Connie, pregnant dog who was rescued from shipping container, dies after rare illness — rest in peace

The story of “Connie the Container Dog,” a canine who was miraculously found by Coast Guard officials after becoming stuck in a shipping box, is among the most memorable animal rescue stories of the year. When it was revealed that Connie was pregnant, the narrative took a different course.

However, there has been a tragic development in the tale: Connie passed away following the infection of an uncommon virus.

The tale of Connie: discovered in a shipping container

Early in the year, Connie gained notoriety following an unexpected and improbable rescue.

According to a U.S. Coast Guard Heartland Facebook post, a group of marine inspectors from U.S. Coast Guard Sector Houston-Galveston were on duty on January 31 and were randomly choosing shipping containers for inspection.

After being selected at random from hundreds of containers, they were startled to hear an odd sound emanating from a container 25 feet above the ground.

In a TikTok video, a cop can be heard saying, “It’s scratching, dude.” They discovered there was a live dog confined inside the flat when they heard barking as well.

It had been a week since the golden retriever had been there. The officers surmised that she was a stray dog that had been hidden in a junkyard automobile because the cargo unit was packed with abandoned cars that were being transferred abroad for parts.

The Coast Guard officials called a nearby animal sanctuary and gave her some water. She was hungry and exhausted, but most of all, she was relieved to be saved.

“The moment we opened it, the little dog’s face was peeking out. Petty Officer 2nd Class Ryan McMahon stated, “She was right there like she knew we were going to be there to open it for her.”She simply didn’t seem afraid at all. Being in the arms of those who would look after her and leaving that dim place made her appear happier than anything else.

With approximately 10,000 containers at the Bayport Container Terminal on the Port of Houston, it was a true marvel she was found at all.

According to McMahon, who spoke to AP, “it would take at least another week to get to where she was going (on a cargo ship) and two weeks without food or water.” “I doubt she could have survived.”

Unexpected pregnancy

“Connie the Container Dog” was the moniker given to the saved dog. She was first adopted by the neighboring Pasadena Animal Shelter before being sent to the Maryland-based Forever Changed Animal Rescue.

There, during a routine check-up, the veterinarians revealed an unexpected development in the case: Connie was expecting! She was, it turned out, carrying puppies the entire time she was in the freight container, and her pregnancy was still healthy in spite of the trauma.

“We are hopeful given what we could see, even though her pregnancy is guarded due to her going without food and water for eight days or more. The fetuses have strong heartbeats and were bouncing around,” stated Forever Changed.

Connie successfully gave birth to eight gorgeous puppies in February. Given Connie’s physical condition, there were some health issues, but the mother and the puppies survived.

Peace be with you, Connie

However, Connie’s joyful ending was tragically fleeting. Connie’s death was confirmed by Forever Changed Animal Rescue on June 28.

Connie battled pythiosis, an exceedingly rare and aggressive fungal ailment that dogs can contract by drinking or swimming in contaminated water, until she passed away, according to the shelter, which expressed its “devastatement.” They claimed it was most likely something she picked up while living as a stray in Texas.

They tried everything they could to assist Connie fight the infection, but according to Forever Changed, she “declined rapidly.” They were heartbroken that she passed away so quickly after finding a home, given everything she had endured and survived.

The rescue stated, “We just couldn’t believe that this was how her story was supposed to end, after everything she had been through and survived.” “She had the sweetest spirit of any young dog, but she was also such a fighter—a real survivor.”

“She was finally receiving the love and happiness she deserved—she had finally found THE MOST PERFECT family.” Even if we are happy that she experienced a few blissful months of love and happiness, it will never seem like enough. She was due for more.

“Connie, we sincerely apologize.” Sweet girl, you would still be with us if love had the ability to save you. We will always love and miss you. You deserved so much more because you fought so hard. You can relax, ideal girl. You won’t ever be forgotten, for sure.

Despite the terrible end to her life, Connie is said to have left an amazing legacy with her inspirational narrative and the eight healthy puppies she is left with, according to Forever Changed.

It is also the desire of Forever Changed that Connie’s tale encourages people to adopt pets similar to hers. They stated, “There are thousands of dogs in Texas who are #justlikeConnie and are either living horrible lives on the streets or are put to death in shelters every day.”

Dogs are routinely left behind and disposed of like rubbish. Since nearly all of these dogs are still in good health, they are running around the streets and breeding uncontrollably, which means that entire litters of puppies are either put to death in shelters or suffer on the streets as well.

All Three of Brad Pitt’s Daughters, Zahara, Vivienne, & Shiloh, Have Changed Their Names 

Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie’s daughters, Zahara, Vivienne, and Shiloh, made headlines recently as it was revealed that they have adopted new names. This decision to change their names garnered significant reactions among fans and followers of the Hollywood star and his family.

