The American Beagler Forum

my bitch had 11 pups. two days later her breast became very firm. she was taken to vet and treated for mastitas. is it common for mastitas to hit that soon? the pups are 3 days old now, and been bottle fead with replacement milk. (just born). after her breast return to normal, can i give the pups back to her?

The mom should still be feeding the pups . The pups by nursing will help remove the blockage in the milk duct.

I also often recommend the pups be left on the dam to keep the glands sucked down dependent upon the type of bacteria present and the antibiotic used. Best to consult with your veterinarian on the safety of putting the pups back on the bitch.
Doc S