Celeste and her five puppies were abandoned by her owner and are now being cared for on Vancouver Island by the BC SPCA.(BC SPCA)

By NanaimoNewsNOW Staff

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— Editors note: This article contains a graphic image some readers might find disturbing.

NANAIMO — A two-year-old dog and her five puppies are now being cared for by the BC SPCA after being found on the streets of Nanaimo.

Celeste and her puppies were recently found living outdoors after it’s believed she was abandoned by her owners.

Bonnie Pequin of the Nanaimo and District SPCA says despite the tough circumstances, Celeste was doing all she could to care for her puppies.

“She was living outdoors and starving, but she was obviously doing everything she could to try to feed her puppies and keep them safe.”

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She said they believe the puppies are believed to be about 5-weeks old, and Celeste was abandoned while she was pregnant.

Due to her low body weight, Celeste is on a strict “refeeding” program which helps to slowly reintroduce nutrients back into her system.

Celeste was found abandoned on the streets, wasting away as she cared for her five puppies. (BC SPCA)

“We have to do this gradually because when animals are this emaciated overfeeding can have deadly results,” said Pequin.

Celeste’s foster mom said despite her situation, she is a calm and gentle dog who enjoys interactions with her family members and other dogs. “I lay on the floor and she comes over and puts her head on me and just looks at me with the most loving and kind eyes. She is such a good girl!”

Celeste will be in the care of the BC SPCA for at least another month until she is able to reach her normal body weight, and then will be spayed and put up for adoption.

The puppies should be available to adopt in the new year. SPCA staff encourages anyone interested in the puppies to check out the website for details rather than phoning their office.

Pequin says no animal should be left outside without food or shelter to fend for themselves, especially at this time of the year.

“We are so thankful that Celeste and her puppies are warm and safe and getting the care that they need this Christmas.”

Reports of animal cruelty can be placed to the BC SPCA at: 1-855-622-7722.

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