During the first stage of labor, your Welsh Springer Spaniel dog will begin to experience uterine contractions and she may also start pacing or digging. However, it is important to visit a veterinarian as early as possible if you suspect your dog is pregnant. Dogs may get behavioral changes early on in the pregnancy. }Week 8. }A good sign that your pregnant Miniature Pinscher will go into labor within about 24 hours is when the rectal temperature drops below 38°C or 100°F. Some dogs become. How to Take Care Of Pregnant Dog. Dog Pregnancy Signs. The more you know about what to expect,. Dog pregnancy symptoms. This will be the approximate date for when the new pups are expected. }The dog pregnancy signs can also be a sign that your dog is sick. Like humans, dogs also have trimesters but they are much shorter at roughly 21 days each. A Guide to Body Condition Scoring in Dogs – Work out your dog’s body condition score, an easy and accurate way to determine if you dog is a healthy weight. This is most noticeable if your dog is naturally full of energy. Physiological signs of pregnancy in dogs. The average heat cycle lasts between 2 to 3 weeks, but a dog may only become pregnant for three or four days during that cycle. If dogs experience nausea, it's usually during. During the first few weeks of pregnancy, your dog seems normal by gaining. However, like people, this is. This bump may even touch the ground by the end of the week. Understand gestation periods, signs of pregnancy, and prepare for your dog's journey. You may notice a slight discharge from your bitch at this stage which comes from around the placenta. These signs are easy to notice in a typical energetic dog and hard to detect for dogs that enjoy dozing all day and have low activity levels. Learn about fostering dogs that may be pregnant, pregnancy signs and stages, and how to feed a pregnant dog. Day 20. The only real main early sign of a dog being pregnant is weight gain. The gestation period in dogs typically lasts between 58 to 63 days, or around 9 weeks. Signs Of Labor In Dogs Who Are 9 Week Pregnant Digging at the bedding in their whelping space Gathering blankets or toys in their whelping space Appearing restless or agitated Body trembling or shivering Excessive panting Decreased appetite Vomiting Whining Hardened abdomen Noticeable abdominal. On average, dogs can be pregnant for approximately 62-64 days however, the exact dates will vary depending on your dog's breed and other factors. The ovulation takes place at the end of the cycle. If there are two matings, make a note of the dates and expect birth to occur between 63 and 65 days later. At this phase, week 4 or day 25, it is recommended that you ought to take your Japanese Spitz your local veterinarian. But most dogs are just as playful and active as ever at the start of their pregnancy. In the first few weeks, you may not notice any changes in your dog's behavior. A vet has various tools to test for pregnancy, among them the hormone test, ultrasound, x-ray, or palpation. The heat cycle lasts for 2 to 3 weeks and is comprised of 3 stages: Proestrus – the first stage of the heat cycle, lasting for about 9 days. He wrote: “My only sister and I never speak, except at funerals — we’re on. 5 day gestation for the average dog. A healthy canine pregnancy can last from 58 to 68 days, but the average delivery date is 63 days after mating. Your bitch should have gentle exercise up until whelping. Dog pregnancy is the period from the female dog’s ovums becoming fertilised until the day the litter of puppies arrives blind and helpless into the world. The gestation period—how long dogs are pregnant—lasts anywhere between 58 to 68 days (or roughly nine weeks). Dog’s Pregnancy Week 1: Mating. During the last three weeks of her pregnancy, she should gain weight – the amount will depend on her breed, structure, and litter size. Pregnancy in dogs is divided into three stages of 21 days each. The usual length of pregnancy for Boston Terrier is approximately 63 days from conception, however this can vary by several days. Many high-quality, over-the-counter, veterinary-recommended foods for pregnant dogs are available. Because canine ovulation produces many eggs, it is feasible for dogs to have many fathers in the same litter of puppies. This is especially important when making. The gestation period for dogs is only around 9 weeks, but in that time the most incredible transformation occurs. Switch to a high-quality puppy food during the 5th or 6th week of pregnancy. A healthy canine pregnancy can last from 58 to 68 days, but the average delivery date is 63 days after mating. 