It was an unusual day for the vet conducting an ultrasound on this female dog that visited her clinic. She moved the wand around gently, trying to make out what she was seeing on screen but couldn’t make a definitive conclusion. In fact, she was also confused about the results. She repeated the procedure several times to make sure she wasn’t just imagining things.
But there it was — and what she was viewing on the screen did not change at all. In her many years of practice as a veterinarian, this was her first time experiencing anything like this. It was a curious thing on the screen and she wanted to explore more, but something also tells her that time is crucial and that she must act fast to ensure the dog was safe.
The Important Choice
When Mariesa and Chris finally decided they would adopt a pet, they decided that having a dog would be best. They went to a number of dog shelters in the area in the hope of finding that one canine that would capture their hearts. The agreement was that they would choose just one dog this time because they already have several rescues at home.
However, choosing among the many pets that needed their love and attention proved to be difficult. When they chanced upon this mother in one part of the kennel, all with her innocent look and almost pleading eyes, they fell in love immediately.
Belly of Puppies
It was fate that led the couple to this particular dog, who upon seeing them immediately approached and started to lick their hands. She was pregnant and Mariesa could see that it was this pet that needed the most care among the others. Because she had unborn pups in her belly, it was only right that she give birth in a loving place where she and her babies would be properly cared for.
Right then and there, they decided that this brown, pregnant pit bull was the one. But the story doesn’t end there just yet, as what they found out later made them rethink their decision to adopt that would change all their lives forever.
Bred and Then Abandoned
Pit bulls are known to be fierce and tough, but the story of this pregnant canine was far from this idea of strength. Storie, what Mariesa named her, had a sad past.
She was bred by somebody who had a backyard dog business, but when the owners found that it was expensive to take care of pets, they left the animals at the nearest shelter, instead.
In Need of Love
Storie needed more love than ever, especially with her condition. There was no way that Chris and Mariesa would leave her at the shelter like that and vowed to make things right for their new family member.
It was hard enough that she was carrying pups in her belly and a shelter definitely was not the right place for her to give birth, much more raise her babies. However, that was not only problem with Storie. As it turns out, her condition was much more complicated.
Huge Pit Bull Fans
Chris and Mariesa weren’t just pet lovers — they were huge pit bull fans. You could often find them going from shelter to shelter looking at dogs to rescue. It is always tough to walk into a shelter and see all those dogs but not be able to take them home.
Rescuing dogs from shelters was not new to the couple but it is often the pit bull that catches their affections. For whatever reason whenever they see a pit bull in need of rescue they swoop in to save it. In fact, they have a whopping 10 dogs at home.
“Hotel” For Dogs
When you have multiple dogs like this couple, one of the first orders of business is their sleeping conditions. For a household with 10 or so canines, you would need to have plenty of beds to ensure every single one of them is comfortable. In the case of Chris and Mariesa, they got what they called a “megabed” to accommodate every one.
According to Chris, their dogs preferred to sleep on the bed. Since they were always being pushed out to the couch, they finally decided to build a dedicated bed that’s 7 feet wide and 14 feet long for all their pets to share. The couple wanted to sleep in their own bed, too, and found that this idea solved many problems when it comes to bedtime.
Something New
As their pet family grew, the couple realized that there was so much more they can do for rescued dogs. When they found out what Storie had been suffering through, even with plenty of pet experience on their belts, her case was something they haven’t encountered before.
Nothing could have prepared them for the ordeal that their new family member would be going through. After adopting dozens of dogs they thought they have seen it all, but this event would test their capabilities…
Loving Pet Parents
The couple no doubt shared an intense love for animals. In one interview with the local press, Mariesa admitted that some of her relationships in the past did not work out — and that she chose to leave — because her partners then were not as loving to pets as she was.
Most of them did not understand why she was so passionate about dogs, and some of them even objected whenever she brought home new rescues. It was always difficult for her to have and keep a partner as they always felt she was choosing the dogs over them.
