An overcrowded animal shelter in Kentucky was housing a small Terrier whose round belly seemed to grow larger by the day. The staff worried because they knew they could not care for all the puppies once they arrived, so they began searching for urgent help.
When the Kentucky Humane Society (KHS) heard about this sweet expectant mother, their veterinary team rushed to assist. Their timing could not have been better, because her puppies were almost ready to make an entrance.
Little Body, Huge Belly
The affectionate Terrier quickly won everyone’s hearts at the Kentucky Humane Society, where she was given the name Momma Malone.
Because her belly was so large, the veterinary team determined that a C-section would be the safest option to deliver her puppies.
“I was excited — but also concerned. We were grateful that she had come to the Kentucky Humane Society, where we would be able to safely deliver her puppies,” said Dr. Emily Bewley, the lead veterinarian overseeing Malone’s delivery.
The decision was made that Dr. Emily would foster Momma Malone until the big day arrived. She knew the task ahead would be challenging, but she was committed to ensuring the little dog felt secure and cared for.
Convinced that many puppies were on the way, Dr. Emily gathered all the veterinary staff so everyone would be prepared when the moment came.
“On the way to the shelter, my son sat with her in the back of the car to comfort her. In the meantime, the veterinary team was preparing everyone at the shelter because we knew there were going to be a lot of puppies and we would need all hands on deck. Once we arrived at the shelter, the surgery only took 20 minutes,” she said”
A Joyful Arrival
Dr. Emily’s prediction proved correct. While most small dogs deliver no more than five puppies, Momma Malone shocked everyone by giving birth to nine.
The team could hardly believe it. Each staff member marveled at her resilience and shared updates so that supporters could follow along with her journey.
Although her delivery was successful, the staff worried about one thing. They feared Momma Malone might struggle to bond with her large litter after such an intense procedure. Fortunately, those fears disappeared the moment she awoke.
“When she woke up, she took to [motherhood] like she had done it before, even though I’m pretty sure this is her first time. She’s taking good care of everybody.”
Momma Malone and her nine pups remained in the safe and caring environment of KHS. With love, warmth, and constant attention, the shelter became a paradise for the little family.
Thanks to her determination and courage, Momma Malone recovered quickly. Her puppies also thrived, growing into healthy, energetic dogs.
Knowing these pups would bring joy to many homes, KHS announced Facebook that they were ready to find their forever families.
A Happy Ending For Everyone
Momma Malone herself eventually found her own forever home, where she is now thriving and surrounded by love. She can rest easy knowing her puppies are also safe in the hands of caring adopters.
This heartwarming journey is a reminder of the vital work animal shelters do every day to rescue, protect, and nurture animals in need. Supporting them in any way possible ensures more stories like Momma Malone’s end in joy.