Published Date:
01 February 2008
A DOG breeder has had her puppy love put to the test after her pet Irish Setter gave birth to a record-breaking 16-strong litter earlier this month.
Dee Farndell (56), owner of Zilveren Kennels in Terrington St Clement, was amazed by the record haul which arrived on January 15 as it was her biggest delivery by a dog in 35 years of breeding.
Her pet dog Kelly (2) endured nearly ten hours of labour but all 16 puppies made a safe arrival and are now making good progress at home.
Mrs Farndell and her husband Malcolm (58) have been helping the proud mother by mounting a 24-hour vigil to ensure the new arrivals get the care and attention they need during the crucial early weeks of life.
Mrs Farndell told the Lynn News: "Irish Setters normally have litters of between nine and 11 puppies. We have been breeding for 35 years, we had a litter of 14 a few years ago, but this is unbelievable.
"I knew she would be having a large litter because she had got so big, but they just kept coming and coming and when it got to the fifteenth I said 'please, no more.'
"For the whole litter to survive is amazing. We are doing a 24-hour watch, giving her eight puppies at a time while keeping an eye on her to make sure everything is all right.
"This is Kelly's first litter but after this it will more than likely be her last."
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Last Updated:
01 February 2008 9:17 AM
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Source:
Lynn News Friday
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Location:
King's Lynn