Heroes for Homeless Animals rescues puppies: 'Popsicle Pups'

Heroes for Homeless Animals is a rescue shelter based out of Madison Heights, MI. They have taken on many challenging cases of animals needing extensive care and rehabilitation. This case is no different, and is probably one of their more challenging cases. The five "Popsicle Pups," as they've been nicknamed, were surrendered by their owner in Auburn Hills on October 23rd. The owner told the shelter that "God told him to kill himself or kill the puppies." However, he refused to surrender the mother so that the pups would have a chance to live.

Frozen conditions... A sixth puppy was also surrendered, but the poor puppy was frozen and dead when surrendered. It seemed obvious to the shelter that this was no accident, as the weather on that day was in the mid-60s. In addition, the fifth puppy was extremely stiff and frosty cold. Rescuers had to cuddle him the entire ride home to provide him with body heat.

Several health challenges... An immediate visit to the vet determined that the puppies were most likely less than a week old. Four of the five surviving puppies weighed less than one pound, and all of them had below normal body temperatures, were severely dehydrated, tested positive for bacterial intestinal infections, and had the start of upper respiratory infections. The puppies were given strong antibiotics for the infections, a risky option for such young pups. Additionally, the vet was very worried about the frosty condition of the fifth puppy -- named Champ.

Ongoing care... The puppies -- now called Kaeden, Panda, Bitsy, Stella, and Champ -- were being kept wrapped in blankets on heating pads and being fed at least every couple hours around the clock. The shelter has received many donations of puppy pads and wipes, as well as monetary donations.

Champ... Sadly, after 9 days of extensive care, around-the-clock feedings, even physical therapy for his stiffness, Champ did not make it. On the night of November 4th, Champ lost his battle and "passed over Rainbow Bridge."

Thriving puppies... The rest of the "Popsicle Pups" are thriving, though. They are gaining weight, getting fuzzier, starting to roam around their playpen, and even howling when they are hungry. They have recently begun eating puppy mush -- a combination of chopped puppy food and formula. At 5 weeks old, they are eating three large meals of puppy mush each day.

A great start! Thanks to the many donations received, Heroes for Homeless Animals have been able to keep up with the puppies' demand of pee pads, wipes, formula, bottles, etc. The four remaining puppies are now off to a great start in life, and it is anticipated that they will be ready for forever homes just before Christmas.

If you are interested in helping by donating, please visit the Popsicle Pups webpage (click here).