Welcoming a new litter of puppies into the world is a wonderful experience for anyone, but it also requires careful preparation and planning. Here at Avonmeadow Supplies, we understand the importance of ensuring a smooth and successful whelping process. We want to help you prepare for a successful whelping! Georgia has pulled together a list of her top tips to help anyone breeding from their dog prepare effectively.
“I have whelped many litters of my own dogs over the years that I have a good understanding of how to make the process as smooth and stress free as possible. I have created a list of my 6 top tips to help you ensure you are fully prepared for whelping and the puppy stage.
1. Scanning your Bitch for Tailored Care
Knowledge is power, especially when it comes to caring for your pregnant bitch. By having your bitch scanned it means you understand the number of puppies she's carrying, and a due date can be pinpointed. You can adjust feeding and care plans accordingly. I recommend this proactive approach to ensure each puppy and your expectant mum receives the optimal level of nutrition and attention. I am proud to offer canine ultrasound scanning in Worcestershire, Gloucestershire, and Herefordshire. I come to you so your bitch can be scanned in their own environment ensuring a stress free and calm process. Scanning starts from £45 and is a super worthwhile process. Why not book us in now – send us an enquiry?
2. Comfort and Security with Whelping Boxes
Creating a comfortable and secure environment for your bitch and her litter is essential for a stress-free whelping experience. This allows them to nest and prepare safely and securely, I aim to get this set up just over a week before due date. I am pleased to offer a range of premium whelping boxes designed to provide the perfect safe nesting space for your expectant mother. Why not take the hassle out of preparation and hire one of our high-quality whelping boxes? Click here to fill out an enquiry form!
3. Prepare for the Unexpected
While most whelping’s go without a hitch, it's crucial to be prepared for any complications. I advise you to identify your vets out-of-hours contact information and procedure as many expectant mum’s do decide to whelp at night. You probably won’t need them, but it is better to be safe and have it ready! I would also create a plan of how you are going to get to the vets practice quickly if needed. Make sure you know how to safely get mum and any puppies there safely. It sounds silly but ensure your car fuelled and ready to go in case you need it; you don’t want to be diverting to the petrol station on route!
4. Keep a Watchful Eye
During the period leading up to the expected whelping date, it's important to remain vigilant and attentive to your bitches needs. I recommend not making any significant plans during this time, allowing you to focus entirely on the impending arrival of the puppies. I set up a camera to keep watch when I do have to nip out so I can keep a close eye on them. Once whelping time comes, I like to be close by to ensure everything is going smoothly. This means I can keep a close eye on her whelping and notice any worrying signs. I write down arrival times of puppies, so I know how long it has been since the last puppy, this way I know if one is taking a bit longer than normal and I need to be extra watchful.
5. Puppy Identification
Once the puppies are born, keeping track of each individual one becomes crucial for monitoring their health and development. I stock some beautiful new soft ID collars that provide a simple and effective solution. These collars allow you to easily identify each puppy and keep records of their weight and care. This also means the right puppy is going to the right home. They are super useful and soft to slip on just after they are born – why not shop our new ID collars here.
6. Milk Feeding and Transitioning to Solids
My key piece of equipment to have on hand ready for when they puppies arrive is our new sponge feeding syringe. Very occasionally you may need to step in and feed a puppy. Our syringes have been specially developed to ensure the flow of milk is controlled and the soft sponge is attractive and comfortable for puppies to suckle on. I have found this a lifesaving piece of equipment in the past so really wanted to offer this to my customers! Make sure you shop the syringe here.
As the puppies grow, it's essential to start thinking about their transition to solid foods. I have specially formulated puppy foods that are designed to meet all their nutritional needs, ensuring a smooth and healthy weaning process. Check out our Avonmeadow puppy food range here. Alternatively need some advice on which one is best for your litter. Just drop me a message I would be happy to help.
Most importantly this is just a guide, and I am not veterinary trained. If you're ever unsure about any aspect of the whelping process, don't hesitate to seek advice from your local vets.
Though following these top tips, you can feel more confident and prepared for the whelping journey ahead. With our tried and tested products and knowledgeable advice, we're here to support you every step of the way. Please feel free to drop me a message if you need any further advice on how to prepare for whelping, I would be happy to advise you!”
Georgia x
Thanks for the great tips! They are super useful to know!