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The proper time for surgery is in dispute; some vets recommend 6-9 months for such an attempt to correct the cleft. Moreover, some believe clefts have to be repaired as soon as possible for the puppy to survive. While others recommend euthanizing at birth just as our regular veterinarian has done in the past. Most breeders do not like disclosing that they have produced cleft palates in their breeding stock. Yes, cleft palates are considered a physical deformity; therefore, breeders do not wish to advertise this fault. Nevertheless, the gene is carried by the littermates and will show it ugly face in there off spring.
Some studies suggest that clefts are due to the environment, for instance, unknowingly exposing your pregnant female to toxins. Perhaps a walk in the park or your own yard after your gardener has treated your vegetation with toxic chemicals.
Other studies suggest that vitamin “A” maybe the cause. At this point, we do not really know, perhaps it maybe a combination off all the factors mentioned.
In our research, we discovered that many cleft puppies are being saved and veterinarians that recommended euthanasia are realizing that these puppies can do well. Moreover, we discovered that veterinarians are taught to recommend euthanasia for cleft puppies. Further, most breeders also recommend euthanizing. For those that have raised English bulldog puppies know that it is an arduous task, especially if the puppies start to show signs of illness. Just imagine compounding those problems with a puppy that cannot eat and may show occasional signs of poor breathing due to matter/food gathering in or around it cleft and being discharged through the nostros.
Cleft Puppies cannot nurse no matter how hard they try, as they cannot get any suction. It would be like you trying to suck on your finger without closing your mouth. In addition, anything going into the mouth can get into the sinuses and nasal passages, and could cause the pup to get sinusitis and/or pneumonia. The signs of a cleft pup is when they try to nurse, there is no latch on and can only mouth the nipple. (continue)
