When Dove was discovered roaming the streets as a stray, fear completely overtook her.
Heavily pregnant, the expectant mom tucked herself into a corner of her kennel, shutting out the overwhelming and unfamiliar world around her. The noisy, chaotic shelter environment only heightened her anxiety and trauma.
By the time she delivered her twelve puppies, Dove was exhausted, fragile, and urgently in need of compassionate care.
A kind volunteer, Rita Earl Blackwell from Los Angeles, noticed Dove’s vulnerability and knew immediate action was necessary.
From the first moment she saw the dog in her cramped kennel, Rita recognized that Dove and her newborns could not remain in the shelter.
A Shelter Could Not Support A Fragile Mom And Her Puppies
Rita visited Dove daily, offering gentle comfort and quietly encouraging her. At the same time, she turned to social media, appealing to her followers for help to secure a safe environment for the terrified mother and her litter.
“I’m so sad thinking about her having to give birth alone in the shelter. In crowded and loud kennels. They’re cold. I’m worried thinking about the babies trying to survive there,” Rita wrote in an Instagram post.
It did not take long before a rescue organization responded.
Pawsitive Beginnings, based in Los Angeles, quickly stepped in to assist. Thanks to their intervention, Dove and her twelve puppies were finally removed from the shelter and transported to a safer, more nurturing environment.
“I can’t image what Dove has been through in her life, but she does not know human love, and has scars all over her face,” the rescue shared on Instagram.
Adjusting To A Safe And Nurturing Foster Home
With guidance from Karla’s Pack, Dove and her puppies were welcomed into a warm foster home, where safety and comfort became their new reality.
Initially, Dove remained extremely cautious. For several weeks, she only trusted Karla enough to provide food, keeping her distance from others while concentrating on caring for her litter.
Gradually, a change began to take place.
One day, Dove stepped out of her enclosure, curious about the space beyond her litter. She was met by seven friendly dogs in Karla’s pack, and for the first time, Dove allowed herself to relax and enjoy their company.
“Momma Dove is so sweet. She has been wanting to come out and be with my pack so we finally let her. She did so well that now she doesn’t want to go back in and be the momma,” Karla shared in an update post.
Watching Dove emerge from her fear was profoundly moving. A dog who had known only anxiety was beginning to experience companionship and trust.
“Having love and family is all new to her and she doesn’t want to miss a minute. Once she’s out with us she’s happy and content,” Karla added.
A Promising Future For Dove And Her Puppies
Under Karla’s care, Dove’s twelve puppies thrived, growing into healthy, playful, and affectionate young dogs. With constant attention, they quickly gained strength and confidence.
Within a few months, half of the litter had already been adopted into loving forever homes.
Meanwhile, Dove and her remaining puppies continue to wait for the right families to welcome them. When the right moment arrives, they are sure to bring joy and companionship to their new homes.
For now, Dove and her litter are embracing their second chance at life. Thanks to Rita, Pawsitive Beginnings, and Karla’s Pack, they have learned the meaning of safety, care, and unconditional love.