Expert: Jannie Balliett - 8/11/2010

Question
On August 9th we had a litter of 11 boxer puppies.  One of the smallest puppies has been very lethargic and doesn't seem to be able to suck.  For the last two days I have been waking up in order to feed her out of a bottle.  Today, my husband noticed that the his urine was bloody.  My question is, could I possibly not be feeding him enough?  I have an appt with the vet this afternoon, but if there is something I can do in the meantime, I would appreciate any help.  Our female had one previous litter of 10, with no problems.

Answer
Blood in urine is SERIOUS.

Also, "failure to thrive" syndrome is common with puppies.

What are you feeding them?

The best is my vet approved puppy formula:

1-12ounce can evaporated milk (not condensed milk & generic okay)

1-cup plain whole yogurt (no flavors & generic okay)

! raw egg

6 ounces sterile or bottled water (I buy a gallon of "baby water")

1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon Kayro syrup (or generic brand clear syrup like Kayro syrup)


Blend in a blender (do not froth)

Pour into a sealed container or sealer pitcher to refrigerate- and add the water now.

Before pouring into baby bottles, microwave to a temperature as you would your own human baby and be sure to test it on the fold (at the inner elbow) arm first.

Puppies thrive on this and should be fed every 2 hours or so.

Get him to a vet ASAP.

Also, keep them extremely warm (ask your vet) as they cannot regulate their own body temperatures. Seal off their whelping box with blankets to keep drafts out. They need to be in approximately 78-80+ degree (ask your vet) area. Cooler temps and drafts will kill the puppies.