Series 1, Ep 8 - Podcast Show Notes

Puppy Power-Up: Mastering Hand-Rearing and Tube Feeding Techniques

In this heartfelt episode, we delve into the intricacies of caring for newborns, emphasising the importance of a strong start in life and addressing common congenital conditions.

Sara challenges the notion of the "runt of the litter", shedding light on the prevalence of puppy abnormalities. Isobel shares how folic acid supplementation can reduce the risk of cleft palate by 48% and the ethical considerations surrounding the treatment of cleft puppies at birth.

Explore the nuances of fading puppy syndrome whilst gaining insight into the challenges of supplement feeding. Learn about hydration over milk feed—practical tips for managing water-to-milk ratios and feeding quantities. The complexities of caring for large litters, including rotation strategies, will also be discussed. 

Discover our favourite milk formulas and feeding methods, from old-school methods to innovative tools like miracle nipples and silicone puppy feeders. Learn why reinvesting in new equipment and paying attention to detail is crucial for success.

Whether you're a seasoned breeder or a newcomer to puppy care, this episode of Breeders Brew is filled with invaluable insights and practical advice to help you navigate the challenges of raising healthy, happy puppies from the beginning.

​PODCAST TAKEAWAYS

• Supplement Feeding Basics
  • Begin with hydration fluid containing electrolytes, gradually increasing the milk ratio as the puppy's condition improves.
  • Offer small, frequent feeds to prevent overloading the puppy's tiny stomach and prioritise hydration over large milk meals.

 

• Tube Feeding
  • Tube feeding allows for precise fluid control and benefits very weak puppies.
  • Proper measurement of tube length for each puppy ensures safe and effective administration. Feeding lying flat helps prevent aspiration.

 

• Equipment/Supplies
  • Before breeding, it's essential to have necessary supplies such as tube feeding kits, milk replacers, and miracle nipples on hand.
  • Reinvesting profits into quality equipment is crucial for ensuring the health and well-being of the puppies.

 

• Cleft Palates
  • Folic acid supplementation is critical for healthy neural development and reducing the risk of cleft palates.
  • Dosing should be tailored based on breed size, as any breed can be susceptible to cleft palates, with brachycephalic breeds at higher risk.

 

• Passionate Puppy Practitioner Recommendations
  • CNC Folic Acid
  • Tube feeding Demo

 

• Don’t forget!
  • Share your personal experiences with us inside the Breeders Brew Community. Register your interest by www.breedersbrew.com/s1.htmldownloading your free Breeders Brew Critical Care Sheet!

Thank you for joining us for another informative episode! Stay tuned for more valuable discussions on dog breeding and wellbeing. Feel free to share your feedback and experiences with us inside the Breeders Brew Community!