Hudson and Faith Litter – Week Four

We're growing bigger by the minute!

“Roll Call”

We did a count and then a recount, but there were no puppies missing. We were convinced that since Mr. Bulrush tipped the scales at 6 ½ lbs. he must have swallowed one of his siblings. Fortunately that was not the case; like the rest of the gang, he just has a good appetite.

To aid in the puppies’ campaign to bulk up, they were introduced to gruel or mush:  a healthy concoction of oatmeal, honey, goat’s milk and vitamins to supplement the feedings they get from their mom. With their inaugural bowl, no one needed a second invitation. Miss Sweet Pea was the first one in, both literally and figuratively followed by Mr. Periwinkle, after which the concept of etiquette went out the window as everyone looked like they’d been in a food fight. Mealtime became a source of entertainment as the puppies were lacking in table manners or bedside manners since Mr. Orange Blossom among other took turns falling asleep in the bowl. To their credit though, as the week progressed the gang adopted a more proper, British air to dinner to the point that hose downs were no longer necessary. Despite being semi-retired, Faith continues to keep the milk bar open 24/7 for top-ups but we’re certain that she relishes the break she gets from each puppy’s twenty-eight razor sharp teeth!

This week we removed the pig rails and added an extension to the whelping box which has doubled its size. Now that the puppies are growing, they need a bit more space to allow them to pick up speed to scramble from end to end. One end now features sleeping quarters and the other end which has been filled with paper shredding serves as their lavatory. In addition, the puppies now have gym memberships, an elaborate play station and numerous plush toys at their disposal. The little ones are developing their strength, co-ordination and cognitive skills as well as learning how to engage in an activity with a littermate, even if it’s just bumping heads. Since their hunting and chasing instincts are emerging, they practice with their plush toys but the most fun they’re having is the increased interaction with their littermates. And nobody cares if their sibling is awake or asleep. In this playground, anything goes.

That’s it for now, but be sure to join us next week for another chilling installment of “Puppy Tales”.