By Celine Klosterman
KEOKUK — All dogs may not go to heaven, but someone in Keokuk wanted to make sure one litter received a little heavenly intervention on earth.
A box with six puppies, which appear to be a black lab and rottweiler mix, was found at the rectory doorstep the morning of April 9 at All Saints Parish in Keokuk. On the box’s side, marker-scrawled words read: “Please forgive me Lord, but I can’t afford these puppys.”
“I have no idea who left them there,” said Father Paul Connolly, All Saints’ pastor.
After visiting a local veterinarian, they’re doing well at the Keokuk Humane Society. “They’re nice, cute little puppies,” about 8 weeks old, he said. He loves dogs, “but a rectory’s not always the best place for pets.” He and others come and go all day — which the puppies wouldn’t like.
So Judi Hawkins, parish secretary, posted photos of the adoptable animals on bulletin boards at All Saints. At Masses, Fr. Connolly announced the pups’ availability.
As of last week, he knew of no takers, but said a few parishioners had voiced interest.
