There has been plenty of puppy excitement at the Australian Reptile Park, with Rusty, Muffin and Socks reaching a big developmental milestone. The playful trio have had their very first weigh in, giving keepers a valuable look at their early growth and health.
Rusty and Muffin tipped the scales at a healthy 4.2 kilograms each, showing steady progress and strong development. Their sister Socks weighed in at 3.5 kilograms, a great result considering her unique start to life and the extra care she received in her early weeks.
Socks was hand raised by keepers after a growth issue was discovered in her front left paw. Not long after birth, her paw was seen bending outwards, prompting an immediate vet visit. The issue was likely caused by her mum Chilli accidentally stepping on her. Thankfully, the Park’s expert veterinary team was able to help. With a soft corrective bandage and gentle physical therapy, her paw healed well, and she is now thriving right alongside her siblings.
Because she missed out on some of her mum’s milk while recovering, Socks is a little smaller than Rusty and Muffin, but she is full of energy and doing exceptionally well. All three puppies have formed a strong bond and love spending time together.
After the weigh in, the pups enjoyed a lively play session filled with toy stealing, wrestling, and tumbling around like classic siblings. Their playful personalities and cheeky behaviour have brought plenty of smiles to keepers and visitors alike.
“We are so proud of how well the puppies are growing,” said Seleena De Gelder, Head Mammals Keeper at the Australian Reptile Park. “Watching Socks bounce back from her injury and keep up with her siblings has been incredible. They’re all full of energy and mischief, it’s exactly what we want to see at this age.” Check out the video below to catch the puppies in action!