I e-mailed some rescuers of my acquaintance asking for a "whelping mentor". I have gotten a couple of responses, with one offer to talk me through it. (Also, I will re-read all my dog care books' chapters on whelping a litter.)
So far, no offers to lend a whelping box, but did get instructions on how to make one (not a viable plan at the moment).
Two alternatives suggested for whelping boxes were: plastic kiddie wading pool (don't have) and, giant-size Vari-Kennel (which I do have). I prefer the Vari-Kennel because I can put the top on it and drape a comforter over it at night to keep them warm. What say y'all?
To answer most of your questions: basically, "Nope". (Sadly, X-rays aren't in the budget.)
I have a rectal thermometer (used for dogs only). I have a kitchen scale that goes up to 11 pounds.
I don't know how I'm going to regulate the temperature of the utility room. I might have to get a heat lamp/bulb (dog-safe) and find some way to put it in the plastic kennel. We've entered that time of year when the days are pretty warm, but the nights can get chilly (upper 50s to low 60s F).
What are you going to do if there is a cleft pallet puppy?
Sorry, dunno. Will look into the issue and consult the co-rescuer and rescue group about it.
Does the vet want her in for a shot after she delivers?
Didn't say, but I'll call the clinic and ask before she whelps.
@Darkevs: He palpated her abdomen, auscultated her thorax and abdomen, and examined her vulva and teats for discharge(s). FWIW, he used to show, breed, judge (AKC) and rescue "English" Bulldogs and French Bulldogs.
The vet vax'd her for DHLPP, but said to hold off on the rabies. Unbelievably, the dog tested negative for HW (antigen test). {A 5-year-old street dog without HWs? Incredible! Astounding! Staggering! No
way, man!} Can I give her Ivermectin now? What about Frontline? She was loaded w/fleas. I bathed her w/a very mild shampoo and rinsed her w/water, then rinsed her w/unfiltered ACV diluted in water, but don't know how long that will keep the fleas off her. Can/should I just sprtiz her on a daily basis with diluted ACV?
Dang, but I'm iggurunt about breeding dogs. Well, I told y'all I spay and neuter everything!!
:sleepy: