Hypoglycemia is simply low blood sugar. It can be a SERIOUS issue if left untreated. Stress, not enough food intake, being chilled, or too much energy output can cause hypoglycemia. A tiny puppy cannot store enough energy in its liver for long periods and the extra stress of a new environment adds to this. Signs of this can be as mild as despression or as serious as coma and death. Treatment can range from a simple dose of Karo Syrup or Honey to an IV of Dextrose given by your vet. Regular small meals and much care are needed in caring for a new pup. You must always remember that they are not a wind-up toy, but your new baby.
What should I do if I suspect my puppy has hypoglycemia?
At even the first sign of hypoglycemia (sluggishness, vomitting, abnormal drooling, or wobbliness) you should immediately contact your breeder. Rub the puppy's gums with Karo syrup or honey. If the puppy can swallow, place several drops of the honey or syrup directly on the tongue and massage the puppy's throat so that it swallows. Make sure that the puppy is warm. If the puppy responds favorably to this treatment, feed the baby warm Pedialyte water (found in the baby aisle at any grocery). DO NOT ALLOW THE PUPPY TO CHOKE. Then feed the pup warm gruel (baby food chicken, yogurt, baby rice cereal). KEEP IN CONTACT WITH YOUR BREEDER. If your puppy is unresponsive to the treatment, seek immediate assistance from your vet.
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