Whelping is never an easy process. As dog owners, our scope of responsibilities starts from the time they were whelped, until the day they die. When is a time for us to look after our dams. These difficult times of whelping for our female dogs can be a great bonding experience.
Some breeds whelp effortlessly while others have a more difficult time during the birthing process. Some smaller toy breeds for example can at times require a c-section surgery.
We do ‘whatever is necessary’ for our dogs, vaccines, anti-rabies, and the like. Let’s keep in mind the other important to-do’s that are sometimes neglected during whelping. If you are a first-time owner of a pregnant dog, you should expect certain signs from her when the time comes for her to whelp. These tell-tale signs (if not all) are proven to be helpful:
The dam gets restless. Pants a lot, and the tendency to scratch corners (as though she is digging a hole) in your place is apparent. Just relax, whelping is not going to happen yet, and at this point of time she is experiencing one of the few signs of labor.
If you have a whelping box prepared, your dog might stay, and lay down there. Occasional whimpering may also be heard from her, and the best thing you can do is to keep your attention to her always.
One important thing to remember: it would help too if you have clean water ready for her. Remember, the whelping process is always a difficult time for the dam (no matter how mild, or serious it is for her).
The dam may also experience frequent urinating, or defecate – these are completely normal. Just give her all the space she needs, and extend your moral support on her during this time.
During whelping, some of these dogs dislike being touched at. Depending on the pain they are experiencing, they usually prefer being alone during whelping. However, if you see signs that your dog is really having a hard time, seek help by calling your veterinarian, or send her to the nearest vet clinic as soon as possible.
Make sure that the place for her to whelp IS clean, and comfortable. Even though canines are survivors by instinct, your dam will appreciate it more if you show how much you care not only for her, but for her litter, as well.
Whelping can be a joyful experience for anyone who loves dogs – with or without pedigree. We should always keep in mind that whelping is not always about the money.
This event is, in fact, a shared experience between the owner and the dam.
