This story in the Star Ledger caught our eye this morning (also available on NJ.com) about a stray dog sighting in Toms River. Apparently a mom Jack Russell terrier was spotted on the side of the road, leading a couple of her pups along. Authorities were able to locate and (humanely) capture the mom and all nine, yes NINE, puppies, who are about 5 weeks old.

Nine puppies and their mother were found in Toms River, authorities said. (Toms River Police Department)

The headline of the piece was what struck me as odd: “Authorities searching for owner of 9 puppies found in Toms River woods.” Does anyone really think this dog has an owner looking for her? If they do find the owner, will he or she be overwhelmed with relief at being reunited with the dogs, or face charges and possible jail time like that woman who abandoned Patrick?

Comments on the online article expressed mostly outrage at a possible dumping and speculated on the mamma dog’s history. We liked this one best:

maybe she was a stray….running the streets/woods and some dude took advantage of her and left her in a family way…and as Moms do….she handled it and now she is safe and her babies will be adopted and I guess this is a happy ending!!!! Positive thinking!!!
I can’t imagine some creep ditching this mama because she was pregnant….that is just evil.

It’s hard out there for single moms, human and dog alike. This Father’s Day let’s be thankful for the ones whose greatest gift to their children is to love their mother.