Seven abandoned puppies, initially misidentified as Staffordshire bull terriers but later confirmed to be Shih Tzus, have been successfully rehomed after receiving extensive care from the Blue Cross charity. The vulnerable pups were discovered by a member of the public under a bush in Abingdon, Oxfordshire, when they were only about a month old.
Upon their discovery, the puppies were first taken to the Oxfordshire Animal Sanctuary before being transferred to the Blue Cross's rehoming centre in Burford. At such a young age, they still required their mother's milk, necessitating intensive bottle-feeding from the dedicated team at the charity. Anouska Ashmead-Bartlett, admissions coordinator at Blue Cross Burford, highlighted the critical timing of their rescue, stating that their chances of survival alone would have been very low.
The puppies, named Bernie, Tilly, Hettie, Betsy, Harold, Sandy, and Norman, presented with several health concerns. They needed treatment for eye conditions and nasal discharge, with some exhibiting signs of aspiration and lethargy, which raised worries about potential pneumonia. Ms Ashmead-Bartlett noted that while the exact circumstances of their abandonment remain unknown, it is possible they originated from a breeder's litter that could not be sold.
She further explained that flat-faced breeds, such as Shih Tzus, are inherently prone to certain health conditions, including various eye disorders and infections. Despite these challenges, the Blue Cross team provided the necessary medical attention and care. Now aged six weeks, all seven puppies have successfully recovered and been placed in loving new homes.
The charity expressed its delight at the positive outcome for the pups. Ms Ashmead-Bartlett conveyed her joy, stating, "We're delighted to see these pups get the happy ending they deserve in loving new homes. Without being found when they were, their story could have ended very differently." This successful rehoming underscores the vital role charities play in animal welfare across the UK.