66-70 days from the initial rise in progesterone. Miniature Poodle dogs are normally pregnant for around 9 weeks (but this can range from 57 to 71 days). Depending on the breed and size of dog, puberty and the first heat cycle could occur anywhere from as early as 6 months of age. Your pregnant dog will also gain weight and you'll notice her enlarged tummy beginning around days 35–40 of gestation. Spinone Italiano Dog Pregnancy Calendar (Week 1 – Week 9) Spinone Italiano Pregnancy Week 1 Mating & Fertilisation. Week 9: the dog is ready to give birth and is restless & more irritable than normal. With a planned American Cocker Spaniel breeding, you should record the exact date of mating. Later into the pregnancy, her nipples may occasionally leak milk, as well. Around this time, a false pregnancy can happen. Nielsen, DVM, of Winterset Veterinary Center in Winterset, Iowa, says. During the first stage of labor, your Labrador Retriever dog will begin to experience uterine contractions and she may also start pacing or digging. Pregnancy Stages Week By Week. If there are two matings, record the dates and expect birth to occur between 63 and 65 days later. As you can see, a Chihuahua is usually pregnant for up to 9 weeks. Keep Calm: Maintain your composure while giving birth, and have faith in your mother’s maternal instincts. 1. article as pregnancy progresses. Chesapeake Bay Retriever. 2. Pregnancy in dogs typically lasts 63 days (about nine weeks). But, you probably won't notice any signs of dog pregnancy until your pooch is about 3 weeks along. Changes to the nipples and mammary glands are often the first, and the last, thing to reflect pregnancy in the bitch. With a planned American Pit Bull Terrier breeding, you should record the exact date of mating. There are very few external signs of the dog’s pregnancy in the first few weeks, so you may not notice a. Before labour begins, they may experience a drop in body temperature. It’s really important because this is the only information you need to use our dog pregnancy calculator. Australian Cattle Dog dogs are normally pregnant for around 9 weeks (hovwere this can vary from 57 to 71 days). 63 days equates to two full months and the start of a third. The first two months of pregnancy are behind you. M. During the first stage of labor, your Puggle dog will begin to experience uterine contractions and she may also start pacing or digging. Pregnancy in McNab dogs, also known as the gestation period, generally ranges from 57 – 65 days with an average of 63 days. Often, a dog that is in the estrus stage is said to be in heat or season. Though estrus ( heat cycles) can vary from breed to breed, the. If there are two matings, record the dates and expect birth to occur between 63 and 65 days later. If the dog’s activity level decreases and the dog spends more time sleeping, that may be a sign of pregnancy. Week 7. With a planned Olde English Bulldogge breeding, you should record the exact date of mating. With a planned breeding, you should record the exact date of mating. Only in the later stages of your dog’s pregnancy, you can count the puppies and that involves an X-ray after 55 days or more. Understanding the duration requires an understanding of how female dog heat cycles work. By the end of your dog's second trimester, their belly will get bigger. If there are two matings, record the dates and expect birth to occur between 63 and 65 days later. First Stage: Weeks 1-3. Between 5 and 7 weeks of pregnancy, the dog's nipples undergo noticeable alterations. Listen To Your Dog’s Belly. The duration of a dog's pregnancy can fall anywhere from 57 to 65 days. 5. Chart Polski. The Canine Pregnancy Timeline. It isn’t possible to note the exact date of ovulation unless you take your dog to the vet. Check with your breeder and vet. and catch a peek of the newborn puppies!We'll discuss everything from care of your pregnan. Not only is this the cheapest way to examine your dog, but it’s also less invasive. After mating with a male pet, numerous eggs come to be fertilized high up within the uterus. Weight Gain and Enlarged Abdomen. If there are two matings, record the dates and expect birth to occur between 63 and 65 days later. }By the fifth or sixth week, when the pregnancy is well established, you might notice your dog’s appetite increases, they gradually gain weight, and their belly becomes larger. Weight gain (from day 35, her weight will increase by up to 50% during the pregnancy) Swollen tummy (from day 40) An increased appetite (during the latter half of the pregnancy) Nesting behaviours. Treatments for fading puppy syndrome include warmth, fluids, and oxygen. Week 1: The mating and fertilization. Your strong and independent dog may become a clingy furbaby all of a sudden. This is when females start to attract males, although they will reject their advances. Similar to our “morning sickness”, your dog may vomit a little in the early. With a planned Mal-Shi breeding, you should record the exact date of mating. Day 21. " Some of the problems your dog might show during labor and delivery include: Not going into labor after 9 weeks have passed. You can typically expect a dog to give birth approximately 