Someone just dropped-off a puppy in my truck. Help!

[tedoll78]

I was in the middle of my weekly phone call with Mom and Dad, when someone knocked on my door an informed me that there is a puppy in the bed of my truck. I walked to see a tiny little black and brown puppy, just a bit larger than my hand, and with her eyes barely open.

I don't know how long she was there.

My partner had used the truck to work, and he got home around 1030am. So she was there for a maximum of 8 hours. What pisses me off is that it's a black-coated truck bed, and we're here in HOT Austin. So some asshole didn't care enough about this dog to think about how she's fare there before someone found her.

To add to things, I have a 65-lb Akita (Jake). Gentle as hell, but also jealous as hell. I'm keeping them separated, since I don't know what she might be carrying. I'm also making sure that he knows he's still my top dawg! Lots of treats and praise.

I'm guessing that she's 7 or 8 weeks old. My partner went to the store and got a bottle to feed her with. We've got her in a huge box with a blanket and a warm bag of water if she gets cold. Any hints on what to feed her? I just want to keep her healthy and get her a good home. My Poppa instinct is coming-out like crazy.

[Breezy du Nord]

1. Awwww

Can I have her? Pleeeeeeeeeeease?????

[tedoll78]

7. Where yat?

Anyone near Austin want a puppy? She's adorable, but I don't know what breed she is... (wish I had a cam)

In two weeks, my partner is driving from Austin to Mobile, so if anyone along that route wants a puppy, let me know! :)

[demnan]

2. How awful that people treat animals like disposable waste

and just throw them away when the reason there are so many of them is because of us.

That said, if you keep the infant dog, your other dog will probably surprise you in accepting her. I've seen dogs and cats accept youngsters much better than they accept another grown animal. At any rate, this little dog is lucky to have been thrown together with good softhearted people, and even if you don't keep her I know you will find her a good home.

[Habibi]

3. A call to your vet or the local shelter

should help you figure out what to feed the little darlin'. If she's 7 or 8 weeks old you should be able to get her through the night with Puppy chow and water.

Are you going to try to find her a home yourself? That's really, really good of you, but if you don't think you can do it, the local Humane Society will probably be able to. Kittens and puppies go fast.

[Cappurr]

4. I'm a cat person.....but I think this advice applies to puppies too

First, get the puppy to a vet to have it checked out. Particularly if you have another dog that is critical.

Second I wonder if your guess about the puppies age is right. If it were eight weeks old, it wouldn't need a bottle.

Just remember that only very special people get defenseless animals dropped on them like this. Sounds to me like you are doing a great job. Just get the pup checked to protect your other dog. :hi:

[radwriter0555]

5. Some canned puppy formula is a good idea for the time being....

the cow form may cause the runs. DEFINITELY get some water in the baby, keep it warm, cuddle it a lot, and all will be fine...

Looks like they knew what they were doing to drop the little thing off with you!

As a last resort, cows milk will be ok, just thin it out with water.

[Southsideirish]

6. From Dr. Pitcairns' book "Natural Health for Dogs & Cats"

Feeding orphaned puppies:
Mother's milk is the best there is - so use thse recipes only if you have no choice.... To keep a baby animal alive do this: there are commercial products - KMR and Esbilac but raw fresh foods would be best. To boost the protein content of cow's milk to equal of dog's milk - add protein powders. The best kind to get is one from milk and egs (not soy) Look for label ingredients : casien, labtalbumin, or egg albumin. Buy a powder that contains at least 80 percent protein (dry weight basis) - these powders can be bought at health food stores. Here is a formula:
1 cup half and half.
2 medium egg yolks.
2 teasspoons protein powder
1/2 teaspoon bone meal
1/4 cup water (boil first) but serve at body temp.
liquid vitamins for children.
Mix well and warm to body temp. Use a "pet nurser" bottle
Introduce solid foods after a month or so.
I know this is asking a lot but do as much as you can and keep her away from the Akita - by all means. Is there a no kill shelter in your area? Do a 'net search for same. Puppies usually get adopted before all others. Good luck - I am praying for you and the "baby".