By westie lover
Date 07.01.02 06:55 UTC
Hi, I agree that in season bitches should be "watched" every moment and taken out into the garden supervised, to do her business, never just "let out". At night take a torch. Sadly she needs to go into "purdah" - no walks outside your garden at all for at least 20 days after the season started. Also be very careful that visitors/children dont helpfully "let her out". I would definately lock the dog flap at night, if she can get out then a dog could easily get in. Better the odd puddle than a litter of puppies! There are tablets and sprays that will alter her scent to male dogs, but dont trust them too much, still be vigilent and dont leave her unsupervised when outside, for a moment. You have a good chance that she will be safe with a six foot fence, but there are dogs that will scale this hight and more to have their wicked way! I wouldn't "put her on the pill", its never a good idea to mess about with hormones , especially in one so young, it could store up problems for the future. Just take care, and never under-estimate the persistance of a male dog to wait his chance, the one time its pouring with rain and you cant face going out with her, is when he will be there waiting in the shadows!! If the worst does happen, dont try and separate them but as soon as they have "finished" get her to a vet ASAP. No offence, but spaying is not always plain sailing, there are side effects that affect some bitches and vets dont always tell you about them, neutering is a good money spinner for them! Good luck.