Yes, you can carefully carry a pregnant dog, but you need to do it correctly and with consideration for her comfort and safety. It's generally best to avoid carrying her unless absolutely necessary, especially as her pregnancy progresses.
How to Safely Carry a Pregnant Dog
When you must carry your pregnant dog, use the following method:
- Support her weight properly: Place one arm under her chest, just behind her front legs, and the other arm under her hindquarters, supporting her weight evenly. This is similar to the technique described for grooming, focusing on distributing weight to avoid stress on her abdomen.
- Lift gently: Avoid sudden movements. Lift her slowly and steadily to prevent any jarring or discomfort.
- Keep her level: Maintain a horizontal position as much as possible to minimize pressure on her abdomen.
- Avoid pressure on her belly: Be extremely careful not to put any direct pressure on her abdomen.
- Short distances only: Only carry her for short distances and periods of time.
- Consider her size: Very large dogs may be too heavy to safely lift, especially later in pregnancy. Enlist help if needed, or reconsider if carrying is truly necessary.
When is it Okay to Carry a Pregnant Dog?
- Small breed: Smaller breeds can be carried more easily, but caution is still important.
- Early pregnancy: It's generally safer to carry a pregnant dog earlier in her pregnancy before she gains significant weight and her abdomen becomes very large.
- Limited mobility: If your dog has limited mobility due to injury or illness, carrying her might be necessary to help her navigate stairs or get outside.
- Grooming: As the reference states, a limited amount of handling is necessary for grooming, and carrying or supporting may be required.
When is it Not Okay to Carry a Pregnant Dog?
- Late pregnancy: As her pregnancy progresses (especially in the last few weeks), carrying her becomes increasingly risky and uncomfortable for her. The added weight and size of her abdomen can make it difficult to lift her safely without putting pressure on her belly.
- Large breed: Lifting a large pregnant dog poses a significant risk of injury to both you and her.
- Dog shows signs of distress: If your dog appears uncomfortable, panting excessively, or showing any signs of pain, stop immediately.
- Unnecessary situations: Avoid carrying her simply because you want to. Allow her to walk and exercise as naturally as possible unless there's a clear medical or practical need.
Changes to Expect During Pregnancy
Remember that a pregnant dog will undergo physical changes:
- Weight gain: She will gain weight, making her heavier to lift.
- Enlarged abdomen: Her abdomen will become larger, making it more difficult to support her weight evenly.
- Mammary gland changes: Her mammary glands will enlarge, and her nipples will become more prominent. Be extra cautious around these areas when handling her.
Carrying a pregnant dog should only be done when absolutely necessary and with extreme care to ensure her safety and well-being.
