Rescuer Finds Abandoned Dog Family

Shocked Rescuer Discovers Dog Family in Abandoned House

Lastest Updated February 13, 2025

Every day, rescuers encounter heart-wrenching situations involving animals, particularly dogs.

Kristen Gamble, who co-founded One Mutt At a Time Rescue in Riverside, California, recently witnessed a neighbor’s social media post about a dog family trapped in an abandoned house after their owner died.

Upon seeing the video, she sprang into action without hesitation.

The conditions inside that Phelan home were dire and alarming.

This dedicated woman exemplifies the compassion and bravery found in those who rescue animals from distressing circumstances.

Bulldog’s Shocking Conditions

Kristen experienced shock as she stepped into the house.

The sight was far worse than what she had seen in the video shared by a neighbor.

A heartbreaking scene awaited her inside, especially concerning the dogs trapped there for six weeks without proper care.

They looked extremely thin and frail after being left alone for so long, which struck Kristen deeply.

Before entering, she reached out to the homeowner’s daughter who welcomed her inside despite her own difficult situation.

Thankfully, a neighbor had been feeding these dogs during that tough week but eventually knew help was urgently needed due to their alarming state.

Kristen described the home as unfit for the dogs.

The floors were soaked with urine, creating a dangerous situation where they might collapse.

While a neighbor set up a barrier to keep the dogs confined upstairs, Kristen and her fellow rescuers moved carefully up the stairs.

The sounds of moaning and barking guided them toward their goal, each step revealing more about the urgent need for help.

mother dog feeding many puppies
Source: ROCKY Kanaka

Upon arrival, rescuers encountered nine playful puppies with their parents.

The mother appeared to be a small Shepherd mix, while the father showed traits of both Corgi and Husky breeds.

Assumptions about the puppies’ age suggested they were around six weeks old, having lived in a difficult environment since birth.

Lacking collars or identification, the team chose rescue names for the adult dogs: Klara for the mother and Kolbi for the father.

This decision allowed them to honor these animals as they sought new homes filled with care and love.

Each puppy radiated innocence despite their tough start in life.

two very sweet dogs
Source: ROCKY Kanaka

Klara, Kolbi, and their children found hope after enduring a long struggle in a desperate situation.

Their journey toward safety became possible because of the kindness shown by compassionate individuals.

These generous hearts played a crucial role in guiding them away from despair.

As they traveled together, feelings of relief replaced the weight of fear that had burdened them for so long.

A brighter future awaited as they moved forward with newfound strength and support from those who cared deeply for their well-being.

New Hope For This Family

two dogs in a car
Source: ROCKY Kanaka

The dog family quickly moved from the rescue center in Riverside, California.

Kristen worked hard to find them a better home.

Her friend, Vanessa Traufler-Samarripa, a volunteer and Board Member at One Mutt at a Time, stepped up to help.

Despite already caring for ten foster cats and four dogs herself, she welcomed all 11 dogs into her home without hesitation.

This act of kindness highlighted Vanessa’s love for animals and commitment to helping those in need.

Their journey toward a brighter future began with such compassion and generosity.

Joy filled her heart as she watched the puppies, their eyes shining with love and hope.

The happiness of the parents added to her delight, knowing they felt relief about their children's brighter future.

Each puppy brought a sense of warmth that made everything feel right again.

Love surrounded them all in that moment, creating an atmosphere of peace and comfort.

Seeing those joyful faces reminded her how important it is to care for one another in difficult times.

A bond formed among them all, weaving together shared feelings of optimism and support.

Hope shines brightly for this family searching for their forever homes.

Belief in their future happiness feels strong, suggesting that joy is just around the corner.

The anticipation builds as each day passes, bringing them closer to finding a place to call their own.

Sophie Carter

Sophie Carter

Founder & Canine Care Specialist

Expertise

Canine Behavior and Training, Dog Health and Nutrition, Puppy Development, Rescue and Rehabilitation, Community Outreach for Animal Welfare

Education

University of California, Davis

  • Degree: Bachelor of Science in Animal Science
  • Focus: Comprehensive education in animal biology, behavior, and welfare, specializing in companion animals. Gained practical experience in canine health, nutrition, and training techniques.

Bergin College of Canine Studies

  • Program: Advanced Canine Behavior Certificate
  • Focus: Specialized training in dog behavior, including the latest understanding of social structures in dogs and debates on topics such as dominance. This course encourages critical thinking about canine behavior.

Sophie Carter is the founder and canine care specialist at cutiepuppie.com, a platform dedicated to improving the lives of dogs and their humans. With a degree in Animal Science from the University of California, Davis, and advanced training in canine behavior from Bergin College of Canine Studies, Sophie combines scientific knowledge with real-world experience.

Through cutiepuppie.com, Sophie shares her expertise in dog health, training, and rescue, offering practical tips and heartwarming stories. Her work focuses on strengthening the bond between dogs and their owners while promoting adoption and animal welfare.

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