Mother rejecting babies

Question
My 1 1/2 year old pug just had a litter today. The birthing went fine. The first 3 came very fast within 20 minutes apart. She would not lick any of them and ran away from them. The 4th and 5th puppies she did lick a little and did eat the afterbirth, but still would not have anything to do with them. A friend who has some experience with dogs was helping and we were able to hold the mother and get the babies to nurse, but this is the only way. I am ill at this time with pneumonia and need my rest. Can you suggest any places that might help short term in care of the puppies, until I am well enough to stay up with them? I live in the Ft Worth Texas area.  Thank you!

Answer
Hi. You could talk to your vet and see if maybe he knows a great breeder that may be willing to help you out. My vet keeps a list of breeders who are willing to help with puppies, who will let someone use their dog as a wet nurse, who will help raise a litter, ect. That would be the first suggestion. If he doesn't know anyone you could also try Pug rescue in your area. They may know someone who would be willing to help you out in your time of need. Maybe even your local animal shelter would know someone who could help. I would try the vet first though. Good luck, and I hope you feel better.