By Sue Wambolt, Contributing Writer
Region? – Baypath Humane Society in Hopkinton recently became the temporary home to a pair of abandoned pit bull mix dogs, both estimated to be between 2 and 3 years old. The doggie duo were discovered by residents who found them wandering on Wilson Street in Hopkinton and called the shelter. When staff set out to find the dogs they were able to find the male, whom they named “Mush” – but his “mate” proved elusive. “Blush,” as she was later named, was hiding in Weston Nurseries, scared and alone until a staff member brought Mush to the scene. Mush saved the day, giving his girl Blush the confidence to come running to safety.
Upon medical examination, it was evident that both needed medical attention. Blush arrived in rough shape, having been out in the elements alone with no food or water. It was also determined that she had just recently given birth to puppies. Both had red, irritated skin which needed medical attention. They also needed vaccinations and needed to be spayed/neutered.
“The pair is getting much TLC at the shelter,” said Liz Jefferis, Baypath's executive director.? “Mush and Blush's love for each other has made an impression on everyone they'se met, and the affectionate pair have quickly became favorites among shelter staff and volunteers.”
The dogs have been enrolled in positive, motivational dog training classes to work on their manners at Surefire Dogs Training Center in Westborough. According to Jefferis, both do well on leash with a harness, are incredibly treat-motivated and love to be with people.
“When Blush first came she was a little hesitant with strangers – understandably so after being dumped on the road, taken from her puppies and outside for an extra day without Mush,” said? Jefferis. “Since then, she has really warmed up and is a veritable lapdog! Mush has been immediately fabulous with everyone he meets. He is excitable around other dogs, but we have been working with him on group walks. A little patience and a bunch of hot dogs goes a long way. We are just trying to instill some more confidence in him!”
Both Mush and Blush are now healthy and available for adoption.
“The shelter is anxious to find homes for these sweet souls,” Jefferis said. “They need a quiet foster home or forever home where they can thrive. Much as they would like to keep Mush and Blush together, if this isn's possible, they can be adopted or fostered separately.”
Because of the commitment necessary to adopt two dogs, Baypath is willing to forgo their $320 per dog adoption fee and is asking just $200 for the pair in the hopes of keeping the dogs together – and giving their “tale” a happy ending.
Anyone who is interested in meeting Blush and Mush is invited to visit the shelter at 5 Rafferty Road in Hopkinton any weekday between 11:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.
For more information call 508-435-6938.
To see a video of the two dogs in action, visit www.home4lovebugs.org.