puppies at birth

Question
My girl delivered 5 puppies on day 58. She is a great mother so far. They were born from 4.83 ounces to 6. ounces and each one is gaining on day two. My question is being that it is soo hot out I have my air conditioning set at 80. I also have a thermometer in the box and it reads 80. Is this ok or is it too cold for the pups. Also my vet said I may loose a few because she was early delivering. They seem to be all eating and moving around the same. How long will it be before they are out of the woods. Oh an my female is only 8 pounds this seems like alot of pups for her!!

Answer
Hello

New born pups can't regulate their body temperature which for the first 2 weeks should be around 95 degrees.  Their vital signs should be 15-35 irregular breaths per minute, and heart rate of 180-220 beats per minute.   Being too cold or to warm can kill the pups.  A warming pad will help keep their temperature stable.

Lung development would be an issue and the first week will be the very important but there is always still a chance after that to lose a pup.  Signs of dehydration, lethargy and the ability to eat will be warning signs for you.

Good luck.