This Time, It Was Different
When she met Chris she knew in heart that she had found the right man. Chris was a a fellow dog lover who was just as obsessed as she was with pets as she was and she had finally met her match!
Together, their affection for each and their animals grew — and so did the number of dogs in their shared home. They loved spending time together as well as with their dogs and Chris, a dog lover himself, did not mind the amount of time she spent with all the dogs.
Friendly Faces In These Places
A lot of rescue centers and animal shelters deal with problems that go beyond their resources. This is the reason they cannot possibly care for all the animals they want to rescue no matter how much the staff might want to.
When Chris and Mariesa went to the Pibbles & More Animal Rescue, they noticed that there was one particular breed of dogs that was present in overwhelming numbers: pit bulls. They had a hard time believing that these friendly dogs did not have a loving home to call their own. The lovebirds did not know it then, but one of these creatures would change their lives.
A Reputation They Did Not Deserve
Pit bulls have received a terrible reputation, although this is nothing more than one big understanding. You see, the features of this dog breed would be a large head and a muscular physique, although this is not indicative of the risk they actually pose.
Even though this is the case, a lot of states have deemed it illegal to have a pit bull as a pet. That is the reason animal shelters take care of so many pit bulls and there is a growing number of pit bulls that are put down compared to other dog breeds.
Trying To Change The Stigma
Chris and Mariesa were both aware that this is the case, which is why they took in as much pit bulls as their resources allowed. They felt the need to rescue as many and save as many of them from being put down as they can. They couldn’t bare the though of these dogs losing their life based on a “stigma”.
They never witnessed any violence from their pets whatsoever. This only made them want to help the lovely dogs, although they did not have a clue what fate was planning for them.
Loving And Loyal Creatures
Even though pit bulls are thought to be the most dangerous breed of dog out there, no research has actually come up with findings to support this claim. The truth is that they can be loving and loyal like any other dog breed. Of course, they might behave badly when mistreated.
However, this does not mean they are predisposed to act like terrible creatures. These dogs are actually amazing creatures when you give them a chance. At the shelter, one special pit bull was going to prove everyone wrong.
The Pups Should Have Popped Out Already
The staff at the center informed Mariesa and Chris that it was high time for Storie to deliver the puppies. In fact, she should have given birth by then.
They did not know why it has not yet happened, especially since the pooch looked ready to pop. What a precarious situation! What could possibly be going on?
Life And Death
This animal-loving couple knew right away that this meant trouble for the poor pit bull. This was not a good situation and some tough decisions lie ahead for this couple.
They had to make a decision on the spot since it could make the difference between life and death for the dog and her unborn puppies. This decision was heart wrenching for the both of them…
Helping The Soon-To-Be Mom
Time was of the essence in this case. Storie needed to be taken care of right that instant, but the couple had to think it over some more as to what wast the best choice to make…
When they were talking to each other, Storie rested her beautiful face on her prospective human’s knee and pleaded with her eyes. It was something the couple could not ignore, and Mariesa came, at that point, to a quick decision then.
Big Dog Family
She knew she would be bringing Storie home, but was this actually the right choice? After all, this meant that the big family would get one more member – if not more!
This was going to a big challenge, that much was for sure. However, they would soon learn that things were more complex than they seemed.
The Perfect Solution
Even though they were aware that keeping Storie would mean taking care of an additional 10 dogs, they did not want the pregnant dog momma to be at the shelter for longer than she needs to be.
Mariesa wanted to help Storie and give her a safe space to deliver the pups. They did not want to risk Storie and the pups lives but ending up in the wrong hands…
An Idea
The couple started to talk about it and weighed the pros and cons of bringing home Storie. Without a doubt, it was not a practical idea as they already had so many dogs and a lot of responsibility on their plates.
However, Chris suggested something that made perfect sense for the situation at hand. It sure seemed like their best bet, both for their family and for Storie and the pups.
Foster Parents
He suggested that they would foster Storie and her puppies. However, this was only going to be temporary as the animal rescue team would then look for their forever homes.
