FAQ: Puppy Care Tips
Congratulations on your new family member! We are pleased and honored that you have chosen to adopt a rescue puppy from us for what we feel will be one of the most important choices of your life. We know that in all the excitement of getting your new puppy, you may have overlooked some of the important points to insure your new puppy has a long, healthy and happy life. Here are some pointers to help you out!
The Ride Home
Puppies may become car sick during the first couple of trips. Consider taking another person along to hold your new puppy. Your passenger should wear a seatbelt and open the window about 3" to 4" from the top. Constantly, but slowly rub the underneath of the puppy's neck. This proves to be effective 98% of the time. Take a towel along just in case your puppy does get sick. Upon your arrival home you can do any needed clean up. Give your puppy about 45 minutes to an hour to settle down - his tummy will do just fine.
Things You Might Experience the First Few days
Nervousness or change in diet may cause diarrhea. If it lasts more than 2 days please contact a veterinarian.
Not eating for the first day and a half - that can happen. Things are different for him. In our care puppies generally do what other puppies do; when one eats, they all eat. The adjustment period should last a day or so.
NOTE: This does not pertain to small breeds such as Chihuahuas, Yorkies, Maltese, and Toy Poodles. If your puppy refuses to eat after a day and a half, please call All 4 Animals Rescue, Inc. We will have some good suggestions.
After putting your puppy down for the first time, he may just stand there in fright. Back away and talk soothingly to him. Reassure him by saying "good puppy, nice puppy" Whistle very softly and your new puppy will come over for a sniff. When he comes over, pet him gently. The puppy will be fine in time.
Symptoms and Signs To Be Aware Of
Bright Red Blood
- mixed in with the stool - Generally this is the case of Cocidia. The blood may also be due to the broken vessels when a puppy poops. Whether the blood is due to Cocidia or to the puppy straining, it is advisable to consult a veterinarian.
Worms in His/Her Stool There are many types of worms that your puppy may have. The most common types are tapeworms (look like small grains of rice) and roundworms (look like strands of spaghetti). Should you see worms, don't be too alarmed. Take a stool sample to your veterinarian and the puppy will receive worming medication. Worms take several weeks to get rid of, so be sure to keep puppy away from his own and other dog's poop. Even if the puppy does not show any visible signs of worms, it is recommended that you take a stool sample to the vet within 14 days after the adoption of the puppy.
Kennel Cough symptom are a dry hacking cough and shortness of breath. Kennel cough is quite common, almost as common as the human cold. It is caused by a combination of stress and temperature variations. Although the cough may sound threatening, it is treatable with medicine. Consult your vet if your puppy shows signs of kennel cough. NOTE: kennel cough can remain in a puppy's system anywhere from 5 days to several weeks.
Hypoglycemia symptoms of hypoglycemia are white gums, rolled up eyes, inability to stand up straight and seizures. The small breeds can get hypoglycemia overnight. Small breeds are very fragile, and can get sick quite easily, especially if they stop eating. It is important to give small breeds at least 3 to 5 feedings every day. This will insure that the puppy will receive a steady stream of nutrients. Hypoglycemia occurs when puppies get stressed out and their blood sugar level drops below normal. Should your puppy become hyperglycemic, a quick dose of Nutrical or honey will put the blood sugar level back to normal. Place the puppy in a warm place and quickly consult a veterinarian.
Precautionary Measures for Small Breeds
- Make sure that you are not constantly handling the puppy or passing it around from hand to hand. In the beginning, give the puppy time to rest.
- Make sure for the first month that you keep honey in the puppy's water at all times.
- Your new puppy should have at least 3 to 5 feedings during the course of a 12 hour day. NOTE: make sure your puppy eats when you place the food in front of him.
- Most importantly, use Nutrical at least 3 to 4 times a day for the first two weeks. This will make sure that your puppy is getting the much needed sugar and nutrients.
Closing Note
Remember it doesn't matter if your puppy is a tiny Yorkie or a sturdy Rottweiler. The puppy is extremely fragile and must be kept safe. Do not roughhouse with the puppy. Be very cautious when you take the puppy outside. Keep the puppy away from public parks where dogs defecate - until the puppy is fully vaccinated. Do not let your puppy come into contact with another dog unless you know that dog is fully vaccinated. Do not take your puppy near wooded areas where raccoons or squirrels may live. Your puppy may catch the rabies virus if a wild animal bites him. Make sure that your puppy is given his rabies vaccination and all other vaccinations when they are due.
Most Importantly
Your new puppy is yours! Be very careful in the decisions you make for your new puppy - and your puppy will grow up to be your best friend.