Tulip was found as a stray on 28th August. When she was brought to the rescue centre, her rescuers had no idea she was carrying a big secret!
A heartbreaking discovery
Kathryn Custer is one of the volunteers at the centre who has been looking after Tulip.
A short while ago, they noticed blood in Tulip's kennel and... an unconscious puppy beside her. Sadly, the little one was stillborn.
The vet examined her as an emergency and confirmed there were no other puppies.
Since then, the rescuers have been showering Tulip with love and care, but they need to take some precautions.
Tulip is reactive towards the other dogs at the centre, so the staff believe it's best to keep her separate while she heals.
A powerful maternal instinct
The rescuers gave Tulip several soft toys, and each time, she tries to nurse them.
Recently, Kathryn was caring for a kitten in the same room as Tulip. As soon as the kitten started to cry, Tulip jumped up and began to whine.
Kathryn realised that the dog was very worried about the kitten.
The volunteer had the idea of gently bringing the kitten over to Tulip's kennel. Tulip immediately began to lick him gently. She is very reassuring with him and the other kittens at the centre.
Viewers were moved to tears by the video: "She knew the little kitten needed a mum."
Another commented: "So sweet that she tried to help calm him down."
Although Tulip adores the kittens, the rescuers don't think it's safe to put them in her kennel.
Hopefully, with time, the sweet dog will gain confidence around the other animals at the rescue centre!
@brandnewkathryn before anyone asks, she cannot have a kitten as she is severely dog reactive and would likely accidentally trample one. but every time she hears one cry she cries. this was likely her first litter which is why she only had one that did not make it. but her hormones are still going. end backyard breeding. #dogtok #dogsoftiktok #puppy #kitten #shelterdog #adoptdontshop #fosterneeded ♬ Choking on Flowers - Fox Academy
