What should I do if the mother dog is rejecting one of her puppies?
1. Assess the situation: First, observe the mother and the rejected puppy closely. Look for signs of rejection, such as the mother pushing the puppy away, refusing to nurse it, or showing aggression toward it. Also, check the puppy for any visible health issues, such as low birth weight, deformities, or signs of illness.
2. Check the puppy's health: A common reason for rejection is that the puppy may be weak or unhealthy. Examine the puppy for any abnormalities, such as difficulty breathing, lethargy, or a lack of appetite. If you suspect the puppy is unwell, consult a veterinarian immediately. Early medical intervention can be crucial for the puppy's survival.
3. Provide warmth: Rejected puppies are often at risk of hypothermia because they are not receiving the warmth and care from their mother. Use a heating pad or a warm water bottle wrapped in a towel to keep the puppy warm. Ensure the heat source is not too hot, as this can cause burns. The ideal temperature for newborn puppies is around 85-90 degrees Fahrenheit for the first week.
4. Hand-rear the puppy: If the mother continues to reject the puppy, you will need to step in and hand-rear it. This involves feeding the puppy with a milk replacer specifically formulated for puppies. Use a small bottle or syringe to feed the puppy every 2-3 hours, including during the night. Be careful not to overfeed, as this can lead to aspiration pneumonia.
5. Stimulate elimination: Newborn puppies cannot urinate or defecate on their own and rely on their mother to stimulate these functions by licking them. If the mother is not doing this, you will need to gently massage the puppy's genital area with a warm, damp cloth after each feeding to encourage elimination.
6. Monitor weight and growth: Keep a close eye on the puppy's weight and growth. A healthy puppy should gain weight steadily. Weigh the puppy daily using a digital scale and record the results. If the puppy is not gaining weight or shows signs of failure to thrive, seek veterinary advice.
7. Reintroduce the puppy to the mother: In some cases, the mother may eventually accept the puppy if it becomes stronger and healthier. Try reintroducing the puppy to the mother after a few days of hand-rearing. Supervise the interaction closely to ensure the mother does not harm the puppy.
8. Address the mother's stress: Maternal rejection can sometimes be due to stress or inexperience in the mother. Ensure the mother has a quiet, comfortable, and safe environment to care for her puppies. Minimize disturbances and provide plenty of food and water. If the mother is a first-time mother, she may need time to adjust to her new role.
9. Seek professional help: If the mother continues to reject the puppy despite your efforts, or if the puppy's health deteriorates, consult a veterinarian or a professional breeder for assistance. They can provide additional guidance and support, and may recommend alternative care options, such as fostering the puppy with another lactating dog.
10. Long-term care: If the puppy survives the initial rejection period, continue to provide it with proper nutrition, socialization, and veterinary care. Hand-reared puppies may require extra attention to ensure they develop normally and form healthy bonds with humans and other dogs.
In summary, maternal rejection in dogs is a serious issue that requires prompt and careful intervention. By assessing the situation, providing warmth and nutrition, and seeking professional help when needed, you can give the rejected puppy the best chance of survival and a healthy life. Always prioritize the well-being of both the mother and her puppies, and do not hesitate to seek expert advice if you are unsure how to proceed.
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