Heavy panting replaces her funny howls, as she lays down day to day. Ramona who is always up to something, only manages to get up when she hears a wrapper crackle. Jiji her personal nemesis, sits near her, no swipes, no surprise cops and robbers games.
In the evening, when we all have succumbed to the couch after a day's labor. Ramona unsteadily gets on the couch, which she had done before with such grace. Playing ostrich behind my back. Only thing is, she seems to fall asleep with her head in the sand.
Her days of birth watch start August 11th-August 17th. The 15th is the most likely date. We have started her daily exams and temperature checks. I will post her temperature check once we hit the last week.
Each Litter we learn something new to create a better whelping living space step 1, and a step 2 as they grow. Attached will be the photos of Step 1.
What we used:
Our Pen-Frisco Wire Dog Exercise Pen with Step-Through Door $39.99
Foundation- 1/4 x 4 x 8 Reversible Handi-Panel $29.99
Screws-Menards® SKU: 2290559 $2.99
1/8 of an inch x 5 1/2 inches (width) x 3 1/2 (feet) <x2> about $4-$5 at Menards
1/8 of an inch x 5 1/2 inches (width) x 4 (feet) <1> $7 ish at Menards
Varathane "Water-Based Ultimate Spar Urethane" $16.99:
Vinyl Tiles<50> we saved from another project (Menards currently has Vinyl Peel-N Stick @ $.33/each, 50 would cost $16.50
Standard 8in Cable Ties- $1.99
Decals I made previously.
Total give or take $119.45 before tax. If you already have these items it would be of course less.
How We Put it All Together
First we started with the base. The Reversible Handi-Panel, we sawed off 2.66 feet(32in) for Step 2 of the pen. And set that aside for later. The remainder was sanded, both sides of the panel were treated 3 times with the water sealant. Then we added the boards, using power tools and the screws to secure into baseboard. Next, more water sealant applied to the added panel 4 coats with special attention to each crevice. The pen was then settled in when everything was dry. We decided to do a specific shape because Ramona sleeps a certain way, pig rails did not work well with her and her litter previously. Not all whelping traditions work for all. Finally, I added the vinyl tile one on one, then one overlapping the center of a pair. I used a drill and the cable ties to secure them together. Besides pressing them together firmly.
The Pen looks great! I love the added touch of Fur Mama!
Nicely done!🤗🤗