HI

My friend has three german shepards, which are a mum and her two pups. However,she now thinks the male pup may have got his sister and possibly mother pregnant! and despite my pleas, she won't take them to the vets.
I'm very worried about the two bitchs, especially the pup, who is only just 1, and very small, and imature.
She will not consider aborting them, or arranging a c-section. So i would appreciate any advice i can give her on the delivery. Although the elder bitch has had a one litter, i am aware of the numerous problems that may arise for her and more especially the daugter. The younger bitch's litter is due in about a fortnight, and the elder a week later. Can both dogs whelp in the same room. As you may imagine any advice would be grately appreciated.

Ruth

Obviously neither pregnancy should be allowed to run its course. Because of the close relationship any genetic problems carried by one are likely to be carried by all, consequently are extremely likely to come out in any puppies. This is a very bad mating!

Saying the above, I realise it is not your fault and you are trying to do the best you can for your friend. There is no way the dogs should be allowed together until well after the puppies have gone to their new homes. A nursing bitch would defend her puppies against all comers and fights could be expected. Further, one bitch could well try to kill the other's pups. Even the dog may need excluding from both litters meaning that your friend will need to keep them in three separate rooms. Not an easy proposition!

Regards, John

As the due dates are so soon, I assume it's a done deed.  Though how anyone can have pregnant dogs (whether planned or unplanned) and not see a vet escapes me.

To back up John's point, both mothers having their babies in the same room is a disaster waiting to happen.  Even puppy farmers don't do that - as they wouldn't end up with much 'stock' if they did.

It is all so depressing :(

Hi Ruth

A c-section should only be considered if there are complications - in which case your friend may not have much choice if she wishes to keep her bitch.

I agree with the others, one bitch may well try and kill off the others pups. Are you sure she did not do this deliberatly as she obviously knows the breeding process having had puppies before so it is almost inconceivable that she was not aware of what was going on.

(Hi Bengidog - I don't take my pregnant bitches to the vet unless I feel something is wrong with them, however I do let the surgery know when the birth is imminent and always get the vet to come and check Mum and pups afterwards)

This is such a sad story.. I can't help thinking about what an earth the future is going to hold for not only the two bitches but the pups as well..  Well done to you Ruth for trying to help, but you forget how irresponsible some people can be.. :(