[Mom2BabyNatalie]

I could tube feed her if I absolutely HAD to.... but I'm so afraid of hurting her.... I've had to do it before a few times - and didn't have any problems... but never with a baby of Emma's small size.

The thing is though, is that she doesn't seem hungry.... her belly is full after feedings and she is content - no crying - she just closes up her tiny mouth and when she's done... she's done!

I'd hate to tube feed her - - force feed her.... if what she's taking is really all she's able to handle.

Tracy - I know you're right about newborn skin babies... but in my experience, furbutts are a little different in that aspect. (at least the majority of the pups I've had) - - normally a newborn pup will nurse and thrive immediately - gaining each day....

I tend to agree with you on the time between feedings.... but since she is not sickly or weak - she is able to let me know when she needs to eat... so if I TRY to stretch the feedings out - but she starts showing me that she's not happy with that, I'll certainly go ahead and give her what she wants...
(I'm guessing this will only be the BEGINNING of giving this angel WHATEVER she wants!! haha!)

As for creating a den like atmosphere... thanks for that! And I'm sure you're right... but under the circumstances, I think our little set up is working for Emma.

I totally agree with you on quiet, dark, warm and den-like.... with a normal litter, that would be the most natural environment. But..... a normal litter, has a mama in there to tend to ALL of baby's needs.... littermates to snuggle with... really no need for "human intervention".... all of baby's needs are being met by her mom - who knows EXACTLY what to do....

THIS mom.... doesn't..... and if I can't SEE her.... I'm not comfortable.

Now I know.... it's not supposed to be about MY comfort.... but if I'm a crazed lunatic - then I can't be a very good Mommy.

As for dark..... I've been thinking about that actually..... because right now, she's blind and deaf.... but I have a heat lamp on her. With as much as she moves around, the warmers under the covers weren't doing much good... the heat lamp is working out beautifully, BUT - once she opens her eyes, we may have to figure something else out for that.... I'm sure she wouldn't be happy in constant light.... (it would bother her, wouldn't it??) - then again... if she doesn't know any better..... <<sigh>> (decisions, decisions) - - -

Anyway, I do thank you for sharing your experience though!