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HYPOGLYCEMIA (low blood sugar):
Hypoglycemia is a common occurance to all small breed puppies. Low blood sugar is a condition in which the level of blood sugar drastically drops. Weakness, confusion, unsteady gait, frothing or drooling from the mouth, or in exteme cases a seizure are all possible signs of hypoglycemia. The puppy may go into a state of shock and, if not cared for properly and quickly, may die. If your puppy has any of these symptoms contact your veterinarian immediately! It is usually a result of stress due to environmental change and/or negligence of proper care by the puppies owner. A puppy going to a new home may not always eat adequate amounts of food to compensate for his/her levels of energy simply because he is afraid of his new environment. Your puppy must get adequate rest to prevent stress induced hypoglycemia. Play time must be limited to 30 minutes for every four hours of rest. Activity may be increased with the puppies maturity and growth. When you arrive home with your puppy put 1/4 to 1/2 inch of Nutra-stat or Nutra-cal on the end of your finger and insert it into your puppies mouth 3 times a day for 2 days, then decrease to 2 times a day for 2 days, and 1 time a day for 2 days. Nutri-Stat or Nutri-Cal are nutritional supplements high in sugar which help to prevent stress related hypoglycemia. Following 6 days of Nuti-Sat or Nutri-Cal, if your puppy is eating well and has adjusted to his/her new environment you may stop giving Nutra-cal. You will need to provide your puppy with a small area for nap time such as a crate or box to prevent stress from too much activity. Hypoglycemia is a rare condition after a puppy reaches 12 weeks of age or weighs over two pounds.
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