Water or Walrus Puppies
by Lee Weston
The terms "water",or "walrus", puppies refers to newborn pups afflicted
with edema varying from mild to severe. These huge, swollen, waterlogged
puppies are about twice the size of normal pups, often born alive, but
are weak and limp, they are heavy and look as though someone blew them
up like a balloon. Bulldogs seem to have a higher than normal incidence
of this affliction. Other breeds have also reported having walrus
puppies, the Shar Pei, Bullmastiff, Basset, Boston Terrier and Chihuahuas.
In the past, the puppies afflicted with this were put down by the vet,
or failed to be resuscitated.
The cause of this condition is not known at the time of this writing.
Some veterinarians have recently had great success using Lasix
in the treatment of this problem. Lasix is the brand name
of the chemical Furosemide. Furosemide is a diuretic-saluretic.
What it does is, it inhibits the reabsorption of sodium. The drug is administered
intravenously immediately after birth of the water pup. It is important
that you consult your veterinarian if you should suspect that your female
dog may deliver water puppies.
Some signs for you to watch your pregnant female for are: drinking
large amounts of water, nipples and surrounding tissues have a shiny look.
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