63 days after the day they mated; however,. To know more about symptoms or signs of pregnancy, additional information is available at Spotting the signs of pregnancy. }A good sign that your pregnant Welsh Springer Spaniel will go into labor within about 24 hours is when the rectal temperature drops below 38°C or 100°F. Proestrus lasts for about 9 days and is the first stage of the reproductive cycle. Vaccines may harm the developing puppies in utero. If there are two matings, record the dates and expect birth to occur between 63 and 65 days later. However, it is starting to take shape. The length of dog gestation actually depends on several factors that will affect its exact timing of delivery. A normal dog gestation period ranges from 57 to 65 days, or around 2 months. Step 9. Get an ultrasound for your Chinese Crested at your local veterinarian clinic to see the size of the litter, their health status and also for a reliable birth date. Nipples are swollen and red due to milk production for puppies. 2 months) 1. The gestation period for dogs is only around 9 weeks, but in that time the most incredible transformation occurs. Your dog can get pregnant with as few as two or as many as ten puppies! Pregnancy symptoms are not always obvious, especially in the beginning. X-Rays For Pregnant Dogs At Week 8 & 9. Week 9 of Your Pregnancy. With a planned Miniature Schnauzer breeding, it is best to record the exact date of mating. The level of amniotic fluid in the uterus increases. Loss of appetite and less energy. If there are two matings, record the dates and expect birth to occur between 63 and 65 days later. With a planned German Shepherd breeding, it is best to record the exact date of mating. }During the 5- to 9-week period of a dog's pregnancy, significant changes take place in her nipples, marking an essential phase of preparation for the upcoming birth and nursing of the puppies. In a few days after the mating, the sperm reaches the eggs and fertilization occurs. However, just as with human pregnancies, the exact length of puppy gestation. Monitor your pregnant Pomeranian for signs of impending delivery. A dog's gestation period lasts for about 63 days (or 9 weeks). Responsible breeding. Pregnancy in Standard Schnauzer dogs, also known as the gestation period, normally goes from 57 – 65 days with an average of 63 days. The dog’s pregnancy time is almost over. During the first few weeks of pregnancy, your dog. The average dog will have a successful pregnancy if you increase her food intake by 10% a week from week five to delivery. If you’reunsuree whether your dog is. As your pet's. If you are noticing any of these changes you should have your dog checked out by your vet. Wellness. Over this week, the spinal cord begins to develop. 8%, and. With a planned French Bulldog breeding, you should make a note of the exact date of mating. A dog's pregnancy will last an average of around 9 weeks, although this will vary according to certain factors such as size. The dog’s pregnancy time is almost over. During this stage, the puppy embryos travel through the mother dog’s reproductive system and embed themselves into the lining of her uterus within the first two weeks to 16 days. If there are two matings, make a note of the dates and expect birth to occur between 63 and 65 days later. This test can also help determine the gestational age of the fetus, giving you a better idea. 2 months) 1. Finished with her first meal of the day at 8:00 AM, she went out to pee and I noticed that she was shivering. Photo by Brian (Jetta Hibbs) X-rays are probably the most effective way to determine if a dog is pregnant. Make sure the whelping nest is ready to go. They become more prominent and take on a darker hue. See files for DogsIf you think your dog is pregnant or you know she is and are looking for helpful information on the stages she will go through, you have come to the right place. French Bulldog dogs are generally pregnant for around 9 weeks (but this can range from 57 to 71 days). Different breeds can tolerate higher protein. By Harriet Meyers Updated: Apr 21, 2022 | 8 Minutes Key Points Breeding a dog is a big responsibility, and there’s a lot to learn about dog pregnancy and delivery. A dog that is 7 weeks pregnant will typically have gained a noticeable amount of weight, and their abdomen will be obviously distended. }Pregnancy in Boerboel dogs, also known as the gestation period, normally ranges from 57 – 65 days with an average of 63 days. LoveToKnow Canine Due Date Calculator. Dogs may get behavioral changes early on in the pregnancy. Contents. Because the fetus has already formed and is. – Play as usual. Slight mucus discharge around a month after mating. Behavioral Changes. Hey guys! welcome back! Today we're looking at Lilly's pups in her belly!Comment some name ideas! We need your help!!!!Don't forget to like and subscribe the. The embryos then enter the uterus. 