Volunteers in this role will be responsible for the critical care and nurturing of neonatal puppies who require bottle feeding. This task involves providing milk replacer to ensure their nutritional needs are met, maintaining strict hygiene standards to prevent infections, and mastering appropriate feeding techniques to support their growth and development.

1. Preparation: 

• Milk Replacer:
  We use a commercial puppy milk replacer specifically formulated for neonatal puppies. This is provided by the rescue at no cost.
• Bottle and Nipple:
  We would help you select a bottle with a nipple that is appropriate for your puppies size and breed. 
• Warm Milk:
  Warm the milk replacer to approximately 100°F (38°C) using a warm water bath, but avoid overheating. Check the temperature by touching it to your wrist. 
• Hygiene:
  Clean all equipment thoroughly before and after each use. ALWAYS sanitize your hands before touching or feeding the newborn puppy.

2. Feeding Technique: 

• Upright Posture:
  Hold the puppy upright while feeding to prevent milk from entering the lungs. 
• Gentle Latch:
  Help the puppy latch onto the nipple by gently squeezing the nipple to release a small amount of milk, if needed. 
• Slow and Steady:
  Feed slowly to prevent overfeeding and aspiration. 
• Burping:
  After feeding, gently tap or rub the puppy's back to help release any trapped air. 
• Urination and Defecation Stimulation:
  After each meal, gently stimulate urination and defecation by massaging the puppy's anal area with a damp cotton ball or cloth. 

3. Monitoring and Adjustments: 

• Strict Schedule: Follow a strict feeding schedule, typically every 2-4 hours for the first week, then gradually increase the time between feedings. 
• Weight Monitoring: Weigh the puppy regularly to track weight gain. 
• Temperature: Maintain the puppy's body temperature at 96° to 99°F (35.5° to 37.2°C) using a heat lamp, heat pad, or incubator, according to VCA Animal Hospitals. 
• Adjusting Feeding: If the puppy develops diarrhea, reduce the volume of milk replacer. 
• Seeking Veterinary Advice: If you have any concerns about the puppy's health or feeding, consult a veterinarian. 

4. Important Considerations: 

• Overfeeding:
  Overfeeding can cause diarrhea, vomiting, bloating, and even aspiration pneumonia. 
• Hypothermia:
  Puppies cannot regulate their body temperature on their own, so providing a heat source is crucial, especially in the first few weeks. 
• Individual Needs:
  Puppies have individual needs, and you may need to adjust the feeding schedule and amount based on the puppy's size, age, and overall health.