When construction workers at a Texas landfill noticed a pregnant dog roaming the site, they quickly realized she had likely been abandoned.
The frightened dog appeared desperate for food.
Because people often discard unwanted pets at the landfill, the workers always do what they can to help until rescuers arrive.
They offered her food and care, but soon after, she disappeared.
When she returned a few days later, noticeably thinner, the workers contacted Three Little Pitties Rescue in Houston, Texas, for help.
Searching For Her Hidden Puppies
Nancy Cowan, a volunteer and board member of the rescue, hurried to the landfill. She had rescued other abandoned mother dogs from the same area and knew it well.
She and the workers suspected the dog had given birth and was hiding her newborns.
Knowing that mothers often shelter their pups beneath dumpsters, Cowan began to search there.
“I spotted a dumpster that had high grass growing around it and a little beaten path going under it. So that was my clue,” Cowan told The Dodo.
She crouched down and saw the mother dog curled up with her tiny puppies.
Cowan tried to approach, but the dog—later named Lucy—was too frightened to let her near.
Undeterred, Cowan visited the site daily, bringing food to earn Lucy’s trust.
Gradually, Lucy realized Cowan meant no harm and finally allowed her to handle the puppies.
After securing Lucy and her pups, Cowan contacted the rescue team, who arrived soon afterward.
They transported the small family to a nursery where they could begin to recover in safety.
For the first time, Lucy could rest and nurse her babies without fear.
Beginning A New Chapter
At the nursery, Lucy was surrounded by care and affection during her two-month stay. The staff helped her heal, both physically and emotionally.
To celebrate Mother’s Day, they surprised her with breakfast in bed.
Lucy’s joyful expression said it all, she was grateful and at peace.
“She is one grateful mama and we are grateful to be a part of her journey,” Three Little Pitties Rescue wrote on Instagram.
Once Lucy undergoes her spay surgery, she will be ready to find her forever home.
Her puppies are thriving and starting to look for families of their own.
One puppy has already been adopted, while the others: Rusty, Teddy, Willow, Sadie, and Cleo are still waiting for loving homes.
Here’s hoping Lucy and her pups each find the happiness they deserve.