It’s a first birthday party with a difference and one these playful pups thought they’d never see.
As just a year ago, and only days old, they were cruelly left for dead after being dumped in a plastic box in Bathgate, West Lothian.
But luckily a passer-by found them, took them to a local vets before they were released into the care of the Scottish SPCA Glasgow animal rescue and rehoming centre.
It was touch and go for the seven sausage Labrador cross pups who needed round the clock feeding which included milk every two hours through the night.
But thanks to the care and commitment of our staff not only were they nursed back to health they are now thriving.
Such is the remarkable story of their survival, our staff wanted to reunite siblings, Whirlwind, Mylo, Mavis, Orla, Bueller, Matty and Sully to celebrate their first birthday.
Lesley Morgan, one of the animal care assistants looking after the pups said: “It’s fantastic to see all the puppies playing with each other today. Celebrating their first birthday is something we at the centre couldn’t have dreamed of when they first came to us.
“I have such a strong bond with the pups as myself and two other colleagues hand reared them - I am just so happy that not only did they survive but started to thrive!
“The first two weeks of life involved round the clock feeding as that’s what they would have done if there mother had been with them.
“Once they got to around week 3 – 4 we could introduce weaning them onto puppy food so the time between feeds extended meaning we could all actually get a bit more sleep!
“Hand rearing is so rewarding but is hard work. But when I see the pandemonium and chaos of this party I wouldn’t change a thing – it was so worth it!
The puppies have all since been rehomed with Lesley and another staff member adopting a dog each.
Lesley says: “I named my pup Whirlwind as he rules my house and is a force of nature!
“He has six fur brothers and sisters ranging from a Jack Russell to a 50kg Rottweiler.
“But he’s absolutely no fear and will happily go and steal anybody toys! He definitely has dachshund traits and loves the sound of his own voice.”
The other puppies are Orla, who lives with children and never leaves their sides.
Mavis, who adores her fur brothers and sister, especially Mr Towzer the cat.
Sully who lives with two other dogs although Gus the chihuahua still rules his house.
Bueller belongs to Jodie, one of the animal care assistants who looked after him while Mylo is the only animal in his home and is adored by his whole family.
Lesley says: “Rehoming Whirlwind has been a fantastic experience and has made my whole family complete. I would urge anyone thinking of getting an animal to give us a call so we can give advice and look for some suitable animals that need a forever home.”
If you or someone you know can offer an animal a new home then please visit our website
