Accepted Answer

Hello,

Sometimes a runt will catch-up with the litter-mates once it is born and can start nursing. Other times a runt may fail to thrive - it could be that the puppy has defects in an internal organ such as the heart or lungs, or kidneys, or liver. Given that this puppy is not thriving, it needs to be taken in to the vet for an exam. The vet can tell you if the puppy has some type of birth defect that is leading to the poor condition and growth, and what (if anything) you can do about it. It could be something simple and easily fixed, or it could be a serious condition. You and your puppy's vet will need to discuss your options after the vet determines exactly what is wrong. If the vet finds something serious, and you can't afford extensive and expensive vet bills, your vet may recommend euthanasia for this puppy rather than leaving it to linger on and perhaps ultimately starve to death. Hopefully it won't come to that, but I thought I should mention it, just so you aren't taken by surprise if this happens to be the case with your puppy.

When you take the puppy into the vet, the vet may ask you to bring the mother and littermates. Or you may be asked to take just the one puppy. If you are asked to take in just the one puppy it needs to be kept warm - don't let it get chilled! Ask your vet for advice when you make the appointment.

Good luck!

jc

Expert:	JC Dill
Pos. Feedback:	100.0 %
Accepts:
Answered:	3/28/2008

AFA Certified Farrier Equine expert

Horse and pet owner for over 30 years, experienced caring for many different types of animals.