On March 5th, 2020, a couple set out for a hike in the California woods. As they ventured deeper into the forest, they had no idea they were about to stumble upon an adorable and unexpected scene.
While walking, they heard a peculiar noise coming from a nearby creek. Curious, they decided to follow the sound and see what it was.
When they arrived at the creek, they were astonished to find a mama dog in the middle of giving birth to tiny, precious puppies.
Much-Needed Foster Home
The hikers acted quickly, bringing the mama dog—later named Ruby—and her three newborns to a local shelter. Just over a week later, Hopalong Animal Rescue, a non-profit based in Oakland, California, stepped in to help.
They contacted Thom McCallum, one of their dedicated foster parents, and asked if he could take in Ruby and her pups, Jax, Tito, and Kirby.
When McCallum came to pick them up, he could immediately tell Ruby was shy and utterly exhausted.
He welcomed them into his Berkeley home and made sure they knew they were finally safe.
Ruby seemed to relax once she saw her puppies resting in the warmth of a home. She proved to be a devoted and attentive mother, focusing all her energy on caring for her babies.
McCallum, eager to play with the little ones, had to wait—naptime came first. In the meantime, he focused on bonding with Ruby. She allowed gentle pets and even engaged in a few playful moments with her foster dad.
Gaining Her Trust
As days went by, Ruby began to open up. Realizing McCallum’s kindness, she started to truly trust him.
“Ruby is finally asleep in my lap, and my heart is so full. The end of such a lovely day I didn’t expect,” McCallum wrote on Instagram.
After about three weeks, the puppies were no longer sleepy newborns—they became active, playful explorers. Jax, Kirby, and Tito roamed the house, chasing stuffed toys and covering their foster dad’s face with loving licks.
McCallum enjoyed taking them for walks, often using a wagon to carry them along. The pups were at their happiest when playing outside, soaking up the sunshine.
Happily Ever After
As time went on, Ruby grew deeply attached to McCallum, always wanting to be near him. Their connection was undeniable, and he realized he couldn’t imagine life without her.
“She loves it here. I love being with her, and I think I’m the best home for her.”
Once the puppies were old enough, they were adopted into loving forever homes. All three stayed in California, with Tito going to McCallum’s neighbor—meaning he still gets to spend plenty of time with Ruby.
Today, McCallum and Ruby share a beautiful bond. She remains a loving companion and even helps welcome new foster dogs into the home. Her gentle nature makes her the perfect helper in showing other rescues what safety and love feel like.
It’s heartwarming to know that Ruby and all her puppies now live happy, secure lives surrounded by families who cherish them.