Starving Pups Rescued From Freezing Temps Now Shower Rescuers with Kisses & Spend All Day in Warm Bed

Natalie Hoage |

Mar 8, 2024

Barely sheltered by a worn plastic container and a thin layer of straw, sibling brothers Lexus and Nexus were found struggling to survive the bitter cold of winter from underneath an abandoned porch. Thankfully, Stray Rescue of St. Louis was notified of their dire situation and was there to rescue them. They provided warmth and love these two pups had never experienced, and put an end to their frigid neglect.

dog rescue: Starving Pups Rescued From Freezing Temps Now Refuse to Leave Their Warm Bed & Shower Rescuers with Kisses

The Two Dogs Had Never Known What It Felt Like To Be Safe

When Stray Rescue discovered Lexus and Nexus, they were shocked by the feral puppies’ deplorable living conditions. “They lived outside in trash, had hardly any hair, were covered in scabs, and at 7 months old were absolutely terrified of people.”

As rescuers worked on gaining their trust, the puppies huddled together, trying to make themselves disappear. “They were so upset they weren’t invisible to us. But they were so brave.” The two were immediately examined, bathed, treated for mange, and enjoyed the first real meal that they may have ever had. Though still fearful of people, they relished having a warm, safe place to rest. As one rescuer stated, “They have not left that warm bed since we gave it to them.”

Lexus and Nexus Learn How To Be Puppies

As the days and weeks went by, rescuers patiently taught Lexus and Nexus how to be proper puppies. They learned to walk on leashes and play with real toys, reveling at the chance to run freely and safely in the play yards. Slowly, the brothers came to trust their rescuers, “They follow us EVERYWHERE! They were so curious and couldn’t wait to learn more about us.”

The dogs are now thriving in their new environment, healing from the neglect they suffered since birth. Their fur is growing back, and for the first time, they are healthy pups. Their charming personalities shine, with rescuers describing them as big cuddlers.

Lexus is the chocolate-colored pup with the pink nose, always smiling and happy. One of his favorite things is showering staff with affection. As one rescuer shared, “He LOVES to show off that he knows how to give affection. The day we first kissed him, he was like – whoa! That was awesome. What was that? Let’s do it again! And again!”

Nexus is an even gentler sweetheart than his doting brother, though he doesn’t demand attention quite as insistently. After their harrowing start, both pups are blossoming into the loving companions they were always meant to be. Stray Rescue notes they love dogs, are great with kids, and will “likely” do well with cats too.

The Brothers Are Ready for (Separate) Forever Homes

While Lexus and Nexus have never been apart, Stray Rescue recognizes the importance of separating them to avoid potential “littermate syndrome.” This occurs when puppies raised together become extremely codependent, unable to properly bond with humans. This can also lead to destructive or aggressive behavior when they are not constantly together.

They are currently seeking foster families willing to take on Lexus and Nexus individually, allowing them to bond independently. As they shared, “We’ll be sad to see them leave – we are already head over heels for them! But it’s time for them to experience how much BETTER life can truly be.”

Once both pups have fully regrown their fur and are healthy enough to be neutered, they will be officially ready for adoption into loving permanent homes. If your family would like to become the second half of their journey, please visit Strayrescue.org/Foster.