San Marcos, Texas - A case that tugs at the heartstrings of dog lovers happened recently in San Marcos in Texas when nine newborn puppies were found abandoned and unprotected in a plastic tub.
"Free puppies" was written on the container – next to it, the desperate addition: "Can't afford sorry."
The helpless puppies were brought to the San Marcos Regional Animal Shelter at the beginning of January.
"Nine tiny neonate puppies were brought to our shelter after being found in a bucket labeled 'Free Puppies,'" read the rescue's viral social media post.
"It’s the kind of situation that stops you in your tracks – heartbreaking and incredibly urgent," they added.
"Puppies this young need immediate, around-the-clock care, and every minute truly matters."
The animals were only a few days old and had virtually no chance of survival without their mother, so staff at the shelter responded immediately and organized emergency care for them.
Several animal welfare organizations stepped in to help.
Despite the shocking start, there is still hope for the dogs
All nine puppies survived and are now being lovingly cared for. The shelter expressly thanked helpers and supporters from their area.
"Moments like this are a reminder that rescue really does take a village, and when people come together, lives are changed," it said.
In around eight weeks, the little dogs will be old enough to be placed and can begin the search for their forever families.