BROOD BITCH 



the bitch will not be disturbed by other dogs, and if it 

 opens on to a sunny yard where the puppies can be let 

 run when they are strong enough so much the better. 

 Previous to the time of whelping the bitch will be all the 

 better for a little addition to her food, and she should be 

 allowed a reasonable amount of exercise every day. 



The day before she is due to whelp a dose of sweet-oil 

 or of glycerine may be given to the bitch, and a plentiful 

 supply of clean straw may be placed on her bench on the 

 floor, so that she can prepare the bed for the expected 

 young. This she will do by turning round and round until 

 a circular nest is formed, with all the straw removed from 

 the bottom of it, so that the puppies actually lie on the 

 boards, this being no doubt an arrangement of nature to 

 facilitate cleansing operations. It moreover proves the 

 necessity of having a wooden floor beneath the puppies, as 

 stonework of any kind would be too cold for them. 



Provided that all is proceeding as it should, the less the 

 bitch is interfered with at the time of labour the better ; but 

 she must be watched in case complications occur, in which 

 event professional assistance should be secured by the 

 amateur. A clean trough of fresh cold water should be 

 within easy reach of her, and when her troubles are over 

 she should be supplied with properly cooked gruel at 

 frequent intervals. If there are any dead puppies they 

 should be removed, this being a task of some difficulty, as 

 the mothers often resent the act, and there is always a 

 chance of an irritable bitch destroying her young if she is 

 not left quiet for a few days after they are born. 



The above suggestions as to the management of the 

 brood bitch will meet any ordinary case, but it may be 

 pointed out that there are always chances of complications 

 arising which may lead to the loss of the bitch or her 

 puppies. Therefore, if there are any signs of difficulty, the 

 inexperienced owner should at once seek advice, profes- 

 sional if possible, if not that of some practical person. 

 (See Breedings Puppies^ Selecting a Stud Dog, Weaning.) 



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