Sometimes, all it takes is a gentle push, and for one soon-to-be mama dog wandering the streets of Southern California, that push came just in time.
For months, she roamed around, searching for a safe place to welcome her babies into the world. But despite her efforts, she always returned to the same harsh, unforgiving environment — the streets.
Though clearly in need of help, the frightened mama never allowed anyone close. No matter how kind the intentions, she would flee from every hand extended toward her.
Neighbors Stepped In to Help
When Suzette Hall, founder of Logan’s Legacy rescue in Irvine, California, received a call about the skittish dog, she knew she had to act fast. There was no way she would let the pup give birth out on the cold pavement alone.
With her compassionate team of volunteers, Hall rushed to the location, prepared for what she expected to be a difficult rescue.
Locals explained that the dog was extremely nervous around people. She avoided all contact and had become a ghost in the neighborhood — appearing just long enough to search for food before vanishing again.
Hall eventually spotted the dog, but true to form, she darted away. That’s when the rescuer decided to change her strategy. Instead of pursuing her, Hall set a humane trap nearby, filled with irresistible food.
She waited, hopeful but unsure whether the dog would take the bait.
Then something incredible happened.
The starving mama stepped inside the trap, lured by the aroma of chicken — and within moments, she was finally safe.
“She would run if you looked at her but when I opened the can of chicken she froze and immediately started coming towards my trap. It wasn’t long that we had her safe,” Hall shared on Facebook.
A Special Delivery
Though it took time, the frightened dog slowly began to open up around her rescuers. Beneath all the fear, she was just a gentle, loving soul — a small mama dog with a huge heart.
With the help of Hall and the team at Second Leash On Life, she was placed in the caring hands of Alix Levy Smith. For the first time in her life, she felt safe and cherished.
And just in time, too.
The night before Thanksgiving, the mama surprised her foster family with a beautiful gift: the arrival of her five puppies.
“Well look at this, the night before Thanksgiving she gave birth to 4 boys and 1 girl in a warm home. Sweet mama, your family is beautiful,” Hall wrote.
Thanks to the dedication and compassion of her rescuers, this sweet pup was able to deliver her babies in the safety of a warm home — surrounded by love, comfort, and everything she needed to nurse them properly.
Now, she’s embracing her new role and learning the ropes of motherhood — and she’s doing wonderfully.
Good luck, mama. Wishing you and your little ones all the love in the world!