Hello, I need some advice. I am an experienced breeder of purebred Chihuahua's. Yet I am the first to admit that I have never been faced with a REAL problem in my past breedings. This morning's birth was different. One pup of three was singled out, not dried and not nursing.
I picked up the pup and dried it off. It was cold, but alive HOWEVER, the pup obviously has either a clef lip or clef pallet. I have read in the past that such pups are best put down. Well I looked at my husband who said an immediate NO WAY NOT ME. And then I looked at this helpless pup and I just felt like Who am I to play GOD?? I want to know if this pup has a chance? I am not rich we are drowning in my medical bills which run about 26 thousand a MONTH! I am worried, very worried. Please help me.

As cruel as it sounds, a quick death may be the best thing. It seems I vaguely remember such a defect and the pup being euthanized. Even if heroic measures would save the puppy, that seems all wrong when so many healthy dogs are slaughtered for lack of homes.

Upon arriving home in the evening I found out that momma had treated the pup with extreme predjudice. She was quite cold, and upon further examination I discovered our pup was in more trouble than I first thoguht. She had been born without a nose. If she fed she would struggle for air and choke. Her nasal cavity emptied into her mouth. I took her to the local ER where the Vet confirmed my worst fears. He said that someone with extensive trainig in hand raising pups would have a real problem in rearing this pup, and that this pup was more than likely to have more severe underlying problems that would conitue to plague her. He suggested we let her go to GOD, and we agreed. It's only human to ask why this kind of thing happens. I imagine Mary asked why the injustice was happening to her son upon the cross? It's unfortunate that Mother Nature holds the answers and refuses to talk! Thank you for trying to help. I know that the pup is at more peace than I am at this moment, since I cried all night long. I will in time adjust but I hope I never stop caring.

Wolves live in a cruel world. The mother's instincts were what was best for the pack. Give her a good butt rub for not forcing you to do it.