Use of clamps (forceps)
Opinions vary as whether or not to use clamps (forecepts) to close off the umbilical cord during the birth process. Some people believe using a clamp stops any excess blood escaping from the pup and/or stops the afterbirth from retracting into the bitch.
I do not believe these arguments are creditable. This is because
* 1. Within the cord there is a 'spring' which naturally closes off the blood supply during the birth process.
* 2. If placed on too soon, the presence of forceps can disrupt the natural instinct of the mother to chew the cord.
* 3. Large forceps dragging on small pups arguably can cause umbilical hernias.
In reality a bitch will instinctively pass the cord through her front teeth, breaking the blood supply by a completely natural process.
The raising of a litter of puppies from 3 days before the bitch is due to whelp up until the point of sale is clearly explained in our DVD 'HOW TO RAISE A LITTER OF PUPPIES'. However, it is hoped that these discussions will assist in consideration of some of the more contentious issues surrounding the correct handling of the most important and vital process surrounding the marvellous experience of a bitch giving birth naturally.