A Word to Those Who Wait

I know there are some people subscribed to this blog who were in the "watching and waiting" phase, along with those who have been promised a puppy and those who already have their puppy but just enjoy seeing the updates on litters.  This post is for those who are in the "watching and waiting phase." 

First, I want to let you all know that the puppies in the current litter have all been promised.  If you are not one of the three families who will be taking home a puppy from this litter, I will be doing another tricolor-to-blenheim breeding later this summer, but have already made a couple of tentative commitments on that litter.  I will probably take one more deposit on that litter, possibly two.

If you are "puppy shopping," please be aware that while I sometimes do have puppies still available once they hit the playful puppy, almost-ready-to-go-home stage, that is not always the case.  This is true of other reputable breeders as well. It is always best to choose a breeder you feel comfortable with first, and then wait for a puppy.  That way the breeder knows  you are serious about getting a puppy as well. It is no fun to have to disappoint people whom I have already approved and who want a puppy but haven't yet placed a deposit. I do not require a deposit to wait for an available puppy, but if a deposit is not given, the wait may be longer because those who have paid a deposit will be placed ahead of those who haven't.

Off my soapbox now, and hope you all enjoy the photos and videos of the puppies.  :)

Sweet Pups

The puppies are doing great - fat and happy (look at the round bellies on these babies!).  Couldn't resist sharing this sweet picture with you, snapped this morning.

Dewclaws

These puppies are such darling, healthy puppies and are getting chubbier by the day!

Yesterday morning the puppies had their dewclaws removed. I know that several breeders no longer remove dewclaws, but I agree with my vet that it is much better to have them removed. 

Dewclaws are like a tiny non-useable thumb remnant that sits up high on the "wrist" of the foot, complete with toenail. They are removed between 2-5 days after birth to prevent later painful injury that can sometimes happen when a dog "catches" the claw on an object and actually can tear it. Also, if left on, many owners don't notice it when they are trimming nails (especially with the Cavalier's furry feet) and if ignored, they will grow around in a circle and pierce back into the skin. You can imagine how painful this would be and by removing the dewclaw at a point when they are so tiny and little nerves are not so developed, we take these dangers away and protect the pups. The pups came through this procedure quite well and within minutes were happily back with mom and nursing away.  Photos can be deceiving - the puppies are close to the same size.

A couple of quick photos

Was able to snap a couple of quick photos last night.  Again, apologize for the quality - will try to get some nicer ones soon. 

The Puppies Have Arrived!

The puppies arrived yesterday.  Piper had a fairly easy delivery of three puppies.  I will try to post photos very soon.  One blenheim female and two tricolor males.  All with a very nice birthweight of approx. 7-3/4 ounces.  All puppies are nursing nicely and doing great.  Here's a slightly out-of-focus snapshot to enjoy of mom with the first puppy.

Eileen - trustarcavaliers@yahoo.com
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