An EZwhelp Recommended Heating Solution
Our hanging heat lamp attached to a Large and XX-Small whelping box.
Why heat with a lamp? Lamp heating has several advantages over the use of heating pads or cradles.
- Heat lamps can be a perfect solution for puppy warmth because they address the need for minor temperature variance at the surface, unlike other surface based solutions. Yet this inconsistent temperature (declining away from lamp center) is also a problem for puppies competing for the same warmth. This is where our RetroLite lamp strikes a perfect balance for constant, but gradual warming (see discussion below).
- When using lamps, electrical cords will not be inside the whelping box.
- No cleaning is required for lamps, whereas pads, cradles, or other "in box" devices require maintenance.
We ship our lamp package with one of our coffee-top whelping pads (dark color, for better heat absorption). The pad in combination with the corrugated plastic flooring of our boxes provides good insulation from the ground. Corrugated plastic traps air in the floor fluting thus maximizing the natural insulation qualities of non-circulating air.
Why use the RetroLite lamp?
No other lamp can match it. The revolutionary Comfort Zone 20 lamp was specifically designed to provide consistent heat over the litter area without hot spots. Other lamps will create a hot point at center which significantly graduates down as the puppies lie further away. Such lamps make it too difficult for the puppies to find and benefit from consistent temperature. Although some graduation is desirable (so the puppies can self-adjust), the CZ20 provides for only a slight temperature variance--not too much, not too little. Perfect.
Chart showing the temperature consistency of the CZ20 lamp.
How high should I set the lamp?
This will vary depending on ambient room temperature. At a room temperature of 66 degrees (F), a height of 26" will create a surface temperature of approximately 78 degrees. (Measure the height from the bottom of the lamp, not the plastic lampholder, to the floor surface.) Raise or lower the lamp to adjust the surface temperature.
Breeders will often seek to warm the puppies at about 85 degrees for the first couple days and then back off to maintain 75 to 80 degrees. Assume some variation among breeds. See the tips below for ideas on gauging the comfort level of your puppies.
The RetroLite "Hang Straight" Heat Lamp Fixture
Use our Retrolite Comfort Zone lamp with the "Hang Straight" lamp fixture:
- Sturdy 9' cord allows flexibility and safety in suspending the lamp.
- Lampholder is fully enclosed to protect against breakage and water penetration.
- Screw shell and center contact of lampholder are nickel plated to prevent bonding to heat lamp screw base. This eliminates separation of the glass from the screw base during relamping.
- Shock absorbing non-metallic shade/enclosure will not dent or corrode and reduces the risk of damage to the heat lamp.
- A portion of the heat lamp's light is diffused through the opaque shade/enclosure to provide supplemental illumination.
Warming GuidelinesArtificially controlling the temperature for puppies (and the mom) can be dangerous if not done carefully. Whelps can be harmed by too much heat, as well as insufficient heat. We recommend that inexperienced breeders work with a breeding mentor, or consult their vet regarding proper temperatures and puppy comfort. We offer the following tips as suggestions for consideration:
- An indication that the temperature is too warm: puppies scattered and tending away from the heat lamp.
- An indication that the temperature is too cool: puppies cuddling and piling on top of each other.
- Lamp heat should only be applied to a portion of the whelping box -- allowing the mom and puppies (if too warm) to move away.
- Artificial heat should always be closely supervised.
Caution: Do not use heat lamps (or any other artificial heating device) with newspaper or other combustible materials inside the whelping box.Order Heating Supplies
 | 1) RetroLite Comfort Zone 20 Heat Lamp.
The revolutionary lamp designed to deliver consistent heat without hot spots. Consider getting a spare lamp. | |
 | 2) Hang Straight Heat Lamp Fixture.
Shock-absorbing design significantly extends lamp life. | |
 | 3) EZwhelp Lamp Stand Attachment. Regular
For use with EZwhelp whelping boxes. This stand will ONLY work with an EZwhelp box. Fastens vertical lamp rod to whelping box. No tools required. Regular Size (lamp can be as high as 26 inches). | |
| 4) EZwhelp Lamp Stand Attachment. Tall
For use with EZwhelp whelping boxes. This standn will ONLY work with an EZwhelp box. Fastens vertical lamp rod to whelping box. No tools required. Tall Size (lamp can be as high as 35 inches). Extra shipping charge for this item. | |
 | Complete Heat Lamp Solution. Regular
The Includes items 1, 2, and 3 above. Also includes one laminated puppy pad (27" x 32"). The lamp stand will ONLY work with an EZwhelp whelping box. | |
| Complete Heat Lamp Solution. Tall
The Includes items 1, 2, and 4 above. Also includes one laminated puppy pad (27" x 32"). The lamp stand will ONLY work with an EZwhelp whelping box. Extra shipping charge for this item.
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