Shiloh Nouvel, Vivienne Marcheline, Angelina Jolie, and Zahara Marley attend the World Premiere of Disney's “Maleficent: Mistress of Evil" at El Capitan Theatre in Los Angeles, California, on September 30, 2019. | Source: Getty Images

Zahara Seemingly Drops Last Name

Zahara Jolie-Pitt, the eldest daughter of Hollywood’s former power couple Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt, has embarked on a new chapter in her life as an official member of the Alpha Kappa Alpha organization at Spelman College in Atlanta. This has also come with a notable drop of the name “Pitt.”

Brad Pitt and his daughter Zahara Jolie-Pitt spotted at a playground in New York City on August 26, 2007 | Source: Getty Images

In a captivating video shared by Essence, Zahara’s infectious energy and enthusiasm were on full display as she introduced herself during her sorority’s probate.

Dressed in a stylish black midi dress, gloves, and pearls, she proudly declared, “My name is Zahara Marley Jolie, coming all the way from the Golden State in the city that is full of angels, Los Angeles, California. I am this line’s number seven.”

Zahara Jolie-Pitt introduces herself on stage as Zahara Jolie at Spelman College, as seen in the video dated November 2023. | Source: Instagram/essence

Fans expressed their thoughts regarding the missing “Pitt” from her name during this significant moment. One commenter expressed disappointment, noting, “That’s a shame seeing as how life could have been different for her, and he played a part in changing her life for the better.” Another fan questioned the scrutiny aimed at Brad, asking, “Why are they giving Brad such a hard time?”

Brad Pitt and his daughter Zahara Jolie-Pitt visiting Central Park on August 28, 2007 in New York City | Source: Getty Images

Another comment urged caution, stating, “I just hope this young lady is making decisions based on her own reality because to reject a parent is a BIG DEAL and should not be influenced by other people’s experiences or recollections.”

As she begins this new chapter in her life, it’s clear that Zahara’s name choice is eliciting thoughtful reflections on the complexities of family dynamics after her parents’ divorce.

Zahara Jolie-Pitt attends the "The Eternals" UK Premiere at BFI IMAX Waterloo in London, England, on October 27, 2021. | Source: Getty Images

Vivienne Changes Name Amid Parents’ Legal Feud — Report

Vivienne Jolie-Pitt is one of the twins of Angelina and Brad. When the twins were born in 2008, Brad was “very pleased to be at the birth of his children, very moved and very emotional,” said OB/GYN Dr. Michel Sussman.

Vivienne Jolie-Pitt attends the opening night of "The Outsiders" at The Bernard B. Jacobs Theatre on April 11, 2024, in New York City. | Source: Getty Images

Now 15, Vivienne is exploring her artistic side with her mom’s strong support. According to People, the Playbill for the musical “The Outsiders” lists her as “Vivienne Jolie,” notably without “Pitt.” This name change marks a significant step in Vivienne’s evolving public identity.

Brad Pitt and Vivienne Jolie-Pitt on December 4, 2010, in New York City. | Source: Getty Images

In the musical, Vivienne Jolie works as a production assistant, and her mother, Angelina, is the producer. She often joins her mom during the musical’s promotional tour.

Vivienne Jolie-Pitt and Angelina Jolie attend the opening night of "The Outsiders" at The Bernard B. Jacobs Theatre on April 11, 2024, in New York City. | Source: Getty Images

In a recent appearance on “Today,” she was spotted watching Angelina from the crowd. Reflecting on her daughter’s role in the musical, Angelina shared that Vivienne’s enthusiasm for the project is driven by its focus on family.

Vivienne Jolie-Pitt watches her mother, Angelina Jolie, being interviewed in the "Today" show for their musical "The Outsiders," dated May 2024. | Source: Instagram/todayshow

The veteran actress said, “And the same reason it responded to her, the same reason she wanted me next to her watching it, the same reason we all hugged when I came out here is because this is about family and it’s about community…”

Before the promotional tour, the mother-daughter pair were spotted attending the musical’s preview in New York City. This rare outing marked a significant public appearance for Vivienne, her first since 2021, drawing attention from fans and media alike.

Angelina Jolie and Vivienne Jolie-Pitt at the Walter Kerr Theatre for the Broadway show "Hadestown" in Times Square on August 19, 2023 in New York City | Source: Getty Images

Vivienne’s reported name change and recent public appearances highlight the evolving dynamics of the Jolie-Pitt family, especially after a third child, Shiloh, chose to follow in the footsteps of Zahara and Vivienne.

Shiloh Jolie-Pitt attends the Los Angeles premiere of MSNBC Films' "Paper & Glue: A JR Project" at Museum Of Tolerance on November 18, 2021, in Los Angeles, California. | Source: Getty Images

Shiloh Jolie-Pitt Turned 18 and Unveiled Her New Moniker

Shiloh Jolie-Pitt, who turned 18 on May 27, has filed legal documents to drop her father Brad’s surname and use her mother, Angelina’s surname. She now wishes to be known simply as “Shiloh Jolie,” making this one of her first actions as an adult.

