[2doodsmom]

Wow. You've really got your hands full. It sounds like Dora is really lucky that she found you.

It is extremely common for puppies to have worms. The treatment for them has to be repeated and in certain circumstances (We live out in the country and all sorts of critters pass through - giving our puppies contact with parasites of all sorts.) pups (consult your vet about how old) should be on a monthly preventative medication year round.

However, responsible breeders make sure their pups are regularly treated for these routine issues AND they will make sure your puppy's shots are up to date AND they would never send a sick puppy to a new home AND they will respond like lightening to one of their babies getting sick. It is absolutely NOT normal for your puppy to be coughing and struggling with a communicable disease.

Responsible breeders don't sell their pups through pet stores.

I never recommend purchasing any animal from a pet store. You have no direct contact with the breeder, and therefore have no clue what conditions your puppy comes from. Unfortunately humanity includes a great number of people who will use dogs for personal profit with absolutely no concern for the welfare of the animal.

As you now have unfortunately discovered, there is no one but you to care for your new little Dora girl - you and all of us here at the doodle forum who will happily pass on any advice we can.

There are a number of responsible breeders who lovingly and tirelessly contribute to this forum and I know that they will have some really good advice for you. More than I can give, I'm just a doodle mommy and right now I'm really furious with little Dora's breeder. My one piece of advice is to make a giant fuss at your pet store. If they won't help you (and the pup they still have in confinement), please NEVER, NEVER shop there again. And tell everyone you can to stay away as well.

Dora sounds like a jewel and you couldn't possibly avoid being attached to her already. Bless you for taking such good care of her.

 

[2doodsmom]

bminder - I'm so sorry Dora is no better.

This morning when I responded to your post I was really angry with Dora's breeder and I still am. But right now I'm sure you are worried enough about your pup that the last thing you need is someone else venting and most of my post was just that, I'm afraid. Please accept my apologies.

This forum is an amazing group of dog lovers. Know that we are all rooting for you and Dora. Please keep us posted on how you guys are doing.

 

[2doodsmom]

bmineder- Thanks for the photo. What a cutie! I'm glad you got a postive report from the vet. Hopefully she'll turn the corner over the weekend and you'll all be more comfortable. Lucky Dora to have you.

I would pursue some help with your vet bills at the very least. Question: Is Dora's sister still there?

 

[2doodsmom]

Beth and Dora - We all are cheering for Dora's full recovery. Good for you -getting the pet store folks to make some concessions. How sad that they are apparently not doing anything for Dora's sister. I can't imagine what it must be like for her to be feeling so sick all alone in the store. Of course, they can't sell her when she's sick... and without treatment, who knows if she will make it or not. It's hard to believe that they wouldn't be eager to accept your offer to take her. I'm willing to bet that if you could take her, your vet might work with you on the cost of her care. It's just a thought. Surely there's some doodle lover out there who could take the risk on beautiful Dora's sister.

Thanks so much for keeping us informed. And God bless you for your kind heart. Dora is absolutely beautiful and I'm sure she will be a blessing for you and your family.

 

[2doodsmom]

Hi, Beth! Thanks so much for the update. It is great to hear that Dora is getting better. You have done such a wonderful job with her at this difficult time. Most of us get a pup and almost everything healthwise goes well. Then we complain about all the other puppy behavior that can challenge our patience! I love how you see Dora's digging, though annoying, as a sign of her feeling better.

As for your question about two pups.... I have two. They are littermates who came to us at 8 weeks. It was hard. Much harder than having a single pup would have been from the standpoint of training. When your pup has another beloved pup to pay attention to, it's asking a lot to get them to listen to you and watch. It takes some creative thinking to come up with ways to address this. I don't know if we could have done it with children and a baby. There have definitely been some frustrating times. HOWEVER -
I am SO glad now that we got two. They are never lonely. Never cry in their crate or fret when we leave. They have been endless entertainment and boundless love. We are truly blessed now to have them....but I would be lying if I said I haven't had moments when I thought it was a mistake. Now, I know, better, but George and Grace are 8 months old.

You're absolutely right to consider this very carefully. And only YOU can make the decision for your family.

But boy, I hate that Dora's sis is at that pet store, especially knowing they're about to bring a batch of puppies in. This is apparently a communicable illness, putting all the coming pups at risk. Additionally, I wonder if the pet store will care where the new puppies have come from and whether they are healthy or not. It is very distressing.

I'm glad the store owner is working with you, but I still believe that's absolutely the LEAST he should do. However I think it's appalling that he would suggest you bring Dora back in order to obtain a refund. First, what would he do with her then? Second, could he give you a refund on the heartbreak? No way.

God bless you for your love and concern for Dora. I join the other folks on this forum who would help with a donation on her sister's behalf. I wonder how much the local media would love to air your story? I can't imagine it would take more than one phone call.

 

[2doodsmom]

Hooray for Dora! You have really been through such a tough time....and handled it so beautifully. Can't wait to see some new pics of your (healthy!) little girl.