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Originally Posted by FlDebra  I agree that spaying this pregnant yorkie would not be recommended just because the owner was remiss in learning about breeding/whelping BEFORE her dogs mated. There is still time for a crash course and with careful liaison with the vet and hopefully finding a mentor, this could all have a good outcome.
Still there are SO many questions that are not answered and I worry for the answers. Are the dam and sire breeding quality? What sizes, ages, and health histories? Are they truly the best examples of the breed to be perpetuated? What are the circumstances of the breeding program? Curiosity? Making money? Or really trying to breed a better yorkie and make sure the qualities laid out in the breed standards are carried forward?
Here is one of the best sources online for info (besides Yorkietalk that is) Dog Breeding and Canine Reproduction by Debbie Jensen. Dog Breeding and Whelping guide for dog breeders. The video she sells would be a good investment but definately read all of the free info she has immediately. I would contact your nearest dog fanciers club or go to ytca.org and use their breeder referral function to find a yorkie breeder near you. Then I would beg to learn under their tutelege. If you found the breeder of your dogs knowledgable and ethical, you might try starting there. Finding someone who actually has a litter that they might let you witness being born would be a great help for you! But you can prepare yourself to help your girl by reading too. Read everything you can get your hands on. You owe it to your girl to be thoroughly prepared. They are not like a beagle or a lab -- they have been bred so small, many thing can and do go wrong. They need our help more often than not. The danger to the dam does not stop on delivery day either. You have to watch her very carefully afterwards. Many things to learn in a very short time. Good luck! Don't hesitate to ask you find a question about something you have read or experienced. Many good minds here to help! |
I use the temp chart for the final weeks and she has lots of information about the developmental stage of the puppy as it matures. Debra's advice is right on! The only thing outside of getting the help of your vet and an experienced mentor would be to read everything you can get your hands on. Yes some of it may be bogus but lots or research and reading makes you more informed and a critical thinker. Here is my phone number and email if you have questions and please read and start hammering us with questions so we can help you do this successfully. One thing we all agree on is that we want mom and puppies healthy, happy and safe. Debra is wonderful and demonstrates responsible and knowledge based information. Many of the long timers here really know their stuff and will go out of their way to help you on your path. My email and phone is
mbowens@cfl.rr.com and 321 254 9765. We will look out for your questions and work with you. Take care, Mary