When Donna Lochmann, chief life-saving officer of Stray Rescue of St. Louis, Missouri, and her partner Randy received word about a dog family in trouble, they didn’t hesitate. They rushed straight to the location, ready to help.
But the moment they arrived, they were met by a fiercely protective mother dog. She barked nonstop, warning the strangers to stay away from her babies. Despite her protests, the team was determined to bring the family to safety.
Earning Mama’s Trust
To ease the tension, the rescuers first tried offering the mama dog some food. The distraction allowed them to inch closer to her pups, but it did little to gain her confidence. She remained on edge, barking loudly.
They quickly came up with another plan. Randy would continue feeding and speaking softly to the mama while Donna carefully moved in to reach the puppies. This time, their strategy worked perfectly.
A Pup In Trouble
One by one, Donna began carrying the tiny pups to a safer spot. But then she noticed something that made her heart sink.
Hidden under a pile of leaves, one of the puppies was wedged tightly in a fence, unable to move and crying for help.
Donna worked gently and patiently, maneuvering the little one free without causing harm. At last, the puppy was safe and unharmed.
Meanwhile, the mother dog never stopped barking. Her constant cries made it clear she wasn’t ready to trust the strangers, and the rescuers realized they would need a new approach if they hoped to bring her in.
Catching Mama Safely
Both Donna and Randy agreed that setting a humane trap would be the safest solution.
At first, the mama was wary of the cage. She circled it cautiously, hesitant to go inside. But after some time, her guard dropped and she stepped in, triggering the trap.
To their surprise, the once-anxious mother seemed calm and cooperative once she was secured.
With the whole family finally reunited, Donna and Randy could transport them all to safety.
A Fresh Start
The mama and her puppies were taken to a cozy apartment, complete with food, water, and warmth. For the first time in a long while, they no longer had to struggle just to survive.
Now, the pups can grow strong and healthy until they’re old enough to be adopted, and their mama can finally rest knowing her little family is safe.
It won’t be long before this sweet group finds loving forever homes where they’ll be cared for and cherished—just as they’ve always deserved.
Good luck, little family!