Winter bedding for having pups?

tinymwoods · Post by **tinymwoods** » Wed Nov 07, 2007 7:08 pm

Just wondering what everyone thinks about what to use. She is due in Dec and may be cold. I use cedar during summer and winter but I am not going to put the chips in there and take a chance of pups choking. Any ideas are appreciated!

Earl Marshall · Post by **Earl Marshall** » Wed Nov 07, 2007 7:45 pm

I have 2 litters out in 2 diffrent puppy kennels and I put a piece of blanket over the door way then I staple a piece of blanket on the floor. That works for me pups are doing good with it.

Windkist · Post by **Windkist** » Wed Nov 07, 2007 9:35 pm

I would use something disposable for whelping such as newspaper or blankets. After she is all done you can use carpet remnants. I like them because you can throw them away after a few days and replace them and they keep the puppies warm. We use a heat lamp and heating pad as well. Cold and dehydration is the leading killer of puppies. Keep those babies warm!

Leah

tinymwoods · Post by **tinymwoods** » Wed Nov 07, 2007 9:40 pm

is newspaper and heat dangerous? Those heat lamps put off alot of heat. Ever had mom or pup chew on cord of pad? Thanks

Windkist · Post by **Windkist** » Wed Nov 07, 2007 10:21 pm

tinymwoods wrote:is newspaper and heat dangerous? Those heat lamps put off alot of heat. Ever had mom or pup chew on cord of pad? Thanks

I actually just use a 60watt lightbulb. You'd be surprised how much heat it puts off. I put the heating pad under something that the mom can't get to. I keep it on low and just put it on one end. Puppies will migrate towards it. You do have to be careful though. Puppies cannot regulate their body temperatures for about 2 weeks so, keeping them warm is very important. most of the time the dam does this but, remember she just gave birth and is tired and her body it trying to keep her warm too. Never hurts to help a little ;-)

leah