The role of perinatal care in development

The weanling puppy must be recognized as a product of numerous genetic, gestational, and environmental factors. There are several important transitional phases of early life. Each is influenced by preceding events and in turn influences subsequent development. The point at which the practicing clinician enters this continuum for given individuals largely is circumstantial. However, understanding the basic sequence of normal events, particularly those surrounding the pivotal neonatal period, can offer valuable insight and direction for treatment of individual animals. In addition, in those instances in which continued constructive contact with the breeder or kennel operator is possible, preventive or therapeutic management directed toward the appropriate stage of development ultimately can be rewarding for both client and veterinarian.