“No matter how little money and how few possessions you own, having a dog makes you rich”

There is no love like puppy love

What to expect...

A new puppy, much like a new born baby, requires a lot of time, love and tenderness.

Due to the fragile and new immune system of a puppy, they are susceptible to some of below ailments:

Kennel cough-

INFECTIOUS TRACHEOBRONCHITIS

“Kennel cough” is an infectious bronchitis characterized by a harsh, hacking cough which most people describe as sounding like “something stuck in my dog’s throat.” It is analogous to a chest cold for humans and is only a serious condition in special circumstances (see below); in general, it resolves on its own. A dog with Kennel Cough generally feels active and maintains a normal appetite despite frequent fits of coughing. There is usually no fever or listlessness, just lots of coughing.

NOT SURE WHAT A COUGHING DOG SOUNDS LIKE?

Dogs can make an assortment of respiratory sounds. Usually a cough is very recognizable but it is important to be aware of another sound called a “reverse sneeze.” The reverse sneeze is often mistaken for a cough, for a choking fit, for sneezing, for retching, or even for gasping for breath. In fact, the reverse sneeze represents a post-nasal drip or “tickle in the throat.” It is considered normal especially for small dogs or dogs and only requires attention if it is felt to be “excessive.” The point here is to know a cough when you see one. A cough can be dry or “productive,” meaning it is followed by a gag, swallowing motion, production of foamy mucus (not to be confused with vomiting).

Low blood Sugar -

Hypoglycemia

When you look at these darling miniature puppies, think twice before you adopt. The toy breed puppy is frequently a high maintenance project.  This is not a living stuffed animal; this is a live creature with a handicap. You may need to feed this animal 4-6 times daily. Soft puppy foods are often needed as these puppies may not be able to eat hard food. They need extra warmth and rest to build strong immune systems.

Potentially, hypoglycemia is an emergency. The puppy will be listless maybe even uncoordinated. In an extreme case, the puppy will become cold, will lose consciousness and begin to have seizures.  For first aid, a small amount of Karo syrup can be rubbed on the gums. (It will absorb through the gums; actual swallowing is not necessary).

Scabies -

SARCOPTIC MANGE


Also called “scabies,” this mite infection is extremely itchy and contagious. While difficult to diagnose, this condition is usually easy to treat.

The above issues are common amongst new puppies and particularly in small breeds. Please take note and work with your breeders to proactively note and treat such sicknesses.