How to Help a Newborn Puppy

  Helping newborn puppies is another important task for many pet owners. Some people don't know how to handle newborn puppies. Some people don't know what equipment they need. So today, Talingchan Animal Hospital will tell many owners about the steps to help give birth to puppies and the equipment they need to prepare.

Equipment to prepare to help your dog give birth As follows

– A thin rope or strong thread

– Clean scissors

- alcohol

– Betadine

– Clean cloth

– Nasal aspirator for infants

Procedure for assisted birth

  1. Rip open the amniotic sac that encases the puppy.
  2. Remove the membranes that block the puppy's mouth and nose.
  3. Hold the puppy in a head-down position for 5-10 seconds (to allow fluids in the mouth and nose to drain due to gravity).

  4. Use a suction bulb to suck out the liquid from the puppy's mouth and nose. Squeeze the bulb to release the air before inserting it into the puppy's mouth and nose. Be careful not to insert the bulb too deep. Just insert it until it reaches the base of the tongue. Be careful not to use too much suction force as it can cause damage to the puppy's airway and affect its heartbeat.

  5. Stimulate the puppy to breathe. Rub the puppy with a towel, especially around the genitals and navel. Stimulate the back of the neck with your hands, and gently turn the puppy between your hands.
  6. Cut and tie the umbilical cord 

What to do if the puppy doesn't cry or breathe?

  1. Check to see if the puppy is breathing. The rate for newborn puppies is 10-18 breaths per minute. If the puppy is not breathing, blow into the puppy's nose and mouth at a rate of 2-4 breaths every 20-30 seconds.
  2. Check the puppy for a heartbeat. The heart rate for newborn dogs is 120 to 180 beats per minute. Place your thumb and forefinger on the puppy's chest at the back of its elbow. If no pulse is found, give a quick, gentle massage or press on the chest.

Information from:
Dr. Araya Prapanphot (Dr. Nun)
Department of Internal Medicine, Department of Surgery, Department of Cardiology

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