W A T E R P U P P I E S |
The pictures to the right illustrate what is referred to as "Water" or Anasarca Pups. The term Walrus pup is also used. Take notice of the resemblance to a walrus. There are many different theories and opinions on why this anomaly occurs in bulldogs. I have heard varing ideas as to it being an inuterine reaction to sodium, an inability to process proteins, hypothyrodism, as well as an inability of the lymphmatic system to drain effectively due to the anatomy of bulldogs and numerous other theories. To my knowledge none of these ideas have ever been proven. Some breeders have been successful in saving these pups when mild edema is present. The use of Lasix to help remove the fluid is sometimes practiced. It is through frequent urination that the excess fluid is shed. It is of the utmost importance to keep these pups warm as they can become chilled and die very easily. Also during the process you have to keep them from becoming dehydrated. Often times the pups are so fluid filled that merely handling them after they are removed from the horns will cause the abdomen to split open. Sometimes attempts will be made to suture the abdomen closed. But in talking with breeders who have attempted this, these pups have all been lost within the first week. Of the breeders that I have talked to that have necropsied a water pup, they said that upon examination all organs were found to be saturated with fluid. Seems these pups literally drown in this fluid and life sustaining organs cannot function. Some breeders use a salt free diet in an attempt to prevent the water pups from occurring. I have used the salt free diet before with good results. This litter pictured was also on the salt free diet but this time it was not our saving grace. Nothing is 100% and I will probably use the diet again. Although I prefer to call it reduced sodium diet. In this particular litter there was a warning of water pups to come. The teats became fluid filled several weeks before the due date. In addition to the fluid the teats became glassy and the skin had a tissue paper appearance. We did give lasix in an attempt to give the dam some relief as her teats were so large they would literally knock her front feet out from under her when in a sitting position. I was not at all shocked when the doctor opened her up and the tidal wave of fluid came crashing to the floor. I was however saddened that my time had come to experience Water Puppies. In conclusion, for those of you that are considering free whelping. I would ask that you reconsider,knowing now that a water pup could be present. These monsters pictured were nearly 2 lbs each. And these are not the largest that have ever been produced. Your bitch stands no chance trying to pass one of these giants. By the time you realize it you may lose her or your entire litter. Always put the safety and health of your bitch at the top of your priority list. |
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