Haydain and Misty’s Litter – Week Four

Our first time outside!

“Bulking Up is (Not) Hard to Do”

Misty and her brood have been relocated into the living room which is a pretty regal deal for mom. She’s got both a sofa and a love seat to stretch out on, not to mention some carpeting and some sections of cool wood flooring for lounging. There’s also a walkout to the backyard for those peaceful Zen moments, washroom breaks or for monitoring the activities of our resident wild turkeys. Unlike many other moms in this situation, Misty didn’t bat an eye. She knew a good deal when she saw one.

To aid in the puppies’ campaign to bulk up, they were introduced to gruel:  a healthy concoction of large flake oatmeal, yoghurt, honey, goat’s milk, vitamins, raw meat and vegetables (all organic) to supplement the feedings they get from their mom. With their inaugural bowl, no one needed a second invitation. Despite being semi-retired, Misty 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”.