The issues of overcrowded shelters, neglected dogs, and strays are unfortunately longstanding challenges we face today. In fact, some shelters experience such dire circumstances that their euthanasia rates are alarmingly high, often reaching close to 100%.
Yet, amidst these challenges, there are remarkable individuals and organizations striving to turn this narrative around, often managing with scarce resources.
A shining example of such dedication is Austin Pets Alive! (APA!), a shelter in Austin, Texas, that has achieved an impressive 97% save rate over the years.
One of their inspiring stories involves an abandoned pregnant dog, whose owner displayed cruelty when she needed support the most. Despite the high costs and challenges, the shelter staff worked tirelessly to restore joy to the dog’s life.
Unable to Walk
Meter Maid, a heavily pregnant dog, was discovered by animal control in a neighborhood in Austin, Texas before being taken to the city shelter. They quickly contacted APA! for assistance due to her critical condition.
Upon her arrival at the shelter, efforts were made to ensure her comfort, but Meter Maid remained scared and sorrowful, exacerbated by her pregnancy, which made it impossible for her to walk.
Despite these challenges, the shelter staff refused to give up on her. Recognizing the therapeutic benefits of fresh air and sunlight, they regularly transported her outside in a wagon.
Along with physical aid, the staff showered Meter Maid with love to help her heal emotionally as well.
“Our teams showed her all the love as she began to warm up,” stated a representative from APA! to Newsweek.
Gradually, her wounds healed, leading up to the joyful moment all mothers anticipate.
Adorable Little Puppies
After 16 days of dedicated care, the moment everyone had been eagerly anticipating finally arrived. The shelter’s enthusiasm was palpable as they shared the joyous news with their audience in an Instagram post.
“☀️ This #AmplifyAustinDay, the sun is shining on the best mama dog: Meter Maid, who just gave birth to 11 puppies!”
To their delight, Meter Maid gave birth to 11 adorable puppies, surpassing all expectations and shedding light on her substantial belly. The staff was thrilled for this canine family and worked diligently to ensure the puppies enjoyed a happy upbringing.
The shelter also shared Meter Maid’s pregnancy journey on TikTok, which garnered significant attention and excitement from viewers, celebrating her heartwarming conclusion.
The shelter named the puppies after parking themes to honor their mother: Parallel Park, Speed Limit, Parking Ticket, Street Parking, Stop Sign, Sidewalk, Construction Zone, Detour, Valet, Driveway, and Crosswalk.
APA! anticipates that the puppies will be ready for adoption in a month, with their mother following a week or two later. They aspire to find loving forever homes for all.
We hope this story raises awareness about the ramifications of irresponsible ownership and serves as inspiration for compassionate individuals devoted to helping animals in need.
