[gardenyorkies]

Originally Posted by yorkielady06

As a nurse I want to state this not to criticize but from my education and from my 2 veterinarians. Dextrose solution should not be given subcutaneously.
"Fluids
Some of the most commonly used fluids that are administered subcutaneously include saline, Ringer's solution and Plasma-Lyte. Fluids with dextrose should not be administered in this manner.
Dextrose
Dextrose administered subcutaneously is painful and can cause infection and inflammation, or necrosis (deadening of the tissue) at the injection location."

I have many times given subq LR (lactated ringers) to newborn pups, especially to premature ones. I have a home incubator and oxygen concentrator for this and for the newborn that is having difficulty breathing or is raspy after birth with great success. Also, if done properly, tube feeding a newborn pup, sickly pup, or premature pup is the safest way to feed. The key is if done correctly. You should always underfeed a new pup until you know what they can take and so that they do not aspirate. A general rule taught to my by a few vets is 1 cc per ounce yet you should be safe with 1/2 that if using subq LR for the first day or 2. After that the feedings should be by mouth as soon as possible.

I also have a pump to collect colostrum from the bitch that can be made quite simply for anyone that would like to know. It also works great for early mastitis to prevent it from getting worse if you catch it in time to prevent the need for antibiotics which preferred when the bitch is nursing. I learned how to make these from an old mentor when I first started with Cocker Spaniels in the 80's, so I wanted to give her credit (Sylvia)