Importance of Veterinary Care After Birth
It is important to have the mother and puppies examined by your veterinarian within forty-eight hours of birth. The veterinarian will check the mother to make sure there is no infection and that she is producing sufficient milk.
Medication for Parasitic Infections
Most veterinarians will agree that pyrantel is the best medication to use in the earliest phases of puppy or kittenhood. Safe enough for 2-week-old pediatric patients, this drug is used by most breeders and shelters to begin killing parasitic roundworms and hookworms.
Regular Veterinary Check-ups
You should take your dog to the vet at least once a year for their annual check-up and more often when they are a puppy or senior dog.
Taking Prompt Action After Birth
Call your vet for advice immediately if your dog is having trouble giving birth or has been straining for 20-30 minutes without producing a puppy – a delay could be the difference between life and death.
Monitoring Your Dog After Birth
Monitor your pup for two weeks to ensure she has no post-birth complications.
Post-Birth Reactions and Care
The mother dog exhibits post-birth behaviors like nesting, nursing, and training pups out of instinct to care for offspring.