This was a good idea since they could not afford to keep more pets with their eight other dogs. This would allow them to take care of Storie till she gave birth and ensure all the puppies found a home after.
Another Problem
The suggestion was a brilliant one, but the problems did not end there. They still had to find out what was wrong with the pregnancy. They thought that would be easy to figure out but it ended up being much more difficult.
What was the reason Storie had not yet give birth even though she was close to bursting? This was the next thing they had to tackle. They needed to give the pregnancy the attention it deserved.
Looking For Answers Online
This was the first time they have ever encountered anything like this. There must be some reason Storie was unable or unwilling to give birth to the babies.
Chris and Mariesa had been worrying about it, so they decided to go to the internet and look for a way to address the issue. Did they find anything of relevance over there?
Terrifying
Unfortunately, they did not find a lot of reassuring things online. In fact, they came out even more worried about the situation then when they first started to search!
Well, this is normally what happens when you look for answers online. Chris and Marie felt even more anxious about the whole thing and began to get very nervous about the whole situation at hand…
Relationship Between Trauma And Birth
Humans have a tendency to underestimate just how intelligent most animals actually are. Especially dogs who are some of the smartest animals there are.
When Mariesa and Chris started to look for answers, they found out why a dog might resist the delivery of her puppies. They even found a source that seemed to perfectly describe what was happening.
Stressful Conditions
What did they learn? Research showed that animals often experience a lot of stress and even trauma when they live in rescue shelters.
Of course, pregnant dogs are more vulnerable to this. While shelters have the intention of helping animals in need, they get crowded quickly. A crowded place is not the best environment for a pregnant dog. A loving home such as Chris and Mariesa’s can make a big difference.
Realizing How Dangerous The Situation Is
Chris and Mariesa started to read up about the matter some more and realize things could escalate further. There was a possibility that Storie would lose her puppies.
Not only that, but she might also lose her life! They certainly had no idea how bad thing were. Can you believe that this is not all?
Traumatic Experiences
Mariesa found out that pregnant dogs experiencing trauma get so worried about the pups that they could chose to refuse delivery completely.
This situation happens since they are under the impression that the babies would be at risk…
Off To The Vet
Chris and Mariesa were able to tell that this was a precarious situation. They had to bring the pregnant pooch to the vet as soon as they could.
This was important if they wanted to ensure the safety of the babies. They popped back in the car and drove to the nearest vet.
What The Ultrasound Showed
The vet conducted an ultrasound scan on the dog, but she saw unbelievable results. She quickly shook her head almost in astonishment at what she was looking it. She has never seen something like this before…
How could this even be possible? There must have been some kind of mistake, is the machine broken? Is the machine sending back false signals? What was she even looking at!
Something Isn’t Right
What she saw there would change things for the couple and the others involved. Mariesa picked up on the fact that something was not right and the vet seemed deeply concerned.
However, nothing about the results changed or disappeared, not the shapes nor the numbers… It was true. right. What was it now?
The Shock Of A Lifetime
The veterinarian took a deep breath before she delivered the news. She went into an explanation of the abnormality she found in Storie’s womb.
They had been expecting to see six puppies, but this did not align with the ultrasound results. There were way more puppies being shown on the ultrasound, something entirely out of the norm…
Frozen In Shock
The vet pointed to the outlines and then counted them for the couple. Chris and Mariesa then figured out what was happening.
They were now in shock as well. They were told that Storie would have six puppies, but the ultrasound revealed that this was not true. What exactly was going on?
A Development No One Expected
The vet did not expect this either. She tried to count again. After this, she gave it another round and even called in an assistant to double check her work.
The assistant confirmed that the results were always the same. At last, she figured out there was no choice but to tell them what it was…
Unexpected
Chris and Mariesa had been expecting six puppies, but the vet knew this was wrong. The pregnant dog was carrying not six puppies but was in fact carrying twelve!
Yes, that is twice the number of dogs they were expecting. At any rate, Storie had TWELVE puppies in her womb. How were they going to solve this mess?
