The Breeder Blog

Sleep Better With A Heated Whelping Kit For Puppies

by Phenyx Media on Oct 18, 2023

Sleep Better With A Heated Whelping Kit For Puppies

For dog breeders, the safety, health, and comfort of the puppies and their mothers are always top priorities. With the many challenges that come with breeding, having the right tools can make all the difference. One such tool is the Heated Whelping Kit.

This article delves into its importance, the advantages it offers, and how it's poised to revolutionize the dog breeding world, while also helping breeders get a good night's sleep.

The Dangers Newborn Puppies Face

Heated whelping kit

Newborn puppies are susceptible to a range of risks, with hypothermia and the threat of suffocation being primary concerns. Their inability to regulate body temperature means that maintaining a consistent warmth is vital. At the same time, their fragile state can lead to getting trapped or suffocated if pushed against the kennel or box wall.

How Traditional Methods Fall Short

Traditional heat sources, such as heat pads or lamps, may seem effective at first glance but come with their set of challenges:

  • Overheating Risks: These sources can be excessively warm, posing risks to the puppies and stressing the mother.
  • Separation Anxiety: To avoid the intense heat, mothers might be separated from their pups, causing anxiety and forcing breeders to play the role of a surrogate—a time-consuming and exhausting task.
  • Uneven Heat Distribution: Pads and lamps can produce uneven heating, leading to potential cold spots that are harmful to puppies.

Enter the Heated Whelping Kit

A cutting-edge solution, the Heated Whelping Kit offers:

  • Targeted Heating: With its heat tape and thermostat, the system ensures a regulated, gentle heat that's concentrated where the puppies rest.
  • Safety First: By pairing it with the recommended perimeter shelf or pig rail (sold separately), breeders can prevent puppies from getting trapped against the box's wall.
  • Mother-Puppy Bond: The design ensures the mother isn't subjected to excessive heat, allowing her to stay comfortably with her puppies and nurture them.

Saving Your Sleep (And Sanity)

With the Heated Whelping Kit in place, breeders can enjoy several benefits that promise peace of mind:

  • Reduced Monitoring: With a consistent and safe heat source, there's no need for frequent checks. The system works reliably, ensuring the right temperature is always maintained.
  • No Night-Time Surrogate Duties: Since mothers aren't separated from their pups, breeders aren't required to step in as surrogates, leading to uninterrupted sleep.
  • Stress Reduction: Knowing that the puppies are safe from hypothermia and suffocation risks, breeders can rest easy.

Setting Up the Heated Whelping Kit

It's paramount to choose the correct size based on the OUTSIDE dimensions of your kennel or whelping box. The kit comes equipped with heating tape and a power cord, but it doesn’t include PVC or crate materials. For those wanting added protection, the 4 PVC Whelping Rail Adapters can be bought separately.

The Heated Whelping Kit is more than just a product—it's a holistic solution designed with the well-being of puppies and their mothers in mind. By ensuring safety, promoting natural bonding, and reducing the stress and workload on the breeder, it truly stands out as a must-have for anyone serious about breeding. And, as a bonus, it promises a peaceful night’s sleep, making the breeding journey smoother and more enjoyable.

FAQ: The Heated Whelping Kit

Can I adjust the temperature on the Heated Whelping Kit?

Yes, the Heated Whelping Kit comes with a thermostat that allows you to regulate the temperature, ensuring it's at an ideal level for the puppies. Always refer to the manufacturer's guidelines and consult with your vet to determine the best temperature range for your specific breed.

How do I clean and maintain the heating tape?

The heating tape is designed for durability and ease of cleaning. Typically, you can wipe it down with a damp cloth, making sure the power is disconnected before cleaning. Avoid using harsh chemicals or soaking it in water. Always refer to the manufacturer's cleaning instructions for the best practices.

Is it safe to leave the Heated Whelping Kit on all the time?

The Heated Whelping Kit is designed for continuous use, ensuring that the puppies have a consistent heat source. However, it's essential to regularly inspect it for any signs of wear or damage and to ensure the thermostat is functioning correctly. Always maintain a backup plan in case of power outages or system failures.

Will the heat from the kit affect the mother?

One of the significant advantages of the Heated Whelping Kit is that it heats only the perimeter floor under the pig rail where the puppies rest. This targeted heating ensures that the mother isn’t continually subjected to additional heat, reducing stress and discomfort for her.

Do I need any additional equipment or accessories to use the Heated Whelping Kit effectively?

While the kit provides the essential heating components, breeders may consider purchasing the 4 PVC Whelping Rail Adapters separately. These adapters support the pig rail system, further enhancing the safety of the whelping box by preventing puppies from getting trapped against the walls.