I'm really hoping for some advice here. About a month ago, I came across a poor, skinny dog wandering on the side of the road. She was clearly pregnant and looked like she hadn't had a decent meal in ages. Of course, my heart broke, and I brought her home to give her a safe place to have her pups. I've been doing my best to take care of her and prepare for the little ones. But today, something unexpected happened—a family reached out to me on Facebook, claiming to be her original owners. I'm feeling super torn because I can't imagine giving her back to a situation where she was obviously neglected. How do I know they won't let it happen again? They say they'll take good care of her, but my trust is shaky. If any of you have been through something similar or have thoughts on what I should do, I'd really appreciate it. I'm just trying to do what's best for this sweet girl and her soon-to-arrive puppies.
Hello! First of all, thank you for showing such kindness in taking care of the pregnant dog you found. The situation with the people contacting you can be tricky, but let’s focus on what’s best for the dog and her puppies.
When it comes to someone claiming ownership, it’s important to verify their information. You can ask if they have any vet records or photos with the dog to confirm their relationship with her. The main priority is the well-being of the dog and her soon-to-come puppies.
In regard to the dog’s health, keep an eye on her appetite and comfort as her due date approaches. Make sure she has a quiet, clean, and comfortable place to rest. During pregnancy, it’s crucial to provide nutritious food that meets the needs of both the mother and her developing puppies. Fresh water should always be available.
Watch for signs that might require immediate veterinary attention, such as significant appetite changes, lethargy, vomiting, or any unusual discharge. Once labor begins, prolonged labor without delivery or distress should be addressed by a veterinarian.
Having medical support can make a big difference in how smooth this process will be. I recommend setting up a video consult with one of our veterinarians on Dial A Vet. We can guide you through these steps, ensuring the best care for the mother and puppies.
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