I just want to say, just because we choose to breed our pets does not mean we are ignorant of facts. When I purchased my puppies, I thought I might want to breed them. I research everything I do, not just puppies.
I have received a lot of help on this forum, I have five puppies that will be 6 weeks old tomorrow. One pup did not gain weight for the first three days. I purchased a syringe, and a bottle to try to feed him. I had already tried an eyedropper. I decided from speaking to some here that since he was still able to suckle, it would be the best for him. I had the vet check him on day four when they had their tails docked and dew claws removed. She was going to show me how to tube feed him if he failed to thrive.
I had to go out of town for two days on weekend 3. When I returned my mom has serious diarrhea (like choc milk) I did everything I could think of before taking her to the vet -also with advice from here. They had me stop feeding her for 24 hours and gave me 4 cans of prescription diet. She did not have one more runny stool, and began to pick up weight again.
I have wormed the pups and they have an appointment to get their first shots on wednesday. They are happy healthy puppies. It has been a lot of work and a lot of fun. I am still worried about my little one, he is mostly eating on his own now, due to his huge fat siblings pushing him away.
I know sometimes it seems like I might ask stupid questions, but it is not because I don't have a clue. There are a multitude of ways to handle a situation, and I do not necessarily think the vet is the answer to everything. Sometimes common sense and a few suggestions to help consider for a particular situation can keep mistakes from happening. Even vets need help with these small dogs. Our vets handle everything from birds to horses. We are in the country and do not have a vet who specializes in small dogs.
We appreciate your help more than you know. I wish we had computers when I had my children. Every bump I would call my neighbor (she was an occupational therapist - and constantly reminded me she was not a nurse or a doctor, but she was a mom, a friend and a neighbor.
Everyone starts somewhere. If I choose to continue to breed my dogs, I can assure you that they are top quality, blue and gold, AKC, lovely temperments with proper coloring and body size. My pups are lovely and good natured - they kiss and lay on their backs for me to pet them. They got their first baths today. They have a cage in my front livingroom where mom can hop in if she wants to check on them, but they cannot escape, unless I allow them to.
I hope I meet with your approval, but sometimes I do feel like you are a little tough on us. Respectfully submitted. |