Estimated whelping day is one week from today ! Over the last week I've been doing more reading and note taking on the actual birthing process - mainly so I know what's normal and what's not. I've found a really good book "The Complete Book of Dog Breeding" by Dan Rice (see links section for shortcut to amazon). I realy like the author's approach to the process - minimal intervention !
The Whelping chapter starts with the author saying "I don't subscribe to the concept and practice of taking over the dam's responsibilities. I believe it reduces natural, instinctive canine maternal behaviour.......our help should be reserved for those times when a puppy or the dam is at risk". Well said Dan :)
The following chapter covers difficult births (Dystocia) and once again ends with a great summary that I've decided will be my mantra through the whelping process
"Problems are often created by overzealous or radical actions. It is important not to offer assistance until you are sure it is needed. Once a decision to intercede is made, your assistance should be as quick and efficient as possible. Have a good idea of what you are going to do, do it, and get back into the audience. Use common sense and moderation."
Great advice I believe. I used this book and the "Breeding a litter" by J.M Evans (co-author of Book of the Bitch) to compile a summary of each stage of the labour and what constitutes the need to get involved. I'll type up my notes over the next few posts.
Costs since last post : Thermometers (one for the room and one for Jess) £12, Picket fencing for the garden (not going to be needing this for a few weeks but Argos had a special :) £20, Vet bedding (a monster roll 1.5m x 5m of basic vet bedding) £33
Eight people on the waiting list now so with our pup, that's nine accounted for - lets hope Jess has enough to give everyone what they're looking for !
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