A pregnant dog recently rescued from freezing weather conditions in Virginia has given birth – to nine puppies!
Pregnant Dog Rescued
On Dec. 22, Richmond Animal Care and Control (RACC) saved a very pregnant pup from a wet, wooden dog house on personal property.
According to Virginia law, dogs cannot be kept outside without proper shelter if the temperature is below 32 degrees Fahrenheit or higher than 85 degrees Fahrenheit. State law also says it is also illegal to keep a canine outdoors if the National Weather Service has issued a severe weather warning. Adequate shelter, according to the law, means dogs must be protected from the elements and be dry and clean.
“This dog was outside in the freezing cold in a wooden dog house full of water,” a RACC staff member shared on Facebook the day after the expecting pooch was seized.
The mom-to-be was named Mama Manolo by the RACC, then taken to a shelter. She was later transferred to Virginia Veterinary Centers (VVC) so staff could oversee her impending labor.
“When we take dogs from the freezing cold who are so pregnant they are ready to pop, this is what we do!” an RACC staff member wrote in a Facebook post. “This sweet girl (Mama Manolo) is going to Virginia Veterinary Centers for the night, in case she goes into labor-we didn’t want her to be alone!”
A Christmas Miracle
On Christmas Day, not unlike that other famous mother, Mary, Mama Monolo gave birth.
“She had NINE perfect puppies late on Christmas night and ended early this morning! 7 girls and 2 boys! We are grateful to our Officers for saving Manolo from the freezing temps and that these pups arrived in a warm and safe environment with our skilled team at VVC,” the RACC announced in a Facebook post that featured a pic of the sleeping puppies.
In approximately eight weeks, when the puppies finish nursing and are more independent, the whole brood will be eligible for adoption. Here’s hoping some of the furry family members can stay together.
