Confessions of a First Time Foster

The BFCACT was contacted about four puppy mill Bichons that needed out of their situation asap. We agreed to take the four, one male and three females.

Our representative met the transport and took these sad babies directly to her vet. The dogs were thin, smelled horrible, had sores all over their bodies and were lethargic.

One looked pregnant.

The vet was appalled at the condition of these dogs. The male was in such bad condition that it was recommended he be put to sleep. The others were not out of the woods. These dogs had been starved.

The sores were from the poor condition in which these dogs were living. The vet would not allow the three females to leave. They were given IV’s, medication and fed every few hours.

Yup, one girl was pregnant and had an ultrasound. Yup, there were live puppies in there. We we worried that the pups would not survive due to our girl, Marti, being malnourished.

As soon as the other two girls were healthy, they were spayed. One was put into foster care but Bailey and Marti went to an experienced rescuer in New England to whelp and Foster. Within a week, Marti gave birth to four girls and a boy. Five fat, healthy babies!!!

Having been a puppymill girl without much care, Marti learned how to survive and adapt. She was dehydrated and would take water from her bowl to clean the puppies. She knows who has fed and will move the puppies around to make sure ALL get enough milk. The little piglets are moved to the side so the others can eat. This is truly a remarkable momma.

Below are pictures of Bailey. You can see curiosity and affection in her eyes, but also how she is still healing from her physical ordeal. She will be available for adoption via bichonrescue.org this week.

The cost to Bichon Rescue for the transportation and Vet care for these poor sweet dogs was close to $3000. Yes, three thousand dollars.