Congratulations on your new litter. I am sorry you lost one of them. It is normal for new mommas to do some panting after having puppies. You do need to monitor her temperature closely for the first week because of the possibility of her developing a uterus infection. Did you take her to the vet for a cleanout shot? That is usually recommended, especially if you did not see all the placentas pass. When the pups suckle that will stimulate the uterus to continue to contract and as the bitch produces milk that will raise her body temperature and make her pant more. You want the pups to keep warm but you do not want the room temperature too hot because if the momma get too hot then that will slow down her milk production. I recommend a heating pad that will just cover half the whelping box. Good luck with your babies. |