Hi all. My name is Marly. I am a new Maltese owner. I'm a bit overwhelmed right now, and a little bit lost as to what to do, but I just couldn't turn her away. But first, Zoe's story:
Zoe was born October 22nd 2012. That makes her 5 weeks old and a day old. She was sold to the neighbor of my classmate at 4 weeks. Yes, FOUR weeks. I could barely contain my fury when I found that out. But nonetheless, I just had to meet her, especially since the original seller would not take her back. And even if he did, he'd probably just sell her to another unsuspecting person. I didn't want to lecture the lady about how HORRIBLE it is that Zoe was taken so early from her mom because I didn't know her well, but man. Some people, geez!
This lady already had 3 dogs in her house, a chihuahua, a poodle, and a husky. She also worked long hours, and told me she felt bad leaving Zoe locked up in a room by herself. But even when she was home, she had to keep Zoe locked up because of the husky.
So even though I did initially feel apprehensive about taking her in, once I held her and she dove straight into my chest and nestled there, I was smitten :wub:
Now I am the proud momma of Zoe. She's extremely friendly and curious. Once she got into my room today, she couldn't help but move around and try to figure out what this new place is. I live with two other girls (we're all grad students), and she was friendly with them also. She's also quite vocal (barking) and likes to nibble at people. She ate heartily and drank water, and has taken several naps since coming home (she's sleeping right now). She hasn't pooped yet, but has peed once.
I know I have a long road ahead of me, but I just couldn't leave her there. If anyone has any tips, guidelines, etc on how to take care of a pup taken from her mother and siblings so young, please, all help will be greatly appreciated!! I've done some internet searching, but so far all I can find is how horrible it is to take puppies away from their mother too young and not too much advice.
Once I figure out how to upload pictures, I'll post some up.
Thanks in advance,
Marly & Zoe
Zoe was born October 22nd 2012. That makes her 5 weeks old and a day old. She was sold to the neighbor of my classmate at 4 weeks. Yes, FOUR weeks. I could barely contain my fury when I found that out. But nonetheless, I just had to meet her, especially since the original seller would not take her back. And even if he did, he'd probably just sell her to another unsuspecting person. I didn't want to lecture the lady about how HORRIBLE it is that Zoe was taken so early from her mom because I didn't know her well, but man. Some people, geez!
This lady already had 3 dogs in her house, a chihuahua, a poodle, and a husky. She also worked long hours, and told me she felt bad leaving Zoe locked up in a room by herself. But even when she was home, she had to keep Zoe locked up because of the husky.
So even though I did initially feel apprehensive about taking her in, once I held her and she dove straight into my chest and nestled there, I was smitten :wub:
Now I am the proud momma of Zoe. She's extremely friendly and curious. Once she got into my room today, she couldn't help but move around and try to figure out what this new place is. I live with two other girls (we're all grad students), and she was friendly with them also. She's also quite vocal (barking) and likes to nibble at people. She ate heartily and drank water, and has taken several naps since coming home (she's sleeping right now). She hasn't pooped yet, but has peed once.
I know I have a long road ahead of me, but I just couldn't leave her there. If anyone has any tips, guidelines, etc on how to take care of a pup taken from her mother and siblings so young, please, all help will be greatly appreciated!! I've done some internet searching, but so far all I can find is how horrible it is to take puppies away from their mother too young and not too much advice.
Once I figure out how to upload pictures, I'll post some up.
Thanks in advance,
Marly & Zoe