What supplies should I have ready for whelping?

Preparing for whelping, or the process of a dog giving birth, requires careful planning and gathering of essential supplies to ensure the safety and comfort of both the mother and her puppies. Below is a comprehensive guide to the supplies you should have ready, along with explanations, practical tips, and considerations.

1. Whelping Box
A whelping box is a safe, enclosed space where the mother can give birth and care for her puppies. It should be large enough for the mother to stretch out comfortably but with sides high enough to prevent puppies from wandering away. The box should have low edges for the mother to step over easily. Line the box with clean, soft bedding, such as towels or blankets, which can be easily washed or replaced.

2. Heating Source
Newborn puppies cannot regulate their body temperature and rely on external warmth. A heating pad or heat lamp placed near one side of the whelping box can provide a warm area. Ensure the heat source is not too hot and that the puppies can move away if they become too warm. A temperature of around 85-90°F (29-32°C) is ideal for the first week, gradually decreasing as the puppies grow.

3. Clean Towels and Blankets
Have plenty of clean, soft towels and blankets on hand. These will be used to dry the puppies after birth, clean the mother, and provide a comfortable surface in the whelping box. Replace soiled bedding promptly to maintain hygiene.

4. Disposable Gloves
Wearing disposable gloves during the whelping process helps maintain cleanliness and reduces the risk of infection. This is especially important if you need to assist the mother during delivery.

5. Sterile Scissors and Dental Floss
In some cases, you may need to cut the umbilical cord if the mother does not do so herself. Sterile scissors and dental floss (to tie off the cord) should be prepared in advance. Ensure the scissors are clean and sterilized to prevent infection.

6. Iodine Solution
After cutting the umbilical cord, dip the end in an iodine solution to disinfect it and prevent infection. This step is crucial for the health of the newborn puppies.

7. Scale for Weighing Puppies
A digital kitchen scale is useful for weighing the puppies daily to monitor their growth. Record their weights to ensure they are gaining appropriately. A lack of weight gain can indicate health issues that require attention.

8. Notebook and Pen
Keep a notebook to record the time of each puppy’s birth, their weight, and any observations about their health or behavior. This information can be valuable for your veterinarian if any issues arise.

9. Emergency Contact Information
Have your veterinarian’s contact information readily available, as well as the number for an emergency veterinary clinic. Whelping can sometimes involve complications, and quick access to professional help is essential.

10. Puppy Milk Replacer
In case the mother cannot produce enough milk or rejects a puppy, have a high-quality puppy milk replacer on hand. Feeding equipment, such as small bottles or syringes, should also be prepared.

11. Cleaning Supplies
Stock up on cleaning supplies, such as paper towels, disinfectant, and trash bags, to maintain a clean environment. Puppies are vulnerable to infections, so hygiene is critical.

12. Comfort Items for the Mother
Provide items that comfort the mother, such as her favorite blanket or toy. A calm and relaxed mother is more likely to have a smooth whelping process.

Potential Risks and Concerns
Whelping can sometimes involve complications, such as prolonged labor, a stuck puppy, or a mother who is too exhausted to care for her puppies. Be prepared to intervene if necessary, but always consult your veterinarian before taking action. Signs of trouble include the mother straining for more than 30 minutes without producing a puppy, excessive bleeding, or a puppy that appears stuck.

When to Seek Professional Help
If the mother shows signs of distress, such as extreme lethargy, vomiting, or refusal to nurse the puppies, contact your veterinarian immediately. Similarly, if a puppy appears weak, cold, or unresponsive, seek professional assistance.

Prevention and Long-Term Care
After whelping, monitor the mother and puppies closely. Ensure the mother is eating well and producing enough milk. Keep the whelping area clean and warm, and provide the mother with a high-quality diet to support her recovery and milk production. Schedule a veterinary check-up for the mother and puppies within a few days of birth to ensure everyone is healthy.

By preparing these supplies and being vigilant during the whelping process, you can help ensure a safe and successful delivery for the mother and her puppies.