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Hidden Hills Animal Hospital

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Small Companion & Exotic Pets

404-296-3400
Post-natal Care of the Bitch(mother-dog)
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Hidden Hills Animal Hospital Small Animals & Exotics



4899 Redan Road Stone Mountain, GA 30088


(404) 296-3400


Dr. Paul E. Norwood




       

POST-NATAL CARE OF THE BITCH

Pregnancy is a major stress to your pet. Things then get worse after delivery because as the offspring grow, the female is required to produce more milk to nurse the puppies.

The following procedures are recommended to insure the health of both mother and offspring:

1. The mother and offspring should be brought to the office for a post-birth physical examination, hormone injection to contract the uterus, and possible uterine infusion within 24 hours after delivery.

We will be happy to answer any questions you may have at that time.

2. Fresh, clean water should be available at all times.

3. We recommend feeding a "puppy food" to dogs because of the higher protein level.

  • Mothers should be fed all they want to eat-remember they are eating for several mouths.

4. Try to keep the "new family" in quiet surroundings and avoid all commotion possible for the first two weeks. Excitement causes many of the problems we see in both the female and offspring. Allow the female to get exercise as she desires.

5. Females often develop soft "stools" for a few days due to the diet changes, vaginal discharges, and "cleaning the offspring:

6. Palpate the breasts and observe nipples daily. Wash with warm water if needed.

  • Notify the clinic of any discoloration of the skin, tenderness, or severe engorgement that occurs. Watch for sores on the nipples as the pups begin to get teeth.

7. A vaginal discharge and the passage of blood clots is to be expected for a few days.

  • Notify the clinic if it should persist MORE than seven days.

8. Notify the clinic if the female has a change of disposition or if nervousness or tremors develop.

9. A bath is recommended regularly during the nursing period.

Daily brushing is important for proper sanitation. Notify the clinic if you begin to see a significant loss of hair, or "bald spots.?

10. Some weight loss is to be expected, but consult us if the pet becomes thin.

  • Routine fecal examinations should be performed to guard against intestinal parasites, especially those that could be passed on to the offspring. Feed puppy food because of its higher nutritional content.

11. If you decide to spay your pet to avoid future "heat cycles" and pregnancy, we feel the best time is about 1 month AFTER the offspring are weaned. This gives the breast time to stop milk flow. HOWEVER, we CAN spay the pet at ANY TIME YOU DESIRE.

12. In the dog, expect to see a normal "heat cycle about six months after the cycle on which the dog was bred.

13. Food quantity to the female should be reduced at weaning to help decrease milk flow.

  • Sometimes antibiotics are required if the breasts are engorged to prevent breast infections.
 
 
Stone Mountain Veterinary is a certified Veterinary specializing in Post-natal Care of the Bitch(mother-dog), pet hospital, vet clinic, emergency vet and much more in Stone Mountain, . We also do Welcome, Cat Vaccinations, Dog Vaccinations, Routine Preventative Care, Comprehensive Physical Exam, Surgical Procedures, On Site Lab Services, Emergency Medical Care, Dental Cleaning, Flea And Tick Prevention, Grooming Services, Boarding Services, Nutrition Counseling, Behavior Counseling, Prescription Diets , Radiology, Microchip Idenification and all work related in the 30088 area and surrounding areas in Stone Mountain