From Abandonment to Rescue
Salem’s life took a turn for the worse when her family decided they no longer wanted her, leaving her in the care of a neighbor in rural Mississippi. Uncertain about her future, Salem’s situation improved when the neighbor contacted Happy Tails Canine Rescue (HTCR), an organization based in Memphis, Tennessee. The rescue immediately took Salem in and quickly discovered her gentle and sweet nature. When HTCR announced Salem was available for adoption, they received numerous applications.
A Shocking Discovery During a Routine Checkup
Before placing Salem with her ideal family, HTCR ensured she received necessary medical care, including treatment for malnutrition, a foot injury, and parasites. She was then adopted by a loving family, ready to give her a fresh start. However, during a routine checkup prior to a scheduled spay surgery, a shocking discovery was made: Salem was pregnant. This unexpected news surprised everyone, especially considering Salem did not appear to have a noticeably large belly.
The Miracle of a Singleton Puppy
The surprises didn’t end there. When an X-ray was performed to determine the number of puppies, the results were astounding: Salem was carrying only one puppy. This rare occurrence, known as a singleton pregnancy, was completely unexpected. The mystery surrounding Salem’s seemingly small size while pregnant was later solved when a DNA test revealed she was 95% Great Pyrenees, explaining the single, but likely large, puppy.
A Happy Ending for Mother and Pup
Despite the potential complications associated with singleton pregnancies, Salem’s puppy, named Astrid, was born perfectly healthy. Both Salem and Astrid received excellent care from their new family. Salem nurtured her puppy until she was ready for new adventures. HTCR plans to spay both Salem and Astrid, with Astrid eventually being placed for adoption through their rescue. Salem’s story is a heartwarming tale of resilience, unexpected twists, and the happy ending that comes from compassionate intervention. It also highlights the importance of thorough veterinary care and the surprises that can sometimes arise in animal rescue.
