Five Sick Puppies Left On The Road Show Rescuers Gratitude With Endless Kisses
Abandoned dogs face heartbreaking circumstances every day, with countless stories of neglect and overcrowded shelters.
In a world full of sad tales, a story of hope and rescue brings light.
Sick But Filled With Love
On a bright, sunny day in Vineland, New Jersey, a local resident came across a heartbreaking scene: five bald, sickly puppies huddled together on the roadside.
They were in terrible shape, but their spirits were not broken.
This kind-hearted passerby couldn’t leave them behind and immediately contacted the South Jersey Regional Animal Shelter for help.
The shelter sent an animal control officer, who, upon seeing the pups’ dire condition, rushed them to the vet rather than taking them directly to the shelter.
The vet found that the puppies were suffering from mange, eye infections, swollen feet, and open sores. Severely emaciated, it was clear they had been neglected for a long time before being cruelly abandoned.
Despite their painful condition, the puppies showed nothing but gratitude. They greeted their rescuers with wagging tails and gave affectionate kisses as if thanking them for their newfound care.
“They were all very sweet on intake, even with the condition that they were in,” said Kathleen Leary, director of operations for the South Jersey Regional Animal Shelter to The Dodo. “They were wagging their tails and licking our faces.“
Their loving behavior touched everyone involved and made it clear that these pups had a strong will to survive and thrive.
Slowly Getting Stronger
The puppies, estimated to be about 5 and a half months old, were likely a mix of Mastiff and Cane Corso, although their poor health made it hard to be certain.
Shelter staff ensured that the pups were given everything they needed—medicated baths, antibiotics, and eye treatments. Weekly vet checkups helped them steadily improve.
As the puppies began to recover and their fur grew back, they were given names inspired by Super Mario characters: Mario, Luigi, Bowser, and Princess Peach.
These little survivors were not only regaining their health but were also showing more of their sweet personalities every day.
Ready For Their Next Adventure
Once they were fully recovered, the shelter announced on its Facebook page that these brave puppies were ready for foster homes.
Their strong spirits shone through, and soon they were all matched with loving foster families.
“Their little personalities are [slowly] coming out, they all seem to be good with other dogs and love people,” Leary shared.
After everything they endured, these Super Mario pups were finally on their way to their forever homes.
While most were adopted without any issues, Luigi initially struggled to fit in with his new family and had to be returned to the shelter.
But fate had other plans for him—a woman’s son fell in love with Luigi at first sight, giving him the loving home he deserved.
This courageous canine crew has come a long way, from sickness and neglect to health and happiness.
With their bright futures ahead, there’s no limit to the joy they’ll bring to their new families.