Frequently Asked Questions ........

Q2) What are the common causes for infant mortality in newborn pups?

Ans : A first time mother may be a little careless about her pups. Pups have been known to get crushed under the dam (mother), and are sometimes unable to pass the meconium.


Pups must be kept warm, or else they will catch a chill and die. Inability to pass a motion is another common cause for death. This is generally helped by the mother licking the anus and gentiles of the pup, to activate it. Incase the mother does not do this, a sensitive person who is trusted by the mother, should gently stimulate these organs by using a wet cotton ball. Infections set in very fast, and it is very important to keep the place very clean. Death by starvation can also occur, if the mother is too weak to produce sufficient milk and feed the pups, or if the pups are too sickly to such the teats of the mother. It is best to consult a veterinarian if there are any complications.