In all the years spent covering stories of abandoned dogs, there have been cases of pups left on roadsides, tied to poles, or dropped in cardboard boxes.
But never before had anyone encountered something as heartless as sealing a litter of puppies inside a plastic container that left them barely able to breathe, move, or escape.
This story recounts the heartbreaking moment when newborn puppies were discovered trapped inside a closed box with little chance of survival.
An Unthinkable Morning Discovery
Amanda Hood was starting her morning as usual when she noticed something strange on the lawn outside her workplace.
At first, she assumed it might be a donation. But as she looked closer at the plastic container, she saw movement inside.
Curious and concerned, Hood approached the box. She noticed a small hole had been drilled into it, and condensation had built up on the inside.
Her heart sank when she realized what was inside: eleven tiny puppies packed tightly into the container.
No one at the workplace had any idea how the puppies ended up there. But it was clear someone had left them behind without concern for their survival.
Hood said to The Dodo: They were probably only there for an hour or so. Because with those two tiny holes for ventilation, I don’t think they would’ve made it for much longer.
A Race To Give Them A Future
Knowing they couldn’t stay where they were, Hood took the puppies to the Humane Society so they could receive proper care.
The staff estimated the pups were around five weeks old and, thankfully, in good condition. After their exams, they were placed in a warm, safe space at the shelter.
Hood said: They eat, sleep and like to be held. They’re the sweetest babies.
But another challenge soon arose. The Calhoun County Humane Society was already at full capacity and couldn’t accommodate all eleven puppies.
To give them the best chance at a happy life, the puppies were transferred to Forever Home Dog Rescue in Illinois, where they could be placed in foster homes.
Though their beginning was grim, these puppies are now on a path toward loving families who will give them the care they deserve.