Quote:
Originally Posted by chrislynn5  as soon as you start breeding you need to put your female on calcuim and puppy food. |
This actually may not be a good idea. There are several threads on YT and breeders and vets who say you should not give calcium before whelping as it could cause eclampsia. Once the pups are born you then give the dam some calcium. Giving calcium before whelp can actually stop your bitch from making her own calcium naturally, then she can be very pre-disposed to eclampsia issues. If you do give her calcium, I would only give her a very small amount. Puppy food itself should have enough calcium in it.
Puppy food is a great idea, they need the extra nutrition, so once they are bred start her on a good quality puppy food.
Here are some things I like to keep handy for an upcoming pregnancy....
Whelping box
Scale to weigh puppies in, it needs to measure in lbs and ounces.
Thermometer
Stethoscope
Towels
Gloves
Blankets
Nose Aspirator/bulb syringe that is for babies
Umbilical cord scissors
KY jelly/lubricant
Hemostats or dental floss for tying off umbilical cord
Puppy milk replacer
Puppy nursing kit with bottles, make sure the nipples are really small
Nutri drops to help keep mom's energy up and for a new born pup who made need the boost
BeneBac Gel to give to a fading puppy and to help mom out
Feeding syringe and feeding tube
Iodine prep pads
Alcohol prep pads
Heating source, I use Snuggle Safe, a disc you put in the microwave that stays warm for several hours
Pen and paper to record weights of puppies
Cottage cheese or vanilla ice cream to give to mom after whelp
Pedialyte for mom to keep her hydrated
Vet's number on hand
It seems like a lot of stuff to have on hand but I like to be prepared for any situation and you never know when you will need it.
Hope this helps some!!