Disbelief
The lovebirds could not believe what they just heard. How could this happen? Six dogs already sounded like too much but twelve?
Clearly, the problem was even more serious than they originally thought. Was Storie going to be okay? Was she going to deliver all twelve of her babies? Let us find out.
Go Home And Wait
Even the vet had no idea why Storie had yet to give birth to her large litter of puppies. This was troubling some of the most experience vets in the area as she had called on her colleagues for advice.
At the very least, the ultrasounds showed her that the puppies were all fine. That was a huge relief for everyone! What was next for them?
Preparation
The vet said that the best thing they could do was head home and get ready for the birth. If Storie still had not given birth after 48 hours, they should return for yet another examination.
Chris and Mariesa did not know it at the time, but Storie actually had a great reason to wait.
The Parents Are Anxious
You can probably imagine how stressed Chris and Mariesa had been at that moment. Storie was not only in danger of losing six babies but a dozen of these babies.
They could not help but feel anxious about the following 48 hours. Was Storie going to be all right if she failed to deliver the pups in that timeframe?
A Brilliant Idea
It is easy to see that this was a dangerous and terrible situation at the same time. However, there seemed to be nothing they could do for Storie.
The only thing left to do was make her feel at home. When they went home, Mariesa came up with a clever plan.
Giving Her A Space Of Her Own
By that point, Chris and Mariesa already went through a lot of articles about trauma and stress. They knew how hard things have been on Storie.
They tried to help her by giving her a very inviting space. Mariesa chose a spot in a spare bedroom. She even placed pillows and blankets for the dog.
Sanctuary
After that, they showed Storie her new sanctuary and prayed for the best. The could never have imagined what was going to happen next…
Chris and Mariesa gave it their all because they wanted to make it just right for the pooch. They even kept track of the room temperature and noise level in there.
Oblivious
The couple did not know that something incredible was going to happen there.
The two of them headed of to bed for the night and then went to see how Storie was doing upon waking up. They wanted to see if she was feeling better and more comfortable.
Extraordinary
As Mariesa and Chris headed to the room where they left the pit bull, they could hear some curious noises.
They hurried and entered the bedroom. They did not expect to see what they laid their eyes on!
During The Night
They entered the spare bedroom. Much to their delight, they found Storie in there with her 12 adorable puppies!
She was able to deliver them all while the two of them slept. What an incredible sight it was.
Thrilled
Mariesa and Chris were reduced to tears by what they saw. Who would have thought Storie was finally going to deliver the pups?
They were thrilled. Soon enough, they learned just why she waited so long.
A Dozen Puppies
When dogs give birth to puppies at the shelter, it often becomes stressful for both the mom and babies.
Storie was somehow aware that the shelter was not a good place for anyone to give birth in an environment like that one. This is the reason she decided to wait for someone like Chris and Mariesa
Less Than A Day
Isn’t it incredible that Storie only had to spend one whole day, even less, with Chris and Mariesa to feel comfortable around them?
She was so at home she even delivered her litter of puppies! What made it even more special was the fact that no one understands what was going on. Good job, Storie!
A Great Dog Mama
Storie was great when it came to looking after the puppies. Well, what else did you expect from the best dog mother in the entire world?
It did not take long before people started to file adoption cases for the dogs. The couple already knew that they would not get to keep the puppies for a long time. Was Storie going to be okay with letting the puppies go?
Puppies For Adoption
After several weeks, the puppies finally opened their eyes. Mariesa and Chris had been enjoying the time they had with the litter of puppies.
The babies took over the yard and goofed around with one another. You know what puppies are like! Storie was happy to have all of her pups with her. Sadly, the time came for them to say goodbye…
Waiting For A Little TLC
When Storie was taken to a good and secure environment, she was able to let her body do the work and deliver the puppies.
This was how she got to welcome the puppies, all twelve of them. However, what was next for her and the babies? Let us find out.
