When Ginger was reached by a BC SPCA Animal Protection Officer, this gentle Retriever-Irish setter mix had already survived more than any animal should have to face. Tethered in place with only an inadequate, makeshift shelter and the bare ground for comfort, this mother was desperately trying to raise her tiny puppies in extreme outdoor conditions and –25° temperatures.

Ginger and her three puppies are safe today thanks to this community. It’s the kind of safety that only exists because people like you care so deeply for animals who have no one else.

With no food or water in reach, Ginger was doing all she could for her young family. She was exhausted and heartbreakingly thin. While her three puppies are also underweight, considering the state of their mum, it’s clear she has given them every ounce of her energy. It’s hard to imagine the strength it took for her to keep going, but we are so grateful she did. Now with your love, she can experience the life she deserves.

The night they were rescued, this family were taken straight to the vet to be assessed. Given how emaciated Ginger is, the team will need to be extra cautious with monitoring her intake of food and water. As with all animals in such an extreme condition, the biggest concern is Ginger developing refeeding syndrome where her body becomes overwhelmed after being starved for so long. This can have devastating outcomes, including her system beginning to shut down. She will be on a strict feeding plan to help her slowly build weight without shocking her body.

It can be hard to believe that Ginger is such a sweet, calm and loving dog considering everything in her past. As you’ll see from many of these photos, all she wants is for someone to hold her paw. A gesture of gratitude? Maybe. An ask for comfort? Most definitely.

Not only is Ginger emaciated, she’s also suffering from frostbite on her teats. It must have been so painful to feed her babies considering how black and cracked the skin around them is. Thankfully at eight weeks old her puppies no longer need to feed from her. Their care team have decided to separate them to give Ginger the space and time to focus her energies on her own healing.

The puppies were placed directly with a loving foster family to receive care in a home environment, a comfort they had never yet experienced in their young lives. Since the foster parents are busy focusing on taking care of these young animals, we only have a few photos to share with you.

As you can see, these little ones are timid and often retreat to the comfort of their crate to feel safe. It’s no surprise given their harsh life so far, but we look forward to teaching them how to trust and be curious about the world around them. Your kindness and love can help them grow into confident, playful pups.

This family’s healing journey has a long road ahead, but their future is finally beginning. With your compassionate help, it will be a bright one. Please make a kind donation towards their care, and ensure other animals like them receive the chance of a happy holiday this year.

It’s heartwarming to witness the lives of animals being transformed everyday thanks to the care and kindness of this community. You are a vital part of that.