How to Care for a 2 Week Old Abandoned Puppy
There are several reasons that a puppy may need to be hand-raised by a person. The mother may die due to birthing complications or she may show no interest in caring for her litter. Some times there are more puppies than the mother is able to care for. No matter what the reason is for the abandonment, a two week old puppy must be properly fed and nurtured to ensure healthy growth and development. Caring for a newborn puppy is a time-consuming job, but your care will literally save the puppy's life.
Things You'll Need
- Heating pad
- Towels
- Bottle or dropper
- Cotton balls
- Warm water
- Puppy milk replacement
Instructions
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1
Make the puppy a warm bed by placing a heating pad in a box or plastic container and covering it with several towels. Check the area often to make sure that is has not become too hot.
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2
Feed the puppy a milk replacement formula. Use a puppy bottle or a dropper to feed the puppy at least four times a day. Dab a few drops of milk on the puppy's mouth so that it can adapt to the milk source. Feed the puppy slowly to prevent choking or stomach upset.The puppy will need to drink at least five milliliters at each feeding.
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3
Wipe the puppy's genital and anal area with a cotton ball that has been soaked in warm water. Perform this task after each feeding to stimulate urination and bowel movement. It is vital that the puppy void urine and excrement several times a day.
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4
Introduce the puppy to solid food when it is three to four weeks of age. Mix a teaspoon of canned food with milk replacement. Gradually add more canned food at feedings until the puppy gets accustomed to eating solid food.
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Tips & Warnings
Puppy milk replacement is sold at most pet and farm supply stores. A veterinarian will usually carry it as well.
Bring the bottle or dropper close to the puppy while feeding. Stretching the neck while feeding could lead to aspiration.
Do not be afraid to handle the puppy when it is not eating. Orphaned puppies will miss cuddling with litter mates so allow it to snuggle up with you whenever possible.
Watch small children and other animals carefully around the puppy. They are fragile and easy to smother or kill if mishandled.
A small puppy will gain weight rapidly so if no sign of growth is seen within a week or two of care, consult a veterinarian.
