new mum

[luchiedog]

my jack russell had five puppies last week. mother and all pups are doing well but this weekend she as been acting so strange she seem to be searching for something and trying to scratch the carpet up and digging in my plant pots. shes just not settled any ideas what why shes doing this?

[jules77]

Have you been giving the mother calcium tablets, if not it could be early signs of Eclampsia.

She really needs to see a vet asap, as Eclampsia is a serious condition and can result in seizures if not treated.

[luchiedog]

hi jules77
yes i have been giving her them since shes had the pups

[jules77]

Does she have a discharge that may be foul smelling? I would get her checked out anyway as it could be a number of things. Let us know how she goes on.

[divegirl]

Although nervousness and shaking 'can' be an early sign of eclampsia, if she seems well within herself try not to worry too much. Also remember some discharge is normal for up to three weeks following the birth. I used to breed Yorkshire Terriers and the bitch would sometimes exhibit neurotic behaviour such as ripping up the bedding, my mentor had seen this happen before and told me not to worry too much....just make sure the whelping box was clean at all times....this seemed to calm my girl down.....and kill my washing machine!!!!! Be careful with Calcium supplements....they are not always easily absorbed by the bitch, if your worried though......Vets!!!!

Good luck

Lisa x

[luchiedog]

hi thanks for your advice. i took jess to the vets this afternoon they have kept her there for a few hours they are going to put her on a drip because with her being a little dog and having five pups she wasnt getting enough calcium by the amount i was giving her

[jules77]

An experienced breeder told me to give the bitch as many calcium tablets as they will take. She is in good hands now, and will hopefully be home with her babies soon.

[lankeela]

Well spotted jules. Bitches need additional calcium as soon as they start feeding the pups, but not before, as their body will not utilise its own supplies. Once the puppies start draining the bitch of calcium through taking the milk she can soon go downhill if not supplemented. Hope mum and pups are fine.

[luchiedog]

hi jess and pups are doing ok now we have started weaning the pups off her now and the vet as given us some stronger calcium tablets she now looks a lot brighter