Why are my 4-week-old puppies weak, raspy, seizing, and dying?

Question

We have 9 4 week old puppies. Originally 12. 3 died last week. They started getting really weak, raspy then had a seizure and died. Now we have 3 more that are very weak?! Yes we’ve been to a vet and they are to young. Plus we only have 1 vet in my town who isn’t always available. Pet's info: Dog | Great Dane | Female | unspayed | 5 lbs

Laura Johnson VMD · Accepted Answer

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! I am so sorry!! It is very hard when puppies are this young. The most common cause of illness and death in puppies are infections and congenital issues. Common infections that can affect the respiratory system and or the neurologic system are: Herpes, distemper, bordatella, influenza. Sadly I recommend doing special testing on the next puppy that dies to find out the cause. I would request PCR swabs to send off for a respiratory panel and biopsy any abnormal tissues on autopsy. Sometime we can not save them when we do not know what the disease is. If you can not get to the Vet in town go to a specialist or local Veterinary school. It is important to know what is going on. I hope this helps and I am very sorry this is happening. I suggest that the 3 currently ill puppies be seen at a more specialized hospital. I wish you the best!

Why are my 4-week-old puppies weak, raspy, seizing, and dying?

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