Toms River Police and animal control officers come to the rescue of a Jack Russell Terrier and her nine puppies. Police said they made the discovery Wednesday near Hooper Avenue and in a wooded area close to the roadway after receiving a call from a concerned pedestrian.

According to Toms River Police Department, a mother and her two children noticed that the dog and her two puppies were walking dangerously close to Hooper Avenue at around 10:45 a.m. and notified police. Three Toms River Animal Control officers responded and took custody of the puppies and attempted to locate the mother in a nearby wooded area.

9 Puppies and mother rescued in Toms River
9 Puppies and mother rescued in Toms River
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During their search, they came upon what they called, "a makeshift den that was dug into the dirt under some pine tree branches approximately fifty feet from the sidewalk adjacent to Hooper Avenue," according to a press release from township police. "inside the den were seven additional puppies that were rescued. The mother could not be located and a humane trapping device was set near the den. Five hours later, the mother was also rescued after entering the trap."

The press release goes on to say, "The family was generally in good health and was reunited. They were evaluated and treated by a veterinarian and they are now being housed in the newly erected animal shelter at 235 Oak Avenue."

Shelter officials say they will try to locate the owner of the dogs but if no one claims them they will be put up for adoption in a few weeks. For more information contact the Toms River Animal Shelter at 732-341-1000 ext. 7300. You can also access their website by clicking here.

Animal Control is on-site 8:30-4:30 daily, but open to the public for adoptions on:

Tuesday-Sunday 1-4 pm

Wednesday 1-7 pm

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