1. At this point, the puppies are ready and have fur. Lucky for you, this article is going to break down the entire dog pregnancy stages week by week in this handy guide. If you are planning a planned breeding, you should keep track of the precise day of mating. If there are two matings, record the dates and expect birth to occur between 63 and 65 days later. Shiba Inu dogs are normally pregnant for around 63 days (but this can vary from 57 to 71 days). This week’s goal must be to sustain your pet’s weight. . To ensure there is enough nutrients in your dog and her puppies, you’ll have to change their diet with higher energy, protein and also minerals. Dog pregnancy week by week. Antje Joslin, D. You may be wondering why there is such a wide range, and that’s an. 2. The final stage is aftercare performed by your dog, with ample supervision and assistance by yourself and your veterinarian. With a planned Australian Cattle Dog breeding, you should record the exact date of mating. Anyone who's ever been pregnant will be a bit envious after reading this tidbit: A dog's pregnancy is remarkably short—just two months—and the development of puppies happens at a rapid pace. Lucky for you, this article is going to break down the entire dog pregnancy stages week by week in this handy guide. #2 Abdominal Enlargement. The first heat usually takes place between 6 and 18 months of age, typically starting later in larger breeds, and dogs can become pregnant during their very first heat. At long last, the moment we’ve all been waiting for: the arrival of the puppies! During weeks 8 and 9, you’ll need to be on high alert for signs of labor, such as panting, pacing, shivering, or nesting. Norwich Terrier dogs are usually pregnant for around 63 days (hovwere this can range from 57 to 71 days). When it comes to the last couple of weeks before your dog is ready to give birth, you will need to change the diet a little. But while they have a much shorter gestation period, dogs often have large litters, depending on their breed. 000 or even $3. If your dog shows signs of discomfort, they may be getting ready to whelp. Border Collie dogs are usually pregnant for around 9 weeks (hovwere this can vary from 57 to 71 days). Pregnancy in Miniature Schnauzer dogs, also called the gestation period, usually goes from 57 – 65 days with an average of 63 days. }Tibetan Spaniel dogs are generally pregnant for around 9 weeks (hovwere this can vary from 57 to 71 days). #1 Early Signs of Dog Pregnancy. Once labor begins, the puppies will be born one by one, each enclosed in a thin membrane. As the first week begins, you may notice that the dog starts experiencing signs of morning sickness. A dog's gestation period lasts for about 63 days (or 9 weeks). }Mal-Shi dogs are generally pregnant for around 9 weeks (hovwere this can range from 57 to 71 days). With a planned Cavalier King Charles Spaniel breeding, you should record the exact date of mating. About 3 weeks into pregnancy, it’s common for a pregnant dog to experience some nausea and appetite. Medic Animal – Canine Pregnancy: The 7 Most Common Problems During And Post Whelping. Pregnancy in American Bulldog dogs, also known as the gestation period, typically ranges from 57 – 65 days with an average of 63 days. 2. If there are two matings, record the dates and expect birth. Day 19. With a planned Maremma Sheepdog breeding, it is best to record the exact date of mating. Weeks 1-3 . Some dogs may also show other changes, like aggression, agitation, and anxiety. Decreased Activity. Their midsections will seem firmer and more rounded. Your dog will likely need to see the vet a couple of times during her pregnancy. A dog's gestation period is around 63 days or about nine weeks on average. Quantifying Food and Water Intake. Canine pregnancy lasts for approximately 63 days, or 9 weeks. Stages of pregnancy Week by WeekStill, it’s a reasonable assumption: Canine olfactory senses are strong enough to smell disease-related changes in human blood and urine, and many male dogs are able to detect reproductive changes, like ovulation, in female dogs. The first sign that a dog is pregnant is when her nipples start to change shape. Short Answer: 58-68 days Compared to our lengthy human pregnancies that last about 9 loooong months, dogs really luck out with a much shorter pregnancy, or gestation period, that lasts only about 58-68 days (approx. Keeping track of the days is very. }The duration of dog pregnancy is 58 to 68 days. Still, it’s a reasonable assumption: Canine olfactory senses are strong enough to smell disease-related changes in human blood and urine, and many male dogs are able to detect reproductive changes, like ovulation, in female dogs. Every week of the female Chihuahua’s pregnancy counts and the weeks really do go by quickly. With a planned English Setter breeding, it is best to make a note of the exact date of mating. It is quite common