The number 13 might be unlucky for some, but it was a welcomed surprise to rescue dog Elsa when she gave birth to a huge litter of adorable puppies.
The 18-month-old terrier cross was heavily pregnant when she was rescued by RSPCA inspectors from Chelmsford and taken in by one of the branch's experienced fosterers.
Speaking about her astonishing birth, RSPCA branch manager, Kathy Butler, said: "We knew Elsa was expecting at least six but we were shocked when 13 arrived.
"Some were quite small but Elsa is a very attentive mum and has done a wonderful job so far.
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"We’re thrilled that all 13 are still with us and are getting bigger and stronger every day.
"However, it’s a lot of hard work for Elsa so we've been giving the pups extra bottle feeds.
"Mum only has 10 teats so we’ve been rotating them when they’re feeding to ensure they’re all getting plenty of food."
Bedlington terrier-cross, Elsa, was rescued by the RSPCA’s Essex South, Southend & District branch , based in Rochford, last month.
On March 8, she gave birth to more than double the amount of puppies than were expected, and all 13 of the litter are healthy and growing.
Taking care of these gorgeous puppies is hard work and also expensive, so the RSPCA is looking for dog lovers to show their support by sponsoring a puppy.
Sponsors will be able to suggest a Disney-themed name for their puppy - to go with their mum who was named after the Frozen character - and receive regular updates via a special Facebook group.
Kathy added: "Donations will also support our work to rescue, rehabilitate and rehome other dogs too.
"And we’d love to extend our sponsorship scheme to find sponsors for some of our older dogs and long-stay animals while they wait for their forever homes.
"We’re an independent charity and we have to raise all of our own funds so any help the public can give us is hugely appreciated."
To donate to help with the care of Elsa and her puppies, please visit the RSPCA's JustGiving page, or support the branches' work on their website.
Do you have a dog story to tell? Contact nia.dalton@reachplc.com.
