My dog stopped feeding her puppies, what should I do? - briefly
If your dog has stopped feeding her puppies, it is crucial to contact a veterinarian immediately. They can provide expert guidance and determine if there are any underlying health issues that need to be addressed promptly.
My dog stopped feeding her puppies, what should I do? - in detail
If your dog has stopped feeding her puppies, it's important to act promptly and decisively to ensure the health and well-being of both the mother and her litter. Here are some steps you can take:
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Check for Health Issues: The first thing to do is to assess the health of the mother dog. Common issues that might cause a mother to stop nursing include mastitis (an infection of the mammary glands), dehydration, and general fatigue. If you notice any signs such as swollen or painful mammary glands, lethargy, or lack of appetite in the mother, contact your veterinarian immediately.
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Examine the Puppies: Next, examine the puppies for any signs of illness. They may be weak, cold, or have difficulty nursing. If you notice any abnormalities like lethargy, unusual crying, or failure to gain weight, consult your vet right away.
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Hand-Feeding the Puppies: If the mother is healthy but still refuses to nurse, you will need to hand-feed the puppies. Use a commercially available puppy milk replacement formula, following the instructions on the package for preparation and dosage. Feed the puppies with a syringe or a specialized bottle designed for puppies, ensuring that they are warm and comfortable during feeding.
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Maintain Proper Hygiene: Cleanliness is crucial when hand-feeding puppies. Sterilize all feeding equipment after each use to prevent infections. Also, ensure the puppies' bedding area is clean and dry.
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Monitor Their Temperature: Newborn puppies are unable to regulate their body temperature, so it’s important to keep them warm. Use a heating pad set on low, wrapped in a towel, or place them in a box with a heat lamp above. Make sure the temperature is consistently around 85-90°F (29-32°C).
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Stimulate Nursing Instincts: Sometimes, the mother dog may need encouragement to nurse her puppies. Place the puppies near her and stimulate her nipples gently with a warm, damp cloth. This can sometimes reactivate her nursing instincts.
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Professional Help: If the mother continues to refuse to feed her puppies despite your efforts, it's essential to consult with your veterinarian. They may recommend medications or supplements to stimulate lactation, or they might suggest alternative feeding methods if necessary.
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Monitor Weight Gain: Regularly weigh the puppies to ensure they are gaining weight appropriately. Puppies should gain about 10-15% of their body weight each day for the first few weeks of life. If you notice any stagnation or loss in weight, contact your vet immediately.
By following these steps, you can help ensure that the puppies receive the nourishment they need to grow and thrive, even if their mother is unable to nurse them directly. Always remember that professional veterinary advice is crucial in such situations.