Foxy the dog is enjoying motherhood in comfort, a far cry from how she spent her pregnancy.

According to Alaqua Animal Refuge of Freeport, Fla., Foxy was one of over 80 animals found in a “severe cruelty situation” in rural Florida. A heavily pregnant Foxy was discovered chained and standing in a dirt pen filled with “ankle-deep” filth. The canine was also covered in fleas. The 4-year-old German shepherd and the other animals at the site were removed from the “heartbreaking” conditions.

“We met law enforcement at the property and ended up getting 85 animals signed over to our organization when the owner was arrested. This was one of the worst cases I have seen in my 20+ years of animal welfare work,” Laurie Hood, the founder of Alaqua, tells PEOPLE. “Animals were living amongst filth, feces, and animal remains. Several were severely malnourished and in need of immediate medical care. Foxy was one of these animals.”

From there, the nonprofit treated Foxy to a spa day at their facility, which included grooming, pampering, and a medical checkup. The dog completed her recovery in Alaqua’s maternity suite, where she gave birth to eight healthy puppies in a clean, supportive, and cozy environment.

“We monitored her closely, ensured she was receiving proper nutrition and veterinary care, and prepared a dedicated space where she could give birth without stress,” Hood says of delivery day. “Remarkably, Foxy delivered her puppies just a few days after arriving at Alaqua. It was as though she had been holding on until she finally felt safe.”

Once the puppies arrived, Foxy went into mom-mode, “beautifully” nurturing her pups with confidence.

“Watching her transform from a neglected dog living on a chain into a confident, nurturing mother was incredibly emotional for our team,” Hood notes, adding, “Once she no longer had to worry about survival, her personality began to emerge, and we watched her relax, gain weight, and start enjoying life.”

Foxy and her pups have continued enjoying life. Alaqua named the baby dogs after Looney Tunes characters, including Yosemite Sam, Sylvester the Cat, Porky Pig, Petunia Pig, Miss Prissy, Melissa Duck, Lola Bunny, Foghorn Leghorn, and Elmer Fudd.

The entire family has moved out of Alaqua’s maternity suite to a foster home, where they have room to play and explore. All of the dogs, Foxy included, will be available for adoption in a few weeks, when the puppies are weaned and fully vetted.

Watching Foxy be a mom, you would never guess the neglect she endured just a few months ago, especially since she still loves people.

“She is attentive, gentle, and incredibly patient with her puppies. What stands out most is her resilience. Despite everything she experienced, she has remained trusting and affectionate toward people,” Hood says. “She is sweet-natured, intelligent, and eager for human connection. She seems grateful for every kindness she receives.”

Thanks to Foxy’s strength and Alaqua’s rescue efforts, Foxy and all her pups are healthy and thriving.

“Foxy’s story is a powerful reminder that neglect does not define an animal’s future. Given compassion, medical care, and a second chance, they can heal in ways that are truly remarkable,” Hood shares, noting: Foxy got a happy ending because people stepped in and worked together. “Foxy got a happy ending because people stepped in and worked together. Every animal deserves that opportunity.”

Source: People