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Many puppies are lost unnecessarily each year because breeders know too little about hypoglycemia and many veterinarians
find it difficult to diagnose. Usually the puppy is comatose the first time a Vet sees him and since he usually responds immediately
to intravenous or subcutaneous dextrose injections, the Vet often diagnoses the problem as an acute illness such as hepatitis
or encephalitis.
In a young puppy or a very small toy dog this condition is usually hypoglycemia, brought
on by stress or shock in some form. Stress is caused by overhandling young puppies and not letting them get enough rest, a
refusal to eat, or exposure to low room temperatures for a long period of time. The puppy will appear limp and lifeless with
the gums and tongue usually grayish blue in color. Temperature will be sub-normal and the puppy will be shivering and trembling
in the early stages.
As this condition worsens, the puppy either goes into a coma or convulsions. Death will result
if not cared for immediately. The blood sugar level must be raised at once and the stress condition treated. To prevent this
from happening , I recommend using Nutri-stat or Nutrical as a treat about every 4 hours. Jusy a little will do.
Make sure your new puppy eats! Yorkies can be very picky. I usually feed Eukabuba and if I do not think they are eating enough
I mix in some Mighty Dog. Sometimes I even resort to Meow Mix cat food.
Preventing this condition is a lot easier
than treating a comatose puppy. Keep a watchful eye on your new puppy. It is quite possible for them to be hyperactive one
minute and go down another.
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