A Heartwarming Rescue: Natajuli’s Journey from Abandonment to Motherhood
On December 22, 2022, a white puppy was heartlessly abandoned in front of the Instituto Amor em Patas (IAPA), an animal rescue facility in São Paulo, Brazil. This shelter frequently took in stray dogs, but one particular dog named Natajuli quickly caught their attention. Heavily pregnant and visibly anxious, her large belly suggested she would be giving birth soon.
When Natajuli arrived at the shelter, she was understandably nervous. The unfamiliar environment was a stark contrast to the comfort she once knew, and the trauma of being abandoned left her anxious for the safety of her unborn puppies. Recognizing the urgency of the situation, the shelter staff acted swiftly to help Natajuli settle in. They understood that her comfort and tranquility were crucial for the well-being of both her and her puppies.
The compassionate team calmed her anxiety, and once she began to feel more secure in her new surroundings, they scheduled a veterinary visit for the following day. Natajuli appeared weak and lethargic, raising concerns for her health. Fortunately, after a thorough exam and an ultrasound scan that revealed no immediate issues, the veterinarian confirmed that she was healthy and did not exhibit signs of significant neglect or malnutrition one might expect from a dog who had lived on the streets for a prolonged period.
Throughout her stay at the shelter, staff members remained vigilant, watching over Natajuli and providing the care she desperately needed. Someone was always there to keep her company, ensuring she had enough food and water, and helping her feel warm and comfortable. They gently massaged her swollen belly to ease her discomfort, providing reassurance and companionship during this challenging time.
However, as the days passed and her due date approached—typically between 58 to 68 days of pregnancy—the shelter staff grew increasingly anxious about the delay in her labor. Thankfully, their worries proved unfounded as Natajuli began to show signs of labor in the early hours of the morning. Finding a cozy spot, she prepared to bring her puppies into the world.
Excitement filled the air as the shelter staff eagerly awaited the arrival of Natajuli’s puppies. When the first puppy was born, joy erupted among the team. A shelter employee carefully lifted the small bundle of fur and placed it close to Natajuli’s face, allowing her to bond and care for her newborn. The first puppy, a delightful male with a white coat like his mother, marked the beginning of a new chapter.
As more puppies entered the world, the shelter staff’s excitement grew. Each new arrival brought joy and curiosity, as they pondered how many puppies Natajuli would give birth to. While a typical litter ranges from five to six puppies, Natajuli astonished everyone by delivering a remarkable 14 puppies! The staff was both shocked and delighted as each little pup, resembling their mother with their white fur and adorable pink noses, made their entrance.
Recognizing the demands of caring for such a large litter, the shelter staff quickly acted to ensure all the puppies’ health and well-being. Regular veterinary checkups monitored their growth, and caretakers divided the pups into smaller groups, allowing each one to nurse adequately from Natajuli.
As the days went by, the entire shelter team reveled in Natajuli’s transformation from an abandoned dog to a devoted mother, and they felt joy for the healthy puppies flourishing under her care. They looked forward to the day these beautiful pups would be placed in loving forever homes, where they would be appreciated and cherished for years to come. The story of Natajuli and her remarkable litter exemplifies the resilience of animals and the power of compassion, highlighting the incredible work being done in animal rescue.
