Quote:
Originally Posted by Mardelin  Woogieman,
I had a premature litter last August and by my calculations and the physical presentation of the pups they were approximately a week premature. One of the pups did not open it's eyes until day 21. Per my vet if calculating on when they should have been born, he was right on time.
As far as nursing them, and the pup is not gaining, it could very well be due to the supplement. The closests thing to mothers milk is Goat's milk (canned) mixed with equal parts of distilled water and a bit of Karo Syrup.
I feed with a canine preemie nipple attached to a syringe so that I can better monitor what is being fed and control the flow of milk. Also, giving the pup the needed sucking reflex needed. I've always allowed the pup to determine when they no longer want any more. They usually drop off to sleep, but I will burp them in between, allowing them to make room for a bit more. As long as the pup is warm and not crying, it is probably getting enough. As it gets stronger it will take in more milk and the feeding times will not be as close. By week 3 1/2 (maybe not in this case since the pup is preemie), they should be able to lap on their own. |
Mary, even with the pup I mentioned that was slow to gain, the eyes were open by 2 weeks. Just something I've never seen before (such a delay in opening). My little girl was tiny and was 5 weeks before making it to 6 ounces, and that was with using the goat's milk formula. I don't think I've ever fretted as much before as with this one but she finally took root. Never was a sickly baby...just ultra tiny.
I thought about mentioning the goat's milk formula but thought twice about recommending a change in such a small baby that's apparently doing well. I would be concerned about upsetting the applecart, though I agree about the goat's milk and it's very digestible. It's what I use and have had great results with it.
I think the OP said Honey is 4 weeks now but she sounds more like a newborn than anything. Very unusual case....at least I've never seen anything like this before.