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By Alyce Collins
Senior Reporter
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A rescue center has taken in a heavily pregnant senior dog, who was abandoned at the pound through just days before welcoming her litter.
Cream, the 9-year-old medium mixed breed, ended up at the pound on January 22, despite being heavily pregnant and physically struggling. After several days, she was taken in by The Dogs' Refuge Home in Perth, West Australia who ensured that she received the care and medical support she needed.
Dakota Power, the digital marketing coordinator for The Dogs' Refuge Home, told Newsweek that the sight of such an old dog "being forced to carry puppies" was "nothing short of horrific." Given her age and physical condition, Cream was in no fit state to have a litter.
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The rescue center believes Cream went through several homes over the years, and was only in her last home for a brief time before she ended up at the pound.
"Based on a physical exam, we believe Cream has been used for breeding many times before," Power said. "Her teeth are rotted away, likely due to a lack of calcium whilst nursing previous litters."
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Cream welcomed two of her puppies on the night of February 24, however, she struggled to deliver the third pup. Power explained that due to her advanced age, she was "completely exhausted" and became very distressed as the hours went by.
She wasn't progressing so she was taken to the vet for an emergency cesarean on February 25.
Her three puppies have been dubbed the "Cream recipe litter," adorably named Fettuccini, Brulee and Gratin.
"Whilst she was under anesthesia for the caesarean, our vet also performed her spay so that this sweet older lady will never have to carry another litter again," Power continued.
"The puppies are doing very well. Cream has been struggling with lactation, but her pups have been receiving supplemental feedings and are growing into chunky little babies. Cream has also recovered wonderfully from her surgery."
Following the cesarean, Cream and her puppies were taken into foster care to ensure they are comfortable and can receive one-on-one care. The Dogs' Refuge Home wanted to ensure she made a quick recovery so she could finally start living the life she deserves.
While she was incredibly nervous in her foster home initially, she quickly grew in confidence. "Her carer let us know though that Cream has completely blossomed and come out of her shell," Power told Newsweek.
The senior dog has gone from cowering in the corner, to sprawling out on the bed and enjoying snuggles.
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The puppies aren't available for adoption yet, but once surpass 8 weeks old, the rescue organization will find the perfect homes for each of them. Prospective owners must be aware of the responsibilities that come with adopting a puppy and be prepared to do lots of training and socialization.
Power said: "We are not yet aware of the perfect home for Cream, but she deserves to live out her retirement being loved and spoilt. Once the puppies have been weaned, Cream will have time in her foster home to settle and adjust before returning to the refuge for a behavior assessment. She will then be available for adoption.
"Given the massive response to our posts about her, we have no doubt people will be interested," she continued.
Indeed, they have been sharing videos of Cream on social media (@dogsrefugehome on Instagram and TikTok). A clip showing what the senior dog endured has gone viral with over 210 views on Instagram, and 36,400 views on TikTok at the time of writing.
The online response to Cream's story is beyond anything the refuge anticipated, but Power hopes it will shine a light on the reality of backyard breeding. Sadly, Cream's experience is not unique and there are plenty more pups just like her waiting for a loving family.
After all, Power notes that "a rescue truly is the best breed."
She said: "When looking to add a new furry family member, please never buy from backyard breeders. Cream and so many other homeless dogs are a direct result of the demand for backyard breeders. There are so many wonderful dogs waiting in rescues for their chance at a forever home."
The social media posts about Cream have amassed hundreds of comments in just a matter of days.
One Instagram user wrote: "Heartbreaking to know her history. Elated to know she is free from the cruelty that has ruled her life."
Another person replied: "Cream deserves a beautiful senior life now."
While another comment reads: "Poor sweet girl. I'm glad she's safe and being cared for. Bring on your new best life!"
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