Shiloh Jolie-Pitt and Angelina Jolie attend the premiere of "Maleficent : Mistress of Evil" on October 7, 2019, in Rome, Italy. | Source: Getty Images

TMZ recently reported that Shiloh filed the paperwork on Memorial Day, which coincided with her birthday. The request for the name change has yet to be officially granted, but it is expected to be a matter of time before it becomes official.

Shiloh Jolie-Pitt attends the "Eternals" UK Premiere at BFI IMAX Waterloo on October 27, 2021, in London, England. | Source: Getty Images

Shiloh’s decision follows a trend within the family, as her sisters, Vivienne and Zahara, have also reportedly omitted “Pitt” on separate occasions. These changes in the children’s names come amid court documents suggesting Angelina may have influenced their strained relationship with Brad.

Angelina Jolie, daughters Zahara and Vivienne Jolie-Pitt attend the gala screening of "The Eternals" at the BFI IMAX Waterloo on October 27, 2021, in London, England. | Source: Getty Images

Recent claims against the actress surfaced through a statement from Tony Webb, owner of SRS Global, a security company that provided personal protection for Angelina. Webb, employed under Jolie from 2000 to 2020, shared insights from his experience.

Angelina Jolie during the Service of Commemoration and Dedication at St Paul's Cathedral in London on June 28, 2018. | Source: Getty Images

“One of the two individuals, Ross Foster, specified that he intended to testify regardless of the NDA if he received a court subpoena,” Webb stated. He further revealed disturbing details about the potential testimony.

Angelina Jolie at the ICC in The Hague on May 19, 2009. | Source: Getty Images

“When Mr. Foster told me this, he also told me that if asked, he would testify about statements he overheard that Ms. Jolie made to the children, encouraging them to avoid spending time with Mr. Pitt during custody visits,” he claimed.

Maddox, Vivienne, Angelina Jolie, Zahara, Shiloh, and Knox Jolie Pitt during the world premiere of Marvel Studios' "Eternals" at the Dolby theatre in Los Angeles, on October 18, 2021. | Source: Getty Images

This revelation sparked a fierce reaction across social media platforms, with many expressing dismay at Angelina. Others showed concern over the potential impact on the Jolie-Pitt children.

Angelina Jolie, Zahara Jolie Pitt, Brad Pitt, and Maddox Pitt walking at the seafront promenade in Mumbai on November 12, 2006. | Source: Getty Images

“The fact that she cannot see the harm this is doing to their kids is just shocking,” one person commented. This was echoed by another commenter who noted, “It’s probably why Shiloh is moving in with her father now… She’s realized her mother is vindictive and has been trying to alienate them from Brad for years.”

Shiloh, Zahara, Angelina Jolie, and Vivienne Jolie-Pitt at BFI IMAX Waterloo on October 27, 2021 in London, England | Source: Getty Images

One called Angelina’s alleged move “the worse possible thing a person can do… alienate their children from a parent.” Meanwhile, another declared “Shame on her.”

Angelina Jolie, Knox and Vivienne Jolie-Pitt at Haneda Airport on June 21, 2014 in Tokyo, Japan | Source: Getty Images

The debate over Angelina’s actions led some to reflect on the cyclical nature of such behavior, attributing it to her tumultuous upbringing. “Her childhood was similar from what I read. Maybe she can’t break that perpetual cycle or doesn’t want to,” one claimed.

Brad Pitt, Knox and Vivienne Jolie-Pitt on July 30, 2013 in Tokyo, Japan | Source: Getty Images

Besides Vivienne, Shiloh, and Zahara, Angelina is a mother to Knox, Pax, and Maddox. She shares all of them with Brad and despite the public’s critical perception, Angelina Jolie has continually strived to embody the role of a nurturing, attentive mother. This is, a commitment deeply rooted in the lessons taught by her own mom, Marcheline Bertrand.

Marcheline Bertrand at the DGA Theater in Los Angeles, California, on July 31, 2001. | Source: Getty Images

In a candid revelation made back in 2011, Angelina shared insights into her parenting approach, which is heavily influenced by the relationship she cherished with her mother. Angelina emphasized the importance of not just being a parent but also a friend to her children.

Angelina Jolie, Marcheline Bertrand, and Jacqueline Bisset at the premiere of her new film "Original Sin" in West Hollywood, on July 31, 2001. | Source: Getty Images

She highlighted the invaluable connection she experienced through open communication and shared activities with her mother. This foundation has guided her in fostering a similar bond with her children, ensuring that despite their diverse backgrounds, they feel united as a family.

Vivienne Jolie-Pitt, Zahara Jolie-Pitt, Shiloh Jolie-Pitt, and Knox Jolie-Pitt during the Maleficent: Mistress of Evil European Premiere held at Imax Waterloo in London on October 9, 2019 | Source: Getty Images

Remembering her mother’s gentle spirit and unwavering generosity, Angelina aspires to emulate these traits. Her aim is clear: to be as good a mother to her children as her mother was to her.

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