As the couple hiked through the California woods, they were unaware that an adorable surprise awaited them. Suddenly, a strange noise drew their attention to a nearby creek, where they discovered a mama dog, Ruby, giving birth to a litter of cute puppies.
A Loving Foster Home
The hikers took Ruby and her three puppies to a local shelter, and eight days later, Hopalong Animal Rescue in Oakland, California, took them in. They called Thom McCallum, one of the rescue’s foster parents, to care for Ruby and her puppies, Jax, Tito, and Kirby. When McCallum arrived to pick them up, he immediately noticed Ruby was timid and exhausted.
He welcomed them into his home in Berkeley, ensuring they felt safe. Ruby was relieved to see her pups enjoying the warmth of a home, and her focus remained on caring for them. While McCallum longed to play with the adorable puppies, he patiently waited for them to finish their much-needed naps. He dedicated his time to bonding with Ruby, playing games, and soothing her with gentle strokes.
Gaining Ruby’s Trust
As Ruby observed McCallum’s caring demeanor towards her and her puppies, she began to let her guard down. Her foster dad was thrilled to witness Ruby’s growing trust in him. “Ruby is finally asleep in my lap, and my heart is so full, the end of such a lovely day I didn’t expect,” McCallum shared on his Instagram.
Three weeks later, Jax, Kirby, and Tito were no longer sleepy babies and had turned into playful, energetic puppies eager to explore their new home and play with their toys. They frequently showered their foster dad with affection by licking his face. McCallum cherished every moment with Ruby and her pups, often taking them for walks in a wagon, which delighted them. During outdoor playtime, the pups were at their happiest.
Ruby And Her Pups Get Their Happy Ending
As time went by, Ruby grew more attached to McCallum, wanting to be by his side constantly, and they became best friends with a strong and unbreakable bond. McCallum realized he couldn’t bear to be separated from Ruby.
“She loves it here. I love being with her, and I think I’m the best home for her.”
When Ruby’s puppies were ready for adoption, they all found loving forever homes and continued to thrive in California. McCallum’s neighbor adopted Tito, allowing the sweet pup to spend plenty of time with his mama, Ruby.
McCallum and Ruby share an immense love for one another. He continues fostering with Hopalong Animal Rescue, and Ruby, now a compassionate and caring pup, assists her dad with his foster fur babies.
It’s heartwarming to witness Ruby and her puppies finding their happy endings, surrounded by loving families where they feel safe and cherished.