to see mild mammary development occurring shortly after mating, especially if this is her first pregnancy. A good sign that your pregnant Labrador Retriever will go into labor within about 24 hours is when the rectal temperature drops below 38°C or 100°F. A sign. However, she might put on some weight and some dogs do get morning sickness. Dog Pregnancy Calendar . In most cases, your Dachshund will pant or shake. Kelly Roper – Stages of Dog Pregnancy – Love To Know. }The heat cycle goes on for 18 to 21 days and consists of four different stages. Week 9 (days 57 to 65) Now is the time most pugs will give birth. However, enlarging of the abdomen. }Pregnancy in English Setter dogs, also called the gestation period, generally goes from 57 – 65 days with an average of 63 days. (Days 8 – 14) the cells begin to grow and separate, new embryos descent into the uterus. It is quite common to see mild mammary development occurring shortly after mating, especially if this is her first pregnancy. During the first stage of labor, your Shichon dog will begin to experience uterine contractions and she may also start pacing or digging. Your dog’s energy levels ought to be the same as the embryos do not grow greatly yet. With a planned Bullmastiff breeding, you should make a note of the exact date of mating. Talk to your vet about whether they recommend your dog’s current food or a gradual change to a food approved for growth, such as puppy food or a performance diet. A dog can be pregnant up to nine weeks and only needs minimal human intervention during the pregnancy. Around day 35, they start to look like little dogs, and their heartbeats may be detectable by ultrasound. If there are two matings, record the dates and expect birth to occur between 63 and 65 days later. As you can see, many of the dog pregnancy signs don’t start to show until between days 35 and 40. After conception, it may be a while before you notice any physical signs of pregnancy in your dog. Call a vet if your female’s puppies start to come earlier than 59 days. Weight increase in onset of canine pregnancy is not encouraged for good health. Most dogs are pregnant for an average of 63 days, though that can vary depending on the breed and size of the dog, says Dr. Not all females go through this doggy version of "morning sickness," but some dogs do eat less during the first two weeks of gestation and make up for it later in the pregnancy. June 21, 2022. If your dog is pregnant or you plan to breed, it is best to prepare by becoming familiar with the normal canine birthing (whelping) process. A dog pregnancy calculator provides only estimates of due dates assuming the average gestation period of dogs. In this AnimalWised article we are going to tell you all you need to know about a dog's pregnancy and gestation period. Day 22. Your dog’s waters will also break just before birth begins. Early weight gain is not recommended for optimal health. While humans are pregnant for about 9 months, dogs are pregnant for about 9 weeks. These changes include an increased heart rate, respiratory rate, and increases in several hormones to aid in. With a planned Keeshond breeding, you should make a note of the exact date of mating. Larger breeds like Great Danes may have longer gestation periods, ranging. Pregnancy in Dogue de Bordeaux dogs, also known as the gestation period, typically ranges from 57 – 65 days with an average of 63 days. Your baby is beginning to look more like a little person since the embryonic tail is completely gone by week 9. The normal body temperature for. During the first stage of labor, your Great Dane dog will begin to experience uterine contractions and she may also start pacing or digging. By the end of your dog's second trimester, their belly will get bigger. Around 45. Readers Respond. Talk to your vet about your dog’s anxiety, so they can recommend a CBD oil for your dog. The heartbeat. During this initial phase of gestation (from mating until around day 35) the goal is to maintain your dog’s ideal weight. Keep the vet’s number posted in a prominent place during the last few weeks of your dog’s pregnancy. These symptoms will encourage you to take the animal to a veterinarian to test if it’s pregnant. About 24 hours before giving birth, the temperature drops, and she tries to find a nest. Weeks eight and nine are the last weeks of your dog’s pregnancy. }Confirm Pregnancy. From day 57, the beginning of Week 9, the puppy can safely be born, although it will usually wait until 60 to 63 days. One of the early signs of pregnancy in dogs is a change in the size and color of their nipples. By about halfway through her pregnancy, your dog’s physical appearance will begin to change. In general, dog pregnancy lasts between 58 and 68 days, or about nine weeks. Development begins on week 4, which is day 22 to day 28. By the end of the 6th week, your dog will have gained at least a little weight in the