Pregnant bitch wont let me take her temp

Question
My bitch is on day 57 of pregnancy. I have attempted to take her temperature rectally, but she just wont let me. I have made a few attemps, making her calm, etc but she freaks out. I am wondering is it at all possible to get a correct reading from taking her temperature vaginally? Is this safe to do? I think she will let me do this as she sleeps in my arms on her back. Just want to check her temp, make sure everythings ok. Thanks for your help.

Answer
Hi Sally,

It's worth a try to take your dog's temperature vaginally. It's internal after all. Keep in mind that not every dog will experience the temperature drop.

Ear thermometers can also be used in dogs. They are generally fast and easy but it is essential to use a proper technique to obtain an accurate temperature reading.

The normal Ear temperature in dogs is between 100.0 degrees and 103.0 degrees Fahrenheit (37.8 degrees and 39.4 degrees Celsius). The ear thermometer works by measuring infrared heat waves that come from the ear drum area. It is important to place the thermometer deep into the horizontal ear canal to obtain an accurate reading. An ear thermometer such as the Pet-Temp designed for cats and dogs works best due to a longer arm that allows for the probe to be placed deeper into the ear canal. The first few times you use it, take both an ear and rectal temperature and compare. The results should be very close if you are using the proper ear technique.

Best of luck,

Patti