Dystocia in a giraffe (Giraffa camelopardalis) prolonged labor leading to fetal death and manual extraction

Abstract

Background Managing dystocia in giraffes presents considerable challenges owing to the risks associated with chemical restraint, the need for timely intervention, and post-treatment recovery.

Objective This case report describes the clinical management of dystocia in a captive giraffe, focusing on the sedation strategy, obstetrical intervention, and recovery.

Case A 6-year-old primiparous giraffe (Giraffa camelopardalis) at Taman Safari Bali presented with dystocia 2.5 hours after strong uterine contractions following chorioallantoic sac rupture. The forelimbs and head of the fetus were visible, but no further progression occurred after 3.5 hours, indicating malposition dystocia.

Treatment Two doses of oxytocin were administered at one-hour intervals without progress. Chemical restraint was initiated using detomidine (0.04 mg/kg) and butorphanol (0.03 mg/kg), followed by azaperone (0.2 mg/kg) after unsuccessful extraction under standing sedation. The giraffe entered lateral recumbency 12 minutes later. The fetus, in an anterior-dorsal presentation with bilateral carpal flexion and nape posture, was manually extracted using traction ropes. The 45 kg male calf was delivered to the deceased. The sedation was reversed with atipamezole (0.1 mg/kg IM) and naltrexone (0.06 mg/kg IV).

Conclusion The dam stood within four minutes of reversal and recovered fully. This case highlights the importance of timely intervention, species-specific sedation protocols, and coordinated clinical management to address dystocia in giraffes.