dog having puppies

Question
my lab is having puppies the end of march. what type of bedding is needed for her when she gives birth?

Answer
Hi Jean.  Some people like to use a child swimming pool - plastic type as a whelping box.  The sides are low enough for the mommy to easily get in and out, but high enough to keep the new puppies safely inside.  The plastic is easy to clean and disinfect and can be stored under the bed when not in use.

Inside the pool you will want to have lots of clean towels.  Last years beach towels work great.  They can be tossed in the washing machine with bleach for easy cleaning and don't cost anything.

What ever you use for a whelping box - swimming pool, play pen, etc. be sure to cover the bottom with absorbent materials.  Puppies that are kept on slick surfaces are unable to get traction and move around.  This inability to move can lead to under developed leg muscles and a condition known as swimmers puppy.  

Good luck, and please do not hesitate to contact me if you have additional questions.  I'm sorry for the delay in replying to your question.  I am having a new floor installed in my home and the darn contractors keep disconnecting my internet cable and my phone lines (ugh).

Sincerely,
Penny DiLoreto
www.puppies-dot-com.com