Caring for a young puppy
4/1/20242 min read
Welcoming a puppy into your home is an exciting moment, but finding yourself as their caregiver after being rejected by their mother can be overwhelming. While rescues are typically the first point of contact for providing care and finding homes for these vulnerable puppies, they may sometimes be at capacity, leaving you to take on the responsibility. Here's a comprehensive guide on how to care for a puppy rejected by their mother, with the goal of finding them a loving forever home through responsible rehoming.
Seek Veterinary Assistance: The first step is to take the rejected puppy to a veterinarian for a thorough examination. The vet can assess the puppy's health, provide necessary vaccinations and treatments, and offer guidance on proper care. If the puppy has any underlying health issues, the vet can provide appropriate treatment or refer you to a specialist.
Provide Warmth and Comfort: Rejected puppies need extra warmth and comfort, as they lack the warmth provided by their mother. Create a cozy and safe environment for the puppy with soft bedding and a warm heating pad or blanket. Ensure they have a quiet space where they can rest undisturbed.
Feeding Schedule: Since the puppy is not receiving milk from their mother, you'll need to feed them puppy milk replacer every 2-4 hours, including overnight. Use a bottle or syringe designed for feeding puppies, and follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully. As the puppy grows, you can gradually introduce soft puppy food.
Stimulate Elimination: Puppies need help with elimination, especially when they are young. Use a warm, damp cloth or cotton ball to gently stimulate the puppy's anal and genital area after each feeding to encourage urination and defecation.
Socialization and Handling: Handle the puppy gently and frequently to help them become accustomed to human interaction. This is crucial for their social development and future adoption. Spend time playing with the puppy and exposing them to different sounds and environments.
Explore Rescue Options: If you don't feel capable of conducting a private rehome, consider exploring rescue options. Contact local rescues, shelters, or animal welfare organizations to see if they have space available to take in the puppy. However, if you feel confident in your ability to responsibly rehome the puppy, you can follow the steps outlined on our website. Our platform provides free resources and guidance for rehoming, ensuring the puppy finds a loving forever home.
Caring for a rejected puppy requires dedication, patience, and love. While rescues are often the preferred option for providing care and finding homes for abandoned puppies, your willingness to step in when rescues are full can make a significant difference in the puppy's life. By following these steps and providing proper care, you can give a rejected puppy a second chance at a happy and healthy life. Remember, your efforts can change the trajectory of a vulnerable puppy's future, and our platform is here to support you every step of the way.