When a small, timid dog named Pita arrived at a crowded animal shelter in Los Angeles, the staff quickly realized they were ill-equipped to handle her specific needs. Pita was not just any dog; she was heavily pregnant, ready to give birth at any moment. The bustling environment of the shelter, already stretched thin in resources and space, was far from ideal for a dog in her delicate condition.
Urgent Need for Special Care
Recognizing the urgency of Pita’s situation, the shelter staff knew they needed additional support to provide the care she desperately required. Pita needed constant monitoring, not to mention a quiet and safe space to nurture her soon-to-arrive puppies. In a stroke of luck and quick coordination, they reached out to MaeDay Rescue, a renowned non-profit dog rescue organization based in the same city, pleading for assistance.
MaeDay Rescue Steps In
MaeDay Rescue, known for their dedication and swift action in rescuing dogs, didn’t hesitate to respond. Upon hearing about Pita’s critical condition, they immediately agreed to take her in. Natalie Garcia, the founder of MaeDay Rescue, was particularly struck by Pita’s appearance upon her arrival. Garcia recalled, “She looked like she had swallowed a watermelon. It was insane. She could hardly walk. She was so uncomfortable,” her concern evident in her voice.
A Shocking Ultrasound
Source: MaeDay Rescue
The first step after settling Pita into the rescue was to take her for a veterinary visit, which included an ultrasound to assess her condition. The results were astounding; Pita was carrying more puppies than one would expect from such a small dog. The vet’s office buzzed with astonishment as the images revealed a belly brimming with life, setting the stage for a highly anticipated birth.
Preparing for the Birth
Understanding the urgency of her impending labor, MaeDay Rescue arranged for Pita to be placed in a foster home. This home would provide her with the tranquility and comfort needed for a safe delivery. The foster family was well-prepared, creating a serene environment for Pita, who, despite her anxiety and exhaustion, began to feel secure as she awaited the arrival of her puppies.
Source: MaeDay Rescue
The Eventful Night
Just a few days after Pita was settled with her foster family, an urgent call in the night signaled that the puppies were on their way. Garcia recounted, “I was actually at dinner when the foster mom called me, panicked, saying, ‘I think it’s happening. She’s digging, she’s licking herself.’ I literally just left in the middle of dinner.” Garcia rushed to be by Pita’s side, joining the foster mom in supporting Pita through her labor throughout the night.
Joyful Arrival
By morning, the home was filled with the tiny cries of newborn puppies. Pita had safely delivered five healthy puppies, whimsically named Baguette, Focaccia, Ciabatta, Loaf, and Rye. The foster home was brimming with joy and relief at the sight of the adorable litter. Each puppy, a bundle of fur, bore unique markings that hinted at their heritage – a mix of their mother’s black coat and a mysterious yellow from their unseen father.
Source: MaeDay Rescue
Uncovering the Father
The mystery of the puppies’ lineage was soon resolved when Garcia realized their yellow fur matched that of Bagel, a dog who had arrived at the shelter alongside Pita and spent considerable time with her. It was clear that Bagel was the father. Unfortunately, due to Pita’s immediate needs and her pregnancy, Bagel had not been able to leave the shelter with her initially.
Source: MaeDay Rescue
Reuniting the Family
Motivated by the new family’s situation and a touch of humor about Bagel’s absence during the birth, Garcia and her team decided to rescue Bagel as well. “We were making so many jokes about him not helping, like where is he? He hasn’t even sent a card to say congrats on the babies,” Garcia joked. Once rescued, Bagel too was placed in a foster home, where he gradually began to overcome his initial fear of humans, much like Pita had.
Source: MaeDay Rescue
A Happy Ending
Over the following weeks, both Pita and Bagel adjusted well to their foster homes, showing signs of comfort and happiness. Their stories, marked by a challenging start, transformed into tales of hope and love. As they thrived in their temporary homes, plans were made to find them permanent, loving families where they, along with their puppies, could continue their lives in safety and joy. The community that followed their story through MaeDay Rescue’s updates eagerly awaited the day when each of these adorable dogs would find their forever homes, ready to spread happiness and warmth to their new families.
