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Ready Box?

HeatherD92

Active Member
Hello! I wanted to ask some of you what your thoughts are on a "ready box"? Different from a whelping box it's a container with a heat source where you put the puppies directly after birth while mom finishes delivering puppies. I was going to build one, but can't seem to find "plans" for one. I bought a book that has this box in the supply check list. Has anyone ever made/used one? Wouldn't it make mom super anxious to be separated from her new babies?


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maryl

Well-Known Member
You don't need to build anything, since you're only going to use it during the birth. Just get a cardboard box with an open top so that the mother can see the pups. Put a heating pad set on low with a thick towel on top in it for the pups. Put the pups in it when mom is actively delivering. Once she is done delivering and cleaning a pup, put the other babies back with her. It can sometimes take over an hour between pups.
 

HeatherD92

Active Member
You don't need to build anything, since you're only going to use it during the birth. Just get a cardboard box with an open top so that the mother can see the pups. Put a heating pad set on low with a thick towel on top in it for the pups. Put the pups in it when mom is actively delivering. Once she is done delivering and cleaning a pup, put the other babies back with her. It can sometimes take over an hour between pups.

Thanks Maryl!


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BlackShadowCaneCorso

Super Moderator
Staff member
You can also use a tote or laundry basket, just be sure to line it so that puppies don't get a chill. We put a heating pad in the bottom and a towel over the pups to keep them warm while delivering another and then back in with mom.
 

Nik

Well-Known Member
I agree with using something readily available. As to the anxiety as long as mom still knows where the pups are and trusts you (her person) she shouldn't have anxiety. The ready box is nice because it helps keep the pups out of the way while she delivers the new ones. I did the same with bengal cats many years ago. Most moms were fairly sedentary and having the kits in with them wasn't an issue. However, I did have a situation in which I was very glad for the ready box as mom became totally freaked out during the birth of one of the larger kittens and lashed out at whatever was nearest (just me since the kits were safe in the box). I got some significant slashes in my arm and a case of cat scratch fever when she clung to me during that particular birth. After that one was out she was fine and an angel once again but I was glad the kittens were out of range at that moment... Birth can be tough and unpredictable so being prepared is never a bad thing to be . :)
 

HeatherD92

Active Member
Exactly! And that sounds like it was painful. I also want to have the "ready box" ready in case something goes south at home and I have to transport them and mom to the vet! Hopefully that doesn't happen, but I want to be and will be totally prepared.


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