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Keke

Pixxie just had puppies and they were 8 days early. She didn't nurse them for the first 8 hrs.idk if she ever did. I think because the environment we were in she was nervous and scared. She kept trying to take the babies away and go hide them and bury them in blankets. Now Pixxie hasn't produced milk and tears are enlarged and hard

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Pixxie
Dog, Chihuahua
1 year 8 months, Female
Issue details
Main concern
Others
Duration
2 day(s)
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Dr. Frank
Dr.Tail Vet

It sounds like Pixxie is facing some challenges with nursing and milk production, which can indeed be stressful for both her and her puppies. Let's go through a few steps you might consider to help her:

Firstly, it's important to provide Pixxie with a calm and comfortable environment. Ensuring she has a quiet and safe space can significantly reduce her anxiety, encouraging her to care for her puppies more effectively.

To stimulate milk production, you might gently guide the puppies to Pixxie's teats. Often, the act of nursing can help trigger milk flow, which is beneficial for both Pixxie and her puppies.

Given that Pixxie's teats are enlarged and hard, it's crucial to check for signs of mastitis, which is an infection of the mammary glands. Look for symptoms such as redness, warmth, or discharge. If you suspect mastitis, addressing it promptly is essential.

Additionally, make sure Pixxie is well-hydrated and receiving a nutritious diet. Nursing mothers require extra calories and fluids to support milk production, so her diet should reflect these needs.

If Pixxie isn't producing enough milk, you may need to consider supplemental feeding with a puppy milk replacer. This ensures the puppies receive the necessary nutrients for healthy growth.

Lastly, monitor the puppies closely. They should be gaining weight steadily and appear active and content. If you notice any issues or if Pixxie's condition doesn't improve, consulting a veterinarian would be a wise step. They can provide specific guidance and support to ensure the health of both Pixxie and her puppies.

If you have any further questions or need additional assistance, please feel free to ask. Thank you.