Library
-
These notes are provided to help you understand the diagnosis or possible diagnosis of cancer in your pet. For general information on cancer in pets ask for our handout "What is…
-
Mammary neoplasia (breast cancer) is very common in the bitch. Its frequency is only second to skin cancer. Both benign and malignant forms occur but sixty percent of mammary lumps in the…
-
Many owners want to breed in order to keep a puppy irrespective of the sex, breed or type of pet.Others, often first time owners, acquire a bitch having made a definite decision that in the…
-
Puberty, or sexual maturity in the bitch, usually occurs around six months of age although this varies. The smaller breeds tend to mature earlier and some bitches can have their first heat…
-
Pregnancy, also known as the gestation period, normally ranges from 57-65 days with an average of 63 days.The date of mating should be carefully recorded. If there are two matings, make a note…
-
From the time of mating many bitches show behavioural changes, often becoming more affectionate. However some become uncharacteristically irritable. Some bitches do experience a few days of…
-
Although the majority of bitches will whelp without the need for assistance, problems can arise which require veterinary attention. It is for this reason that we ask you to telephone us when…
-
If whelping appears to have finished clean up the bitch as much as possible without upsetting her. Remove any of the very soiled newspaper, bedding, etc. The bitch will spend most of her time…
-
During the first three weeks of life puppies require little care from the owner provided the bitch is competent. They are born with their eyes closed but these open after 7-14 days. If any…
-
Puppies should not go to new homes under the age of six weeks, except in special circumstances. From the point of view of socialisation and bonding the sooner the puppy goes to a new home the…