Aid Sought For Newborn Puppies Rescued From Desert, Suffering From Pneumonia

MISSION VIEJO, CA — The Mission Viejo Animal Services Center sought the public's help Friday in getting monetary donations to help save the lives of seven puppies rescued from the desert.

According to the center, MVAS staff moved the six-week-old puppies and their mom from the Coachella Valley Animal Shelter to the Mission Viejo shelter this week through the "Mission for Home Rescue Program," funded by nonprofit DAWG.

While the puppies and mom initially seemed healthy, over the last six days, all seven pups have developed upper-respiratory symptoms and pneumonia.

"Three of our wonderful local veterinarians have begun hospitalization during the day, and two of our local emergency hospitals are caring for them overnight, but all seven need extensive 24-hour supportive care including multiple antibiotics, IV fluids, radiographs and nebulization to help them breath," Animal Services Director Brynn Lavison told Patch.

"Although our partner veterinarians are very generous with discounting their services for our homeless pets, the treatment for all seven pups will be extensive. Our shelter and DAWG are committed to their care, but we cannot do it alone."

Residents can help support these pups with a monetary donation, big or small, by visiting DAWG.org or using the following QR code to donate via Zelle.