A small act of kindness can transform everything.
Cholula, a devoted Pitbull mother caring for eight tiny puppies, was one of those spirits longing for help. After giving birth at a California shelter, she was drained both in body and heart from the weight of motherhood. Still, her love for her little ones never faltered.
At the very moment she needed comfort most, her path crossed with Thomas and Alicia, a compassionate couple from Los Angeles. They opened their home to Cholula and her pups, surrounding them with the warmth and care she had been waiting for all along.
A Tired Mother Finds The Help She Needed Most
Love often leads us to unexpected places. For Thomas and Alicia, that meant embracing the chaos of nine dogs without hesitation.
Despite knowing the sleepless nights and busy days ahead, they chose compassion over convenience and brought Cholula and her pups home.
“Love makes you do insane things. Please welcome mama Cholula, and babies Tapatia, Chili, Chipotle, Tabasco, Siracha, Valentina, Texas Pete, and Louisiana Crystal,” Thomas shared on Instagram.
With help from Wallis Annenberg PetSpace, the couple welcomed the furry family and immediately made adjustments to their home. Thomas converted his office into a warm, quiet nursery where Cholula could care for her puppies in peace.
Though gentle and loving, Cholula was visibly exhausted. Nursing took a toll on her body, and some nights, Thomas had to gently lift her and carry her to bed because she was too tired to walk.
Five Weeks Of Tender Care And Growth
Despite her fatigue, Cholula remained affectionate and trusting, allowing Thomas and Alicia to care for her and her pups with ease.
Over the next five weeks, the couple watched the puppies grow, opening their eyes, learning to crawl, and eventually tasting solid food. As soon as they were weaned, Cholula’s energy returned.
She began to play again, enjoying time with Thomas, Alicia, and their resident dog, Ruby. For the first time in weeks, she could rest and simply be herself.
Joyful Days And A Bittersweet Goodbye
A post shared by Thom McCallum (@thomohawk)
Cholula’s final days in foster care were filled with sunshine and play. She ran through the yard with Ruby and her puppies, soaking up every joyful moment.
But soon, it was time for the next chapter. Cholula and her pups were ready to find their forever homes. Saying goodbye was emotional for Thomas and Alicia, who had grown deeply attached.
“She is perfect. And yes my heart is breaking but it will mend. And there will be another mama and puppies that we can help. And the cycle won’t break,” Thomas expressed on Instagram.
Cholula returned to Wallis Annenberg PetSpace, where her wait for a permanent home didn’t last long.
Before long, Cholula was adopted by a loving couple who gave her the life she had always deserved.
“Happy tails to our beautiful girls Piggy, Cholula, Jasmine and so many others who have waited patiently for their perfect forever home,” the PetSpace team shared.
Now the only dog in her new home, Cholula enjoys endless affection and attention. After weeks of selfless motherhood and quiet strength, she finally gets to be the center of someone’s world.
