Bella, a 5-year-old Husky cross, spent her days chained up outside by her owner in Henderson, Texas. Her owner had 46 animals (28 dogs, 9 kittens, 6 puppies, 2 cats and a tortoise) in total, all living in horrendous conditions with barely any food, water or shelter. When a team from theSPCA of Texasfinally rescued the poor animals, it was too late for some of them.
Source: SPCA of Texas
Some were locked in cages, while others, like Bella, were chained up outside, day and night. Some had already died and had been left to rot on the property. The surviving animals were suffering from a range of nasty health problems, as Kristen Kerr, a digital communication specialist at the SPCA of Texas, explained:
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.
Source: SPCA of Texas
They were also understandably wary of humans and not used to being touched by them. Among the rescued animals was Bella, who had recently had a litter of 6 puppies she'd desperately tried to protect from the harsh summer weather. Kerr continued:
The only protection she had from the elements was the little shade the tree was providing. She had access to food, but water was not easily accessible and what little was there was dirty.
Source: SPCA of Texas
Despite the circumstances, Bella did all she could to help her puppies, only a day or two old, survive, digging a hole to keep them safe so that she could stand guard. Thanks to her, they all survived to be rescued by the SPCA. Kerr said:
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.
Source: SPCA of Texas
After several months in a foster home, Bella and her puppies were adopted and now live, happy and safe, with families who love them.
Source: SPCA of Texas
If you are thinking of getting a pet, please consider adopting through one of your local shelters, such as theASPCAif you are from the U.S. or theRSPCAif you live in the U.K.
Via : The Dodo
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