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Mango, Day 53 (pre-parturition)


Mango hasn't slowed down much!

This is about the time that Mango will embark on her quest for nesting. She will seek out that perfect spot in the yard where she intends her puppies to be born. But not to worry, she’ll actually have them in a nice warm and sterile environment known as the whelping box. Over the next week we will introduce Mango to the whelping box and make all the final preparations for the arrival of her puppies. This will require a certain amount of persuasion because no matter how cozy we think this venue might be for her, Mango believes our bed is much more comfortable! In the evenings, Mango insists on constant belly rubs and we can feel the puppies moving around when she lies on her back.

This mother-to-be is now receiving four smaller meals, as there is less room for food given the size of the puppies. Mango is becoming a little picky with her meals so we offer her a “gourmet” selection of nutritious foods that will meet all the needs of a growing, healthy puppy. Her abdominal area seems to be expanding daily and is now measuring approximately 32.28 inches (82 cm). 

National Geographic image of a Golden Retriever puppy fetus.

 Towards the 50th day of gestation, the fetuses’ skeletons are ossified. At this point, the puppies’ coats of fur are fully developed and they will rapidly gain in size in preparation for their birth.

Stay tuned ….
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