Getting separated from your children can be heartbreaking, whether you have two legs or four. That kind of loss, paired with being returned again and again, can easily crush the soul.
But when it came to Kona, that wasn’t the case at all.
I’m honored to share the story of a dog who rose above every challenge and devoted her paws to little ones who looked nothing like her. Instead of puppies, Kona’s love poured into baby kittens, proving that a mother’s heart has no limits.
This girl found purpose in an unexpected family, and her story is unforgettable.
Kona’s Struggles And A New Beginning
Kona and her three tiny puppies once roamed the streets of Tennessee with no safe place to call home. Fortunately, they were rescued and brought to New York City so all four could find forever families.
The puppies were quickly adopted, and Kona also found a home, but her journey was not simple. She was adopted, then returned, adopted again, and once more brought back. Each failed placement chipped away at hope in the rescue shelter.
Then everything changed. When Asa met her, there was an instant connection. The moment their eyes locked, Asa knew this dog deserved far better. After hearing Kona’s rough history, Asa made the heartfelt choice to adopt her for good.
Asa fostered many animals, especially kittens who needed temporary care or vaccine boosters before adoption. While most would assume dogs and cats don’t mix, Kona shattered that stereotype.
Every time Asa carried a crate filled with mewing kittens through the door, Kona would burst with excitement, tail wagging wildly and letting out happy squeals.
“Every time I bring a crate home she will start freaking out, tail wagging, shrieking, see what’s going on in there,” said Asa.
A Gentle And Patient Babysitter
The fact that Kona was separated from her babies probably played a role in her attitude toward the kittens. She acted as if she was their mother.
Kona would spend time grooming and playing with them, making them feel loved and appreciated.
She would also stand guard when they were eating, making sure they were cleaning out their bowls because she knew how important food is in making them grow big and strong.
She is also super patient with them, understanding that they are small and are trying to get to know how things work in the big world.
If they do kind of go overboard and start to hurt her with their claws then she will kind of warn them. But she is never aggressive.
There are instances where Asa simply doesn’t have any kittens to foster, so the house isn’t filled with little kittens running around all the time.
At times like this, Kona seems as if she is depressed. She has low energy and wants to stay in bed. That is pretty unusual for this pupper.
But, as soon as her mom brings over some fluffy and energetic kittens, she is back on her paws and back on her babysitting duties!