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I lost 2 puppies that went from energenic to sluggist in one day. They, then stopped eating and were breathing heavily and died within 2days. I have a third puppy now doing the same thing. What could be the problem?Joyce
Optional Information: Type of Animal: mixed bred Gender: Male Age: 4months Already Tried: Hydration and fat(butter)
Hi, this is Dr. Maggie - I am going to try to answer your question today.
First, I need a little more information:
1.) Did you notice any vomiting or diarrhea with the puppies?
2.) When you say the puppies had difficulty breathing, did you notice any coughing or sneezing at all?
3.) When is the last time the puppies were dewormed and vaccinated?
No, and he not been treated. He did have tickson him, and clear saliva.
Joyce
I didn't actually see an answer to all of my questions yet. I just want to make sure I have all the information in order to provide you the best answer possible.
If you could please try to answer each question individually so I know which questions you are providing answers for that would be very helpful.
No, I have not noticed any vomiting or coughing and sneezing. Breathingis labored.
The puppy has not been treated for worms or vaccinated.
Thanks for the additional information.
Young puppies are particularly prone to bacteria, viruses and parasites as they have immature immune systems. Puppies should be vaccinated and dewormed every 3-4 weeks starting at 8 weeks of age. Since it sounds as if none of the puppies have been vaccinated yet they are even more prone to diseases than the average puppy.
In particular, we worry about diseases such as parvovirus, coronavirus, hookworms, roundworms, coccidia, and giardia (to name a few problems). Over 95% of puppies are born with either roundworms or hookworms, so chances are that all of your puppies need to be dewormed as well. Most people associate parvovirus with vomiting and diarrhea, however it can also cause a life threatening septicemia that can cause heart issues and sudden death.
My recommendation would be to get the puppies in to see your regular veterinarian right away for a complete physical exam. If you haven't yet disposed of the puppies that passed away, it would be a good idea to take them along with you so that your vet can necropsy the puppies to find out what exactly caused their deaths.
If you would like to read more about some of the diseases mentioned above you can visit the following links:
1.) Parvovirus: http://www.veterinarypartner.com/Content.plx?P=A&C=&A=1199&SourceID=
2.) Hookworms: http://www.veterinarypartner.com/Content.plx?P=A&S=0&C=0&A=1530
3.) Roundworms: http://www.veterinarypartner.com/Content.plx?P=A&S=0&C=0&A=476
4.) Coccidia: http://www.veterinarypartner.com/Content.plx?P=A&S=0&C=0&A=680
5.) Giardia: http://www.veterinarypartner.com/Content.plx?P=A&S=0&C=0&A=2386
Hopefully that answered your question. Please let me know if you have any additional questions or concerns.
If you found this information helpful, please click the positive feedback or green ‘Accept' button so I can get compensated for my time. Thanks and best of luck with your puppies!
Experience: Veterinarian, General Practitioner