Paddy recently had puppies and during our pre-whelp vet consultation, our vet gave a rundown on the possibility of cleft pallets. He really felt a puppy with that birth defect had an uphill battle so it would be better to put them down. As Oscar's Mom mention, our vet said even if you can get the pup to eat enough to grow, the threat of pneumonia is so great because of the reflux (or something like that). He did say though that if you can get them to a certain age (like 10 months or so) that they may be big and strong enough to survive reconstruction surgery.
Just hearing about it was heartbreaking when you get the little pups full term then born and then faced with such a tough decision. I feel so bad for you and the puppy. Poor little guy. Good luck with your decision!
__________________ Kim, Kensington & Paddington - We miss Wimbley (1990-2001)  Fenley, Scully & Barkley born 3/2/06 Pictures of my yorkies |