Momma, pictured here with Elaine's grandaughter Autumn, spends most of her time being loved by the entire Nelson-Hosak family, and is now a healthy 90lbs. (Elaine Nelson-Hosak)

By Jordan Davidson

happy ending

From streets to king-sized bed sheets: how an emaciated stray Momma dog and her puppies found loving homes

Feb 18, 2022 | 5:27 AM

NANAIMO — A female dog found starving on the streets with her five puppies has a new lease on life.

Celeste, who now goes by the name Momma, and her puppies were picked up in December of 2021 and brought into the care of the Nanaimo and District SPCA.

Momma is now part of Elaine Nelson-Hosak’s Nanaimo-based family, who opened their hearts and their five acres of property to foster the dogs through Christmas. While all five of the puppies were adopted out, Momma is staying with the Nelson-Hosak’s.

“Momma is about 90 pounds now, super healthy and super happy…she’s so full of love, it’s so amazing. She’s just so grateful and thankful.”

Four of the five puppies found their forever homes near the Nelson-Hosak’s, and they are able to have the occasional play date with their Momma.

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She said Momma came into her life shortly after the death of her best friend, and she said Momma was able to pick up on that energy.

“It’s like she knew, it’s like she was there to take care of us.”

Elaine Nelson-Hosak said she taught Momma how to hug, putting her paws on your shoulders for a loving embrace. (Elaine Nelson-Hosak)

Momma now spends her days at the side of Nelson-Hosak and her husband Tom as they take walks on their property, playing with her grandkids, helping to feed the horses, and taking up most of the space in the couples king-sized bed.

Nelson-Hosak said they are still in regular contact with the Nanaimo and District SPCA, and send them updates on Momma’s progress, like when she got spayed on Feb. 16.

She said she plans on becoming more involved in her local SPCA than she was before after going through this journey with Momma.

“They’re incredible. This journey is not an easy journey, and I am so blown away by what they do. Having Momma and five puppies was not an easy task. It was a beautiful task, but not the easiest task. I have the utmost respect for them.”

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