What happens when a mother dog can’t care for her pups, died during childbirth, or can’t produce enough milk for them all? Often these puppies be become orphaned and are picked up by humane organizations.
If you are willing to work hard caring for a puppy, these new orphans can fill your heart with warmth. Be sure to begin with a visit to the vet so that he can get them started on all the right shots and feeding schedule.
It will be important to establish a regular schedule right away. Feedings, trips outside, sleeping, and training can be time-consuming but a regular schedule will pay off later.
Orphan puppies will not have started out with mother’s milk, so it will be especially important to listen to the vet’s advice on nutrition. Your new puppy will need to be nurtured and socialized to grow into a healthy adult dog.
Do you still think you have the time for a new puppy? If so, great! As long as you are considering all of the needs involved, you’ll make the best decision.
An orphaned puppy will need to start out with either bottle feeding or tube feeding. Bottle feeding is usually the best option. Tubes can be risky to the puppy, as the tube can move into the lungs and cause choking. When bottle feeding, avoid choking by feeding the pup while it is on its’ belly.
Remember not to give your puppy cow milk or goat milk. They must have a special formula, such as Esbilac or Puppylac. Also, do not ever give your puppy egg whites. Raw egg whites contain an enzyme that causes a deficiency of biotin in puppies. Honey must also be avoided as it is fatal to puppies.
For the first week, your new puppy will need between 60-69 calories per pound each day. You can increase this by 10 calories per pound each week, so that when the puppy is in week four he is consuming between 90 and 100 calories per pound.
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