CockersOnline Forum
Cocker Specific Discussion => Genetics & Breeding => Topic started by: Anonymous on March 25, 2003, 06:06:44 PM
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Hi
What are all your views on giving a calcium supplement AFTER the last pup has been whelped. My vet recommended NOT giving it last time and my bitch went down with a really bad eclampsia and as Rosie is due in 8 days I just wondered what you all thought on supplementing??
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Some breeders do give calcium after all the puppies are born (but not beforehand obviously) but we have never done so & have had only one bitch with eclampsia, which was our v first litter (over 15 years ago) when we innocently followed another breeder's advice to supplement with calcium during pregnancy - a recipe for disaster! I know how frightening eclampsia is but I still prefer not to supplement with calcium at all, unless perhaps the bitch has had a problem before (not sure from your post whether Rosie is the bitch that had eclampsia last time).
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If you are feeding a premium food you probably don't need it.
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My bitches normally get a premium quality complete food during and after pregnancy and lots of milk, eggs, cheese etc so I do not find the need to supplement with calcium and have not had any problems in the past. As long as she is being fed a balanced diet I wouldn't worry too much at this stage.
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I was warned against supplimenting because it can have the opposite to the desired effect.
A good general diet is the key - all through the pregnancy and beyond.
We have chickens and i boil a couple of eggs when she is carrying or feeding pups and give them to her as treats - she loves carrying them off to eat! (NO SHELLS)
Just keep it constant.
clare