In life’s various situations, especially the challenging ones, bonds can form that last a lifetime. This was certainly the case for two mother dogs who, after facing extreme adversity, came together to not only survive but thrive, forming an inseparable bond in the process.
A Heartbreaking Discovery
In late October 2023, the BC SPCA received two mother dogs at their shelter who had recently given birth to a total of 18 puppies, divided evenly between two litters. Each mother had given birth to nine puppies. The discovery of these dogs was shocking and heart-wrenching.
The animal protection officer who found them was appalled by the conditions. These two female dogs were found extremely malnourished and had been grossly neglected. “The dogs received very little, if any food,” reported Eileen Drever, a senior animal protection officer at the BC SPCA. She detailed that the dogs and their puppies were left outside to fend for themselves without any visible food or water sources. Surrounding the dogs was a makeshift dog house that was wholly inadequate for their needs, littered with dangerous hazards like sharp chicken wire, posing serious risks to their safety and well-being.
Emergency Intervention Needed
Upon their arrival at the shelter, it was clear that these dogs needed immediate and extensive care. “These kinds of cases often require emergency care and medical treatment,” stated a spokesperson from the BC SPCA. The dogs were suffering from multiple health issues including parasites, severe underweight conditions, matted fur, and filth.
The two mothers, named Goldie and Honey, were particularly in dire straits with a body condition score of just two out of nine. Their ribs, hips, and spines were painfully visible, a clear sign of their malnutrition. Observations noted that the puppies were attempting to suckle, but the mothers were too undernourished to produce sufficient milk for the large litter.
A meticulous refeeding program was initiated by veterinarians. This plan involved slowly reintroducing food and water to help the mothers gradually recover without overwhelming their compromised systems.
The puppies, though slightly better off than their mothers with a body score of four out of nine, were not without their own challenges. “All the puppies were suffering from diarrhea and were noticeably lethargic,” Drever added. In an unusual twist for puppies so young, one was even diagnosed with a urinary tract infection and needed antibiotic treatment.
Recovery and Resilience
Despite the grim start, the resilience of Goldie and Honey, as well as their puppies, began to shine through as they slowly but surely made progress in their recovery. About a month after their rescue, the BC SPCA shared an uplifting update on their official Facebook page. They expressed gratitude towards the community for their support and donations, which ensured these dogs would never have to face hunger again. “Thank you for showing these two brave moms and their 18 puppies that they deserve love. We are so grateful,” they posted.
A Bond Too Strong To Break
When it came time to consider the future of these dogs, the BC SPCA made a heartfelt decision. Given the profound bond that had formed between Goldie and Honey through their shared hardship, the shelter decided it was crucial they be adopted together. The shelter referred to them as “Super Moms,” a testament to their enduring spirit and deep connection. The shelter emphasized that only applications from potential adopters willing to adopt both dogs would be considered.
The hope is that someone will recognize the incredible journey these two mothers have undergone and provide them with a loving home where they can continue to live together. Their story is a poignant reminder of the strength found in companionship and the powerful bonds that can arise from shared adversity. These two dogs, each a survivor, have become more than family; they are each other’s lifeline, proving that together, they can overcome the toughest of times.
