and observation helps ensure a successful delivery while minimizing stress on both the doe and the kid. Always be ready to adapt and intervene if progress stalls or complications arise.