Pit bull mix gives birth to pile of puppies at B.C. SPCA animal centre

Ellie, one of three pit bull mixes taken in by animal protection officers, gave birth to 10 puppies, nine of which are thriving

Published Sep 17, 2024  •  2 minute read

Ellie, a pregnant pit bull mix taken in by the B.C. SPCA from a filthy, rat-infested home in Kelowna, has given birth to nine healthy puppies. Photo by B.C. SPCA

One of three adult pit bull mixes taken in by the B.C. SPCA from a rat-infested Kelowna home this summer has given birth to a bevy of healthy pups that will be available for adoption after they’re weaned.

The three dogs, one male and two female, were living in a filthy home with floors covered in dog feces and urine.

“This was a horrible situation for both the people living in the home and the dogs that were rescued,” said Amrika Tikasingh, manager of the B.C. SPCA’s South Okanagan—Similkameen animal centre.

Article content

“Large rats were seen jumping in and out of the windows and running throughout the home. The animal protection officers reported that the smell was overwhelming.”

Two of Ellie’s pups are ready for their close-up. Photo by B.C. SPCA

What’s worse, Tikasingh said the occupants of the home had been putting out dog food for the rats in a misguided attempt to care for them, too.

When the dogs were brought to the SPCA’s Penticton Veterinary Hospital in early August, an X-ray showed that Ellie was in the late stages of pregnancy. The other two, Henry and Sugar, were found to be in good health.

“Ellie was due to give birth quickly, so there wasn’t enough time to find a foster who could accommodate a pregnant mom and 10 puppies,” said Tikasingh. “She gave birth in the animal centre.”

Unfortunately, one of the puppies didn’t thrive, and Ellie found comfort in a soft squeeze toy that she carries around with her all the time. “She was clearly grieving the loss of her puppy,” said Tikasingh.

Ellie lost one of her pups and is comforting herself with a squeeze toy she carries everywhere. Photo by B.C. SPCA

Tikasingh called Ellie an “amazing mother,” and the puppies are all healthy. Ellie is underweight but is on her way to making a full recovery. A spay surgery will be scheduled once she’s ready.

“It is obvious that Ellie has had far too many litters for a dog of her age,” said Tikasingh. “This sweet girl with so much love to give needs a break from being pregnant.”

The puppies will be available for adoption once they reached eight weeks old, while Ellie will be available after surgery. Henry has found a new home and Sugar is available now.

Anyone who can help with the cost of treating Ellie, her pups and other animals in need can go to the donations page at spca.bc.ca.

Ellie is an ‘amazing mother’ who is taking good care of her pile of puppies, says the SPCA. Photo by B.C. SPCA

The puppies will be up for adoption once they reach eight weeks old. Photo by B.C. SPCA

[email protected]

Article content