A Pack Of Her Own
It seems like Storie knew just what she needed to give birth to her babies. All she wanted was the feeling of protection and security!
The foster couple managed to give her these things, which was how she birthed her twelve strong puppies. She sure is one smart dog.
Heading For Their New Homes
It is impressive to hear that they managed to find foster parents willing to adopt the puppies when they were 10 weeks old.
Chris and Mariesa might have adored the babies, but they simply did not have the means to keep them. They had to give them up for adoption, sadly. It was a heartbreaking moment, but it was the right thing to do.
10 Weeks Old
When they were 10 weeks old, the puppies were brought to their new homes. We’re glad to hear that, but what would become of Storie?
The puppies were all in good hands now, but what about their mother? After risking her life for her children, this wonderful mother deserves only the best.
Her Forever Home
It is not all that surprising to hear that the story went viral when it was posted on Facebook. The inspiring story of Storie reached someone who fell in love with her right away.
This man then contacted Chris and Mariesa to schedule an appointment. He wanted to meet this lovely dog and then see from there. What did he have to say?
They All Found Homes!
He ended up loving Storie even more and decided to take her with him! Storie has, at long last, made her way to her forever home.
She and the rest of the puppies were then taken to their amazing homes. Not only that, but she also got spayed to prevent any more massive pregnancies. Let us hope she never has to go through anything like that ever again!
The Best Dog Mom
Even though Storie gave birth to a large number of puppies, she still remembered to give them the attention and love they deserved.
When she was still with them, she was the image of a perfect mom. Aren’t you excited to hear such a lovely thing?
The End Was Nearing
Chris and Mariesa were both happy and proud to see Storie accomplish such a big feat.
She even cleaned and nursed the puppies while she waited for them to reach a good health status. Sadly, the couple did not have much more time with them…
If Not For Them
The twelve pups all went to loving houses they now get to call their forever homes. They are glad this is the case because they will never run out of love and affection now.
Storie stayed with Chris and Mariesa until each of the puppies were taken. Her maternal instincts are still as bright as can be.
A Crucial Chance
If Mariesa and Chris failed to take a chance on her, some very terrible things would have happened to her and the babies.
We are happy that they took a chance on the incredibly pregnant dog they found in the crowded animal shelter. Otherwise, things would have gotten a much sadder ending. Whew!
A Happy Note
Even though the story of Storie had a happily ever after, there are so many dogs out there who will never get to find a forever home.
Shelters typically need plenty of help to take good care of the animals. If you are unable to foster a dog for some reason, you can do more by checking out your other options.
Helping Out
Of course, it is always a good idea to take in a new dog if you can. However, you can opt to donate money or spread the word about the shelter or rescue home.
These might sound like little things, but they will go a long way to help the people who work in the shelters.
The Mr. Mo Project
Mariesa and Chris are the founders of a nonprofit organization that looks after elderly and sick dogs. It is called the Mr. Mo Project.
The dogs that fall under these categories have a high risk of euthanasia, so the couple wants to look for places they could call their forever homes. The project also takes care of medical and living expenses. The “fospice” homes, meanwhile, provide care and love.
A Family Affair
If you can adopt or foster dogs, you should always keep this story in mind. There is no need to fret if you do not think you have enough bed space for all the dogs you want to adopt.
Should that ever happen, try to follow in the footsteps of Mariesa and Chris. Although the average king bed measures 6.6 feet long, theirs is nearly double that! This is an option you might want to consider.
Happy Holidays!
By this point, you should know better than anyone how much Mariesa and Chris love dogs. You can even check out the Instagram account for ‘The Mr. Mo Project’.
On that account, they posted this photo with a caption that read, “Happy Easter and Passover from our dog house to yours #happyeaster #happypassover #lifeinthedoghouse #mrmoproject #gomrmo #18dogsandcounting #72paws #rescuelife #shelterdogs #rescuesdog #seniordogrescue #adoptdontshop #multidoghousehold #siblinggoals #squadgoals #packlife #easterbunnies #easterpictures #love #proudparents”.
