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Earlier in the year, we planned another litter with Margo, which was due
March 17, 2009, St. Patrick's Day. This litter came one day early, March 16, 2009. We chose the perfect stud
dog for Margo and he was AKC/UKC CH. Calico Ridge Red Letter Day (Tucker). After months of going over pedigrees
and looking at puppies produced, we felt that Tucker had the best qualifications that complimented Margo in pedigree and in
conformation strengths. You can check out Tucker's page for more information and pictures of him and we also have a page
dedicated to his previous offspring.
CH Brondiki Margo's Mystique, CGC: OFA certified; Hips-good, Elbows-normal,
Thyroid-normal
Margo's Pedigree
AKC/UKC CH Calico Ridge Red Letter Day: OFA certified; Hips-Excellent,
Elbows-normal
Tucker's Pedigree
We, along with many
other Ridgeback breeders, do not mass-produce puppies. Many of us only have one litter every 4 years or so. That is because
we produce puppies that will carry on the wonderful genes of the parents. All puppies are guaranteed to be healthy and sound.
The parents must pass several OFA (Orthopedic Foundation for Animals) tests such as hips, elbows, and thyroid. Others go further and have cardiac
and eyes tested. When looking for a puppy you want to make sure you buy one from a reliable source, not from a pet store or
"backyard" breeder where puppies come from mass-produced puppy mills. These puppies usually have severe health problems
many of which don't show up until a bond has been created between the owner and the dog. A reliable breeder will be able
to tell you the names of the parents, their AKC (American Kennel Club) registration numbers, any OFA tests that were done and will even show you at least one of the parents on their property. You will usually
be given a "puppy packet" filled with information on your new addition.
Margo's 2009 Pregnancy - Litter Due March 17, 2009
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Margo at 30 days into her pregnancy. Notice
she is losing her "tuck". It may be sunny out but the air is cold and Margo wants to go inside where it is nice
and warm!
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This picture was taken when Margo was 40 days
along in her pregnancy. Notice her stomach is getting larger and her rib cage is becoming quite round. She can't get enough
food and wants me to feed her more often than normal.
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Bill and I set up the whelping room over the
weekend.
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Here
is a close-up of the whelping box Bill made for Margo and her litter. It can be expanded for when the puppies get older.
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Margo is 50 days along in this picture. I can't
believe we only have two more weeks to go. She's getting bigger and trying to stay comfortable.
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At
50 days along Margo's tummy is hanging a bit lower.
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Now
we're in the home stretch. Margo is 60 days along and is trying to get as comfortable as possible.
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The
puppies are moving quite a bit now and they can be seen stretching and kicking as Margo sleeps by the front door. She loves
the heat of the sun as it bathes her body in warmth and relaxation.
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Margo is
very happy and is in good spirits. A radiograph was taken by my vet and it showed at least 7 puppies and maybe more as some
may be hidden.
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This
will be Margo's last stacked photo at 60 days along before the puppies are whelped. It won't be long now. I think
Margo is ready. I know Bill and I are!
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