Eleven Puppies Rescued from Freezing Conditions in Regina

A group of eleven puppies was discovered abandoned outside the Regina Humane Society in Regina, Canada, during extremely cold conditions on December 4, 2023. A staff member found the puppies, approximately seven weeks old, inside a blue plastic container at around 05:00 CST. The temperature at the time was a chilling -11 C, and the puppies were cold and wet, huddled together for warmth.

According to Bill Thorn, the organization’s marketing and public relations director, the group size likely contributed to their survival. “If there had been one or two in there, it might have gone differently,” Thorn stated. Once brought inside, the puppies were warmed up and dried off, receiving close observation and treatment from the shelter staff. While some required treatment for worms, all appeared to be healthy otherwise.

The puppies, believed to be a shepherd mix, are expected to grow to medium size. Staff members have affectionately named them after popular songs, including Dolly Parton’s “Jolene,” Michael Jackson’s “Billie Jean,” and “Mr. Bojangles.” If their health continues to improve, the shelter plans to put them up for adoption within the next week or two.

The Regina Humane Society has reiterated that abandoning animals outside its facility is “never acceptable.” Thorn emphasized that those needing to surrender pets should utilize available resources. “If people are not able to look after their pets, we have different resources on how they can rehome them on their own. At the end of the day, if surrender is the best option, we’ll work with you; you can bring them in,” he explained.

The humane society also urges individuals to surrender pets during business hours. Scheduling an appointment is necessary due to the shelter’s limited space. “Sometimes we may say, ‘Can you wait a day or two until we get some space?’ if we know some animals are adopted and heading home, so that we do have the capacity for them, especially if there’s more than one,” Thorn added.

While puppies can be housed together, they still represent “11 mouths to feed,” Thorn noted. With the holiday season approaching, the Regina Humane Society is launching various fundraising initiatives. Thorn remarked that this period is the “biggest season for donations.” Those interested in supporting the shelter can explore the holiday gift catalog, participate in the holiday 50/50 draw—currently at $10,000—or contribute to the Home for the Holidays adoption campaign. More information is available on the Regina Humane Society website.