Step-by-Step Guide to Tube Feeding American Bully Puppies
Feeding puppies via a tube can be a delicate task and it’s usually done when the mother is unable to feed her pups or when the puppies are unable to feed naturally. It’s always best to consult with a veterinarian first before proceeding. Here’s a general procedure:
Here’s a YouTube video as well https://youtu.be/4v5TWiR-Jks
Materials needed:
1. A feeding tube (usually silicone or rubber)
2. A syringe (size depends on the puppy’s size)
3. Puppy milk replacer
Steps:
1. Prepare The Formula: Follow the instructions on the puppy milk replacer to prepare it. Make sure it’s warm but not hot, ideally around 100 degrees Fahrenheit (37.8 degrees Celsius).
2. Measure the Tube: Before inserting the tube, you need to measure how far the tube should go. You can do this by placing the end of the tube at the puppy’s nose and measure to their last rib. Mark this spot with a marker.
3. Test the Tube: Before you insert the tube into the puppy, you want to make sure it’s not going to hurt them. Insert the tube in a small amount of water and suck up a little bit. If the tube is working correctly, the water should stay in the tube even when you’re not pulling on the syringe.
4. Insert the Tube: Carefully insert the tube into the puppy’s mouth, sliding it over the puppy’s tongue and into the esophagus. You should feel little resistance. If you feel a lot of resistance or the puppy is struggling excessively, you may have entered the trachea (windpipe) instead. If you suspect this is the case, remove the tube and try again.
5. Check Tube Placement: After you’ve inserted the tube, double-check that it’s in the stomach and not the lungs. To do this, pull back on the syringe slightly. If you see air bubbles, the tube is likely in the lungs and not the stomach. Remove it and try again. If you pull back and see formula or stomach contents, the tube is in the right place.
6. Feed the Puppy: Attach the syringe with the prepared formula to the end of the feeding tube. Slowly push the plunger to feed the puppy. The rate of feeding depends on the puppy’s size. In general, you should aim for about 1 cc of milk per ounce of body weight per feeding during the first week.
7. Remove the Tube: After feeding, carefully remove the tube, clean it and store it safely.
8. Monitor the Puppy: Monitor the puppy after feeding. If the puppy seems uncomfortable, is vomiting, or has difficulty breathing, contact your veterinarian immediately.
Remember, it’s always best to have a trained professional demonstrate this procedure before you attempt it yourself.
