Newborn Puppy Umbilical Cord Care Video Guide15

Congratulations on the arrival of your new furry friend! As a responsible dog parent, you'll want to ensure the well-being of your newborn puppy, and that includes proper umbilical cord care.

Understanding the Umbilical Cord's Function

The umbilical cord serves as a vital lifeline between the mother dog and her puppies during pregnancy. It carries nutrients, oxygen, and waste products to and from the developing fetuses.

Once the puppies are born, the umbilical cord is no longer needed and should be severed to prevent infection and complications.

Proper Umbilical Cord Severing

Materials you'll need:
Clean towel or gauze
Blunt-tipped scissors or string
Antiseptic solution (e.g., iodine or chlorhexidine)

Steps:1. Clean your hands and the surrounding area around the umbilical cord with an antiseptic solution.
2. Gently lift the puppy and hold it upright with its head down to promote blood flow away from the cord.
3. Locate a spot on the cord about 1-2 inches from the puppy's belly.
4. Clamp or tie the cord tightly at the designated spot using sterilized scissors or string.
5. Cut the cord about 1/2 inch beyond the tie to create a clean and disinfected end.
6. Apply a small amount of antiseptic solution to the cut end to prevent infection.

Post-Severing Care

After the umbilical cord is severed, it's important to monitor the area closely for any signs of infection or complications.

Here's what to look for:
Redness or swelling
Discharge or pus
Fever or lethargy
Loss of appetite

If you notice any of these symptoms, contact your veterinarian immediately as they may indicate an infection or underlying health issue.

To prevent infection, keep the umbilical area clean and dry. Gently dab the area with a clean towel or gauze and apply an antiseptic solution as needed.

The Drying Process

The umbilical cord should naturally dry up and fall off within 5-7 days. During this time, keep the area clean and minimize contact to promote healing.

Note: If the cord does not fall off within a week, consult your veterinarian as this may indicate a retained umbilical cord, which can lead to complications.

Conclusion

Proper umbilical cord care is essential for the health and well-being of newborn puppies. By following these steps and monitoring the area for any complications, you can ensure that your furry friend gets the best start in life.

2025-02-06

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