I always do recommend C-sections to save a placenta to wipe the babies down with. Don't know if butter would be the same since I think it is more identifying her own smell that let's her know they are hers, but just the stimulation of licking might be good for the puppies.
Don't rush the supplementing - I only would give glucose water for the first 48 hours and encourage nursing from Mom - supervised of course and holding her if necessary. Like someone already mentioned this will activate her hormones and make her more maternal. Be on the look out for any aggression towards the pups and, if you see any, do not leave them unattended at all.
Glucose water:
5% glucose solution by mixing one teaspoon white corn syrup with a few grains each of sodium chloride (table salt) and potassium chloride (salt substitute) with four tablespoons boiled water. This resembles a Ringer’s glucose-sale fluid but, of course, cannot be used for subcutaneous or intravenous injection because it is not sterile. |