area near their uterus. You may notice a slight discharge from your bitch at this stage which comes from around the placenta. If your dog shows signs of discomfort, they may be getting ready to whelp. Third Stage: Weeks 7-9. Get the emergency number for after-hours and weekends, in case the birth or related. Day 21. Dog Pregnancy Signs. If there are two matings, record the dates and expect birth to occur between 63 and 65 days later. Though estrus ( heat cycles) can vary from breed to breed, the normal gestation period falls within the same range for all dogs, regardless of breed. Your canine’s energy levels ought to be the same as the embryos do not grow significantly yet. This will be the approximate date for when the new pups are expected. Your veterinarian can usually feel fetuses on abdominal palpation about 4 weeks into the pregnancy, but it’s hard to count them that way. Day 20. With a planned Jack Russell Terrier breeding, it is best to record the exact date of mating. Not all puppies are born with the coat collar of adulthood. 58-72 days from the first time the bitch allowed breeding. If there are two matings, record the dates and expect birth to occur between 63 and 65 days later. It can vary from around 58 to 72 days in total or between eight and 10 weeks. If there are two matings, make a note of the dates and expect birth to occur between 63 and 65 days later. If there are two matings, record the dates and expect birth to occur between 63 and 65 days later. Staffordshire Bull Terrier dogs are normally pregnant for around 9 weeks (hovwere this can vary from 57 to 71 days). If you have any questions, call the vet right away. }This canine pregnancy calculator will give you the expected dates of whelping for your mated bitch. and veterinary advisor for Dogtopia, an. As your pet's due date. Day 36+: The fetus continues to grow and develop and your dog's belly will enlarge. A pregnant dog needs a balanced, nutritious, highly digestible diet. Get an ultrasound for your Japanese Spitz at your local veterinarian clinic to see the size of the litter, their overall health status and also for a reliable birth date. If there are two matings, record the dates and expect birth to occur between 63 and 65 days later. So, how long are dogs pregnant? The answer is surprisingly precise. Pregnancy Week 9 Ultrasound Image – 3/25/2020. 56-70 days from the first breeding. They may not show for at least a month, but their behavior will give it away. }#dogbreederslife #dog #dogbreedingbusiness #dogbreeding #dogbreedseries #doglover #rottweiler #rottweilerdog #rottweilerlove #rottweilerpuppy #rottweilers #r. The pups will go from being something around the size of a hazelnut to something that starts to look like a proper newborn puppy. Mastitis occurs most often during the first two weeks after delivery. 4. However, this will. A pregnant dog will show physical and behavioral changes. Although this is scary and. When caring for a pregnant dog, regular walks will help keep up their strength, so your dog is primed and ready for the arrival of the little ones! Avoid any intensive training, showing, or even obedience schooling though during pregnancy as this can be stressful, and bumps or knocks to the body from boisterous. There are four methods used by veterinarians to diagnose a canine pregnancy, including an ultrasound, X-ray, hormone test, and a palpation. Increase in appetite. Dutch Shepherd Dog dogs are typically pregnant for around 63 days (hovwere this can range from 57 to 71 days). A cozy box or dry paddling pool in a calm and quiet area should do the trick; add old towels or blankets for comfort, and make sure they're clean. How to Take Care Of Pregnant Dog. With a planned Border Collie breeding, you should record the exact date of mating. Most canine pregnancies are between 58-68 days, with most dogs giving birth close to the 62 day mark. How Do I Know If My Dog Is Pregnant? If you think your canine friend could be pregnant, there are a few ways to get an answer. If your dog shows signs of discomfort, they may be getting ready to whelp. Week One: The Mating Call. However, the mating itself doesn’t ensure. Keep up with the dates that you witness the dogs mating or in a “tie. During these two weeks, puppies will increase in weight by about 75%, and your dog will begin to quickly show outward signs of being pregnant, too. Your dog’s body will continue to change, for example, its. In most cases, your Shichon will pant or shake. Smaller breeds like Chihuahuas generally have shorter gestation periods of between 58 and 63 days. Anything that deviates from your dam's normal behavior might be an early indication of pregnancy. With the help of the dog pregnancy calendar make a note of the dates that you witness the dog mating. These procedures offer early confirmation of pregnancy, help assess fetal development, and provide vital information for planning and preparation.