Debbie McCollough asked a great question concerning the Play Zone and the number of mats needed.We use EZ Whelp pads in our play zone. I like these because they are waterproof, so urine does not soak to the floor below (and many of mine are still waterproof even through years of use and a million heavy duty wash cycles) and they have enough grip for the puppy’s safety and muscle development. They also don’t have much “nap” and I like that because some potential pathogens can avoid mechanical removal during washing if there is lots of pile for cysts to hide in. It’s also helpful for me to see where accidents are located and to absorb them so my puppies don’t get urine on themselves. But you can use any type of traction footing that you like. To determine how many pads you will need, measure your largest weaning pen dimensions (for me this is week 9, right before send home) and figure out how many pads you will need to cover that area. I use the second largest pad size (48 x 60) and I know at the largest expansion I will need 4 pads to cover the entire puppy area. So, I have 8 pads of this size, one “in use” and one set being laundered. Actually by now, I have maybe 11 or 12, because I occasionally purchase new ones to replace any that might be wearing out. Do you have to use pads in the play zone?

For myself, yes, because I know that accidents will happen and without absorbent footing pee will be smeared on the puppies and their toys. I don’t like puppies that smell of pee, so then I would need to bathe puppies all the time to keep them clean, plus their toys and the floor. So while I understand why breeders want a bare floor in the play zone (to avoid a fabric habit) I just can’t justify the extra work and mess when I know some accidents are inevitable. For you, you can make this decision based on what works best for you!

How Many Pads For The Weaning Pen?

No items found.