Mother dog leave pups to eat and milk supply is very low are crying when nursing what do i do?

It's heartbreaking to see pups crying and struggling when their mother isn't providing enough milk. This is a serious situation that requires immediate attention. Here's a breakdown of what to do:

1. Assess the Situation:

* Mother's Health: Is the mother dog ill, injured, or stressed? This could explain her lack of milk production.

* Pup's Age: How old are the pups? Very young pups (under 2 weeks) are more vulnerable to dehydration and starvation.

* Milk Supply: Is there any milk at all, or is the mother completely dry?

2. Immediate Actions:

* Veterinary Care: Contact your veterinarian immediately. They can assess the mother dog's health and the pups' condition.

* Hydration: If pups are crying from hunger, give them a few drops of water (or puppy formula if available) using a syringe or eye dropper. This will keep them hydrated.

* Warmth: Keep the pups warm. They may need a heating pad or a warm blanket.

* Stimulation: Gently massage the pups' bellies and rear ends to encourage urination and defecation. This is essential for their health.

* Supplementation: If the mother's milk supply is low, your vet may recommend puppy formula supplementation. Follow their instructions carefully.

3. Causes and Solutions:

* Stress and Anxiety: A stressed or anxious mother dog may have a reduced milk supply. Provide a quiet and calm environment for her and the pups.

* Nutritional Deficiencies: The mother dog's diet could be lacking essential nutrients. Ensure she is eating a high-quality diet formulated for lactating dogs.

* Mastitis: This is an infection of the mammary glands that can affect milk production. A vet can diagnose and treat mastitis.

* Hormonal Issues: Rarely, hormonal problems can cause a lack of milk production. Your vet can run tests to determine if this is the case.

4. Monitoring and Long-Term Care:

* Weighing: Weigh the pups daily to monitor their growth and ensure they are gaining weight.

* Nursing: Encourage the mother to nurse her pups as much as possible.

* Cleanliness: Keep the pups' nest clean and dry.

* Socialization: Start socializing the pups with other dogs and humans once they are old enough.

Important Note: Never force a mother dog to nurse her pups. This can cause her stress and even aggression. Be patient, provide support, and follow your vet's instructions.

It's essential to act quickly to ensure the pups' survival. Don't hesitate to contact your veterinarian for guidance and support. Their expertise will help you navigate this challenging situation.