Zoey News....

Hi Guys....

I just got back home a few hours ago from our veterinary appointment and let me first say I teared up at the vet office and definitley on the way home. They took her into the back, and a few moments later, as soon as I was asked to come back and take a look, my heart started beating. (As crazy as it even may sound to even dog lovers... I truly was this nervous!)
Ultrasound picked up at least three visible little ones but they can't be sure at all how many until at least week 8.

She is due in a month... I just dont believe it, and really I'm in shock. I dont think its really set in because I am just sort of going through the motions of telling everyone and getting her prepared without feeling anything but nervous yet...
although great friends make scary times seem so much lighter.

(I just DONT believe it right now! A few weeks ago she had her spay scheduled and I was routinely caring for my aunt...I rarely even leave them when I go, they are usually with me on any road trips.)

I am just nervous is all. A part of me knows that nature has been doing this for thousands of years, and the dachshund is not a new breed by any means...there are tons of healthy dachshund mothers and babies that have no complications, so I am just trying to cement that into my head right now and over-ride the "what ifs." The nervousness is over-riding all other emotions right now!

I just am also confused as well, because the woman I left them with is a friend and I really don't know how she didn't know unless she didn't tell me realistically how long she left them together or was afraid to tell me if she caught them, because she said they weren't together to her knowledge. ..... They will undoubtedly be small though, the vet couldnt even physically feel them yet and she said if they are large you can by now.

I am researching like crazy, trying to talk to breeders and already have her on a good quality puppy food the vet approved by Old Mother Hubbard Wellness which they are supposed to be switched to RIGHT about now... so we timed the exam well.

The vet gave me all kinds of helpful information and I am getting a whelping box set up this week. I am ordering all of the supplies this week as well... heating pads, lambswool, whelping supplies, anything and everything...stopping at Borders and a few places today to see what they have in books. If we're going to do this, we're going to do it right! My vet is really wonderful, and she seemed really happy with how Zoey was doing, she is apparently very healthy and very normal for the stage she is in. We go back in 3 weeks for her last checkup before delivery.

Let me also say that I have always found you guys to be a wonderful support system, and while I am trying to "become" excited about this due to there being little I can do at this point, I feel bad enough.

I realize a lot of breeders, etc might terminate accidental breedings like this but I *believe* she is too far along, I really didnt inquire about it because I just didnt want to do it, I really dont feel comfortable with that idea and I really do not intend whatsoever to add to any problems we have by dropping anyone off at shelters...I have a foster in my home right now, just got two foster kittens adopted out a couple months ago and Simba is rescue dog, so I am very sadly aware of the problems. But, these little ones will get the best of homes and whoever doesnt will have a guaranteed and happy home with us.

And.... Zoey's spay appointment WILL be rescheduled.... to as soon as she is done nursing or first possible chance to get it done. It will be a first and last. But, I am going to be as happy about it as I can be for her sake... she needs as little stress (even coming from mom) as possible.