Re: Pregnancy - Calcium

In Reply to: Pregnancy - Calcium
Category:   Breeding
Posted by:  Melissa Schmidt
Posted on:  November 24, 2002 at 20:48:04

: Hi,

: I have a female JRT who is five weeks pregnant right now and this is my third litter of puppies. I have previously included a small amount of powdered egg shells (about 1/4 tsp) in my girls diet to add some calcium to ward against eclampsia, she'd also get it while nursing. Also, another breeder recommended using half a calcium pill. But, I'm in the process of reading "Dog's: The Ultimate Care Guide" and it mentions to be very careful with suppliments, like calcium, and that they could cause deformities. It gave me a scare so I was wondering if you have any advice/experience. My pregnant girl is 5 years old, this is her first litter and she is now on Purina Growth plus wet dog food.
: Thanks in Advance!!

: Best,
: melissa

Response:

Hi Melissa,

I'm wondering if the "Ultimate Care Guide" warns against suppliments because some people may over-do it. I've always given my pregnant bitches (upon advice from my vet) a good daily vitamin - such as Pet Tabs - with no ill side effects. I also switch the bitch from adult kibble to puppy kibble about half-way through the pregnancy.

I continue with the Pet Tabs & puppy chow during nursing, plus add cottage cheese to the kibble at a rate of 80% kibble to 20% cottage cheese.