Brutus: Animal Friends Home to Home Adoption Program

 

Brutus is a neutered 2-year-old American Bulldog/Pit Bull mix who is searching for a new home. He is up-to-date on all of his vaccinations and is hoping to find a calmer and quieter home without small children. Brutus can be very shy when he's meeting unfamiliar people, so  he will need some time to be comfortable with new friends – he tends to warm up to women a little quicker than men.

 

A happy dog, Brutus loves to play and enjoys cuddling with his closest friends. His current family is hoping to find a new home for Brutus because he recently bit their young child after being startled while sleeping. Because of this, they've made the difficult decision that he may be more comfortable in a family with older children or adults only.

Brutus's family just hopes that he can find a home where he can share all of the love that he has to give – and get lots of love in return, of course!

If you think your home could be the one Brutus is looking for, please contact Jason at 724.856.3079 and leave a message.

 

Ruca: Animal Friends Home to Home Adoption Program

Ruca is a beautiful pooch who is about 3 1/2 years old. She has gorgeous eyes that will melt your heart and is a happy, friendly, well-behaved and extremely intelligent girl. Ruca was adopted from a shelter when she was about 4 months old and spent the past 3 years in a loving home until her owner passed away.

 

Ruca is spayed, microchipped and knows all of her basic commands. She is a Labrador Retriever/American Pit Bull Terrier mix with a gorgeous yellow coat who weighs just shy of 60 pounds. Ruca is also housebroken and has never demonstrated any destructive behavior (she certainly knows the difference between toys and furniture!).

 

 

This sweet girl is very curious and alert and is always eager to explore. She gets along nicely with other dogs, is very gentle with children and is not protective of her food or toys.

 

Although she has been given special permission to be cared for in her temporary caregiver's retirement complex, Ruca is in need of a permanent living arrangement and a new family to give her all the love she deserves.

 

If you would like to meet Ruca, please contact rebeccasohn@comcast.net. She would love to meet you and show you how incredibly beautiful, intelligent, loyal and special she truly is.

 

 

Happy Thanksgiving from Animal Friends

With the holiday season quickly approaching, the dogs, cats and rabbits at Animal Friends are getting excited for Thanksgiving! We encourage you to include your pