Rescue Mission
Donna, from Stray Rescue of St. Louis, has vast experience in animal rescue, but this case required exceptional patience. She first spotted a pregnant mama dog wandering near abandoned homes.
Knowing the dog was due soon, Donna set traps around the houses, hoping to catch her safely. The cold weather added urgency to their mission, but the dog remained elusive.
After a while, they realized the dog had likely given birth inside one of the houses, prompting a thorough investigation. Relief came when they saw her in a window, confirming the puppies’ presence.
The team devised a plan to use the puppies to lure the mama dog into a trap. They set up the trap and placed the puppies inside, but their plan failed.
“We left for what seemed like forever, came back, and – nothing. She still was not motivated enough to go into the trap for her puppies,” Donna said.
Heartbroken, they left the puppies with food, water, and cameras to monitor the mom’s return.
Change Of Plan
Observing both mom and dad caring for the pups, Donna knew a new strategy was needed. The dogs had become wary of the rescuers’ frequent visits and learned to hide at the sound of their car.
Even attempts to sneak up on a sleety day failed. Donna then conceived the idea of turning the entire house into a trap.
They boarded up all exits, leaving a door with a rope mechanism to close it. Thanks to the camera, they saw the dogs inside around seven in the morning.
They pulled the rope, and the dogs started barking. Finally, they had them contained.
Inside, they found the dogs shivering in the bathtub. Carefully, they moved them to their car and returned for the eager puppies.
The puppies were already social, having been handled since they were about a week old.
New Life
Despite now being in a warmer place, mom and dad remained terrified. It was evident they had never experienced human contact.
Donna and her team at Stray Rescue of St. Louis were committed to showing them that humans mean no harm.
With time, they hope to build the dogs’ confidence and find them a loving forever home.
No matter how long it takes, they are determined to ensure this family never has to live in fear on the streets again.
harrison
That’s brilliant! Turning a house into a trap, who would have thought of that? Excellent work! 😃
paisleyradiant
Great job, but what measures are being taken to ensure the dogs won’t end up abandoned again?
adeline
LOL, those dogs were like, “Nope, not today, humans!” Glad it worked out in the end. 😂
Ginger
Incredible effort! Does anyone know if the puppies and parents have been adopted yet?
Willow_Celestia
Such a heartwarming rescue! But why did it take so long to catch the mama dog?
grace5
How long did it take for the rescuers to finally get the entire dog family out?
Matthew
Wow, what an amazing story! Big thank you to Donna and her team for their dedication. 🐶❤️