Biston Terrier Open fontanelle

Question
Our vet said this was a serious birth defect in our 9 week old male and not to breed. No problem with that but what about water on the brain, seizures, injuries, wil it ever grow? how about supplements?  We knew about the problem when we bought him and were not deceived at all but thought it would grow in normally , and that he'd be a little slow which is fine because of other Boston is compulsive neurotic for fetching.

Answer
Hi Dorothy,

Sorry to hear about your new boy. Sadly, not many live beyond 6 months. One of the biggest problems for them is their equilibrium will worsen as they get older. The fluid presses on a growing brain and by 6 months, give or take a couple, they cannot maintain any balance. A bump on the head from walking into something gives added pressure on the brain and a hard bump adds it own swelling to the cause. Without expensive and ongoing medical care to TRY to drain some fluid, the procedure itself will cause swelling and is not a cure, the pup will die from brain trauma.
If you haven't, and I know this is not likely, bonded irretrievably with the pup, you might want to return him to the breeder. A good breeder will refund due to birth defect.
I wish I knew if you were close. I know of a 3 month old boston male in Illinois just begging for a new home.
Best of luck to you in whatever you choose. And remember, it will be much harder down the road to let go than it is now.