In April 2023, Living Free Animal Sanctuary came to the rescue of three adorable puppies from the overwhelmed Coachella Valley Animal Campus. With shelters struggling to cope with the increasing number of dogs and cats, these little pups caught our attention. Our Puppy Palace was ready to provide the care they needed to become healthy and adoptable companions.

From the moment they arrived at the sanctuary, these lively puppies stole the hearts of our staff and volunteers. We affectionately named them the Powerpuff Puppies, after the beloved characters from the Powerpuff Girls cartoon. Little did they know that their journey would be filled with unexpected challenges.

While initially very happy and healthy puppies, within a week of their arrival they started to show signs of illness. Bubbles, the smallest of the litter, was diagnosed with a bad case of giardia and hookworm. Soon after, Blossom also started having symptoms of being sick. Worried for their well-being, our dedicated kennel staff wasted no time in taking all three of the puppies to the veterinarian.

Tragically, Blossom was diagnosed with parvo, a virus that can be deadly in even the strongest of puppies. By some stroke of luck, Buttercup and Bubbles tested negative for the parvo virus that afflicted their sister. Nonetheless, out of abundance of caution, our kennel decided to treat all three as if they were positive. Buttercup, the healthiest of the trio, returned to the sanctuary for close monitoring, while Bubbles remained at the vet, weakened by her battle against giardia and hookworm.

Days turned into an emotional roller coaster as Blossom’s condition fluctuated. By day three of intensive care, she started to rapidly deteriorate. With heavy hearts, the kennel made the incredibly difficult decision to humanely euthanize Blossom. She had fought bravely, but the devastating effects of parvo proved too much for her delicate body. Our sanctuary mourned the loss of a puppy full of potential. RIP Blossom (photo below).

However, the Powerpuff Puppies’ story doesn’t end in tragedy. Living Free remained steadfast in our commitment to the remaining pups, Bubbles and Buttercup. Through tireless efforts from our veterinary team, Bubbles made a remarkable recovery. She was joyously reunited with her sister Buttercup, who had remained healthy throughout the ordeal.

Today, our kennel is filled with happiness as both Bubbles and Buttercup thrive in their newfound health. Bubbles has regained her energy and playfulness, leaving her past struggles behind. She is gaining weight daily, although remains much smaller than her sister. Buttercup enjoys the company of her sister, their playful bond showcasing the resilience that unites them.

The tale of the Powerpuff Puppies reminds us of the unpredictable nature of animal rescue. It highlights the unwavering compassion and determination required to overcome unforeseen challenges. While we mourn the loss of Blossom, we find solace and inspiration in cherishing her legacy while celebrating the remarkable triumph of Bubbles and Buttercup.