When rescuers first came across a pregnant dog named Zia wandering the neighborhood, they immediately knew she needed help.
She was brought into a shelter where staff quickly noticed her body bore the scars and marks of a tough life on the streets.
Although the noisy, crowded shelter was hardly an ideal place for her to give birth, Zia was still grateful. She seemed to understand she was finally safe from the dangers of street life.
For the first time in a long while, she placed her faith in humans, believing that they would give her and her babies the care they deserved.
Feeling Grateful For Love And Care
In February 2019, Fresno Bully Rescue in California pulled the soon-to-be mama from the shelter. Shortly after, she was placed into the loving arms of her foster mom, Noelani, who welcomed her into her home.
The moment Zia arrived, she showed nothing but gratitude. She kept licking her foster mom’s face and showering her with endless kisses, as though she knew she had finally found kindness.
“…She remains loving and trusting. She squeezes her head in your armpit seeking comfort and friendship,” Noelani wrote on Facebook.
Her foster mom bathed her gently, easing away the dust and stress of street life, and prepared a cozy whelping box.
Just five days later, Zia delivered four tiny miracles — Zoie, Zeus, Zorro, and Zaina.
Zia’s foster mom stayed by her side through the birth, offering encouragement and comfort.
Exhausted but relieved, Zia curled up with her pups and nursed them, ensuring their tiny tummies were full before they drifted into sleep.
She proved to be an excellent mother, showering her little ones with affection and never letting them out of her sight.
Each day that passed, the puppies grew stronger and healthier under her care.
As the weeks went on, their playful personalities began to shine through. Zia loved watching them discover the joy of puppyhood in a safe, loving environment.
She especially enjoyed their time outside, where they could run across the field and feel the soft grass beneath their paws.
Finding The Unconditional Love All Dogs Deserve
Once the puppies were old enough, each one found a wonderful family eager to give them forever homes. Zia stayed with Noelani a little longer, waiting patiently for her turn.
That wait wasn’t long. A loving family came across her photos on Noelani’s Instagram and instantly knew she was the one.
In May 2019, Zia left for San Francisco, beginning the happiest chapter of her life.
Her new parents, Liz and her family, welcomed her with open arms. Zia adored cuddling with them and soaking up their love.
Her mom, Liz, regularly shared updates about Zia’s joyful new life on Instagram. Even when Zia faced a tough challenge in December 2019, a cancer diagnosis. She fought bravely.
After surgery, she was declared cancer-free and continued living life with her trademark resilience.
In January 2024, Liz shared the heartbreaking news that Zia had crossed the rainbow bridge. The family expressed their gratitude for the years of joy she had given them.
“Impossible to fit our years with Z into a minute. What a sweet, special dog. Fly high, our Zizi girl. Thank you so much for the memories. We’ll love you forever,” Liz wrote in an Instagram post.