When the SPCA of Texas was called to a property in Henderson, Texas, they were shocked to find 46 sick and neglected animals—but it was one in particular that caught their eye.
According to The Dodo, the animals found at the Henderson property included 28 dogs, 6 puppies, 2 cats, and 1 turtle— all who had been living outside without food, water, or shelter. Some of the animals had been stuffed into cages while others had been restrained with heavy chains.
“The SPCA of Texas’ Animal Cruelty Investigations Unit had to use bolt cutters to free some of the dogs,” Kristen Kerr, digital communications specialist for SPCA of Texas, told The Dodo. “The chains had rubbed some of the dogs’ necks raw.”
“They were suffering from various health issues, including hair loss, long nails, eye discharge and flea infestation. Most of the dogs tested positive for heartworms, which the SPCA of Texas provided treatment for.”
As the SPCA rescue crew worked to save the neglected and sick animals, a 5-year-old Siberian Husky caught their eye. The Husky, named Bella, was chained up outside with the others, but the rescuers noted that she had recently given birth.
“The only protection [Bella] had from the elements was the little shade the tree was providing,” Kerr told The Dodo. “She had access to food, but water was not easily accessible and what little was there was dirty.”
In order to protect her newborn puppies from the sweltering heat, Bella had dug a hole by her chain post, plopped them inside and kept watch fr0m nearby.
It’s amazing that Bella was able to go the extra mile for her newborn puppies despite the horrendous conditions she was facing herself.
Madeline Yeaman, communications specialist for the SPCA of Texas, told The Dodo, “It’s likely that her strong maternal instincts and dedication to caring for her puppies […] is what kept them alive.”
Bella, her puppies, and the remainder of the animals were all treated with emergency medical care and placed into loving foster homes. Bella and her puppies lived together for several months before being adopted by loving, furever families.
Kerr told The Dodo, “The most emotional part of this case was watching these initially shut-down and reserved animals find confidence, happiness and optimism through the compassion and love that the SPCA of Texas Team provides.”
To keep up with Bella and her adorable puppies, you can follow the SPCA of Texas Facebook page. To help other dogs in your area, please don’t forget to make a donation at the SPCA branch closest to you!
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