Labor and Whelping  
Some Obstetric Difficulties  
The Newborn Pups  
Eclampsia  
Hand-Rearing the Pups  
General Care of the Pups  

ECLAMPSIA

A serious condition known as eclampsia or milk fever may follow whelping. It affects nursing bitches. The depletion of blood calcium is suspected as a major cause. The condition is characterized by excessive panting, nervousness, restlessness, loss of appetite, a stilted walk, temperature above 103° and as high as 108°, collapse and convulsions. Don't waste time—call the veterinarian. There is nothing you can do. The veterinarian will have to inject calcium into the bitch and it should be done as soon as possible.