Things You'll Need:
- preemie or puppy baby bottle
- special puppy infant formula (pet supply store, drug store)
- hot water bottle
- blanket
- ticking clock
- fierce determination
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Step 1
Prepare puppy formula as directed on the container. Put it in a clean bottle. Lay the puppy on its belly, cradling it in your arms and offer the nipple. The puppy should root and suck on its own. If it does not, or if the mother has pushed it away, tried to eat it or has otherwise become aggressive or indifferent toward the puppy there may be something physically wrong with it. It is possible that it may not survive even if you can get it to eat. Its sad, but it is better to be prepared for that just in case.
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Step 2
Feed the puppy every 2 to 3 hours, night and day. The feedings will increase in volume and decrease in frequency as the weeks go by. At 5 to 6 weeks, the puppy should be able to start eating soft foods. Use a warm wet washcloth to wash the puppy's eye, nose, and mouth area a couple of times a day, as well as keeping their bottom clean in the same fashion.
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Step 3
Keep him/her warm between feedings with the blanket and water bottle. Puppies have a hard time keeping their body temperature up, so the hot water bottle will give warmth as well as comfort. Don't use a heating pad, because it can easily get too hot and cause a burn. Add a ticking clock to the puppy's bed to simulate the mother's heartbeat and it will be comforting to them. Sometimes a small stuffed animal to cuddle up to will comfort a puppy as well.
Comments
painthorse42 said
on 12/10/2008 Aww - Thank you! 5*
ljstraight said
on 12/4/2008 Thanks for this thoughtful article. 5 stars