Skip to main content
Cesarean section

Pet c-section surgery when every minute counts

When labor stalls, a puppy or kitten is stuck, or the dam shows distress, you need a team that can perform a cesarean section quickly and safely. Utah Veterinary Emergency Center provides emergency and planned c-sections for dogs and cats—walk in or call on your way.

When a c-section is needed

Not every delivery requires surgery—but when it does, delay risks both the dam and offspring. We perform cesarean sections when labor fails to progress, fetal distress is suspected, the dam is exhausted or in shock, or prior reproductive history suggests surgical delivery is safest.

  • Prolonged active labor without a puppy or kitten delivered
  • Green discharge before any offspring are born (can indicate fetal distress in dogs)
  • Weakness, collapse, or uncontrollable bleeding in the dam
  • Planned c-section for breeds or individuals at high risk of dystocia

Surgical and neonatal support

Our reproductive medicine program pairs advanced monitoring with hands-on neonatal experience. During c-section we prioritize safe anesthesia for the dam, rapid delivery of neonates, and immediate warming and stimulation of newborns.

We integrate ultrasound and exam findings when time allows, and communicate clearly about risks, costs, and post-operative care for both dam and litter.

Walk-in access for breeding families

Reproductive emergencies do not follow office-hour schedules at other clinics. We are open 11 AM – 11 PM daily. Call (801) 218-2227 on your way so we can prepare, or walk in if labor has stalled and you need help now.

We proudly serve pet owners from Herriman, Riverton, South Jordan, West Jordan, Bluffdale, Saratoga Springs, Eagle Mountain, and across the Salt Lake Valley.

Common questions

Can you perform an emergency c-section today?

During our open hours we can evaluate reproductive emergencies and perform c-sections when medically indicated. Call ahead when possible so our surgical team can prepare.

Do you offer planned c-sections for high-risk breeds?

Yes. We work with breeders and pet owners to plan cesarean timing when anatomy or prior history suggests vaginal delivery is high risk. See our reproductive medicine page for breeding support.

What does a pet c-section cost?

Costs depend on the dam’s size, stability, whether the procedure is emergency or planned, and neonatal care needed. We provide an estimate before proceeding whenever clinically possible.

Reproductive emergency? Come in now or call ahead

Prolonged labor without progress, heavy bleeding, or a non-responsive dam or neonate warrants immediate veterinary attention.