Puppy Resuscitation: 12-Point Plan for Neonatal Hypoxia

At Spiegel Bird Dogs, while we hope never to encounter complications, we are thoroughly prepared to address neonatal hypoxia—a condition where newborn puppies experience insufficient oxygen at birth. We have developed a comprehensive plan to respond effectively to this critical situation, ensuring every possible measure is taken to revive and stabilize the affected puppy.

Our 12-Point Plan for Managing Neonatal Hypoxia

1. Immediate Warming: We wrap the affected puppy in a warm towel, creating a snug, taco-like enclosure to help stabilize its body temperature.

2. Airway Clearance: We gently use a bulb syringe to suction the mouth and nose, removing any obstructions that could impede breathing.

3. Stimulation Through Toweling: Vigorously rubbing the puppy with a warm towel helps stimulate breathing and overall responsiveness.

4. Reflex Stimulation: Gently rubbing the genital or umbilical area can induce a reflexive breathing response.

5. Head Positioning: Tilting the puppy's head downward helps further clear the airways by utilizing gravity.

6. Mucus Removal: We carefully use a Delee mucus trap to remove mucus from the airways without causing distress or damage.

7. Avoiding Swinging: We strictly avoid swinging puppies, as this can cause additional stress and potential damage.

8. Lung Fluid Management: If fluid is in the lungs, we position the puppy on its back with the head tilted down at a 45-degree angle to facilitate drainage. We use a Delee mucus trap to suction out any drained fluid.

9. Vital Signs Check: We use a stethoscope to listen for a heartbeat, placing it on the thorax where the elbow touches the chest.
   

10. If there is no heartbeat: 

    1. CPR - Accordion Squeeze: If there is no heartbeat, we initiate CPR with an accordion squeeze method, gently but firmly folding and extending the abdomen.

    2. CPR - Cardiac Massage: We perform gentle lateral chest compressions synchronized with necessary pauses to allow for possible spontaneous breathing.

11. If there is no breathing: 

    1. Breathing Assistance: We carefully administer small, positive-pressure breaths via "mouth-to-snout" resuscitation to gently inflate the lungs, avoiding excessive pressure.

    2. Oxygen Support: We provide oxygen using an oxygen concentrator through a small cup over the muzzle, ensuring a steady flow at a rate appropriate for the puppy's size.

    3. Acupuncture Intervention: We perform GV26 acupuncture to stimulate respiratory function after clearing the airway.

12. Perseverance: We do not give up if a curled tongue or a heartbeat is present. We will work tirelessly for up to 30 minutes to revive a puppy.

Each step of our emergency response plan is carried out with precision and care, reflecting our deep commitment to the health of every Brittany puppy born under our watch. Through this plan, we aim to handle any instances of neonatal hypoxia swiftly and effectively, maximizing the chances of survival and health for our puppies.

At Spiegel Bird Dogs, our extensive preparation for such critical situations underscores our dedication to breeding and ensuring the vitality and thriving of each new generation. We believe in being prepared for every possibility, ensuring that our beloved Brittanys and their puppies receive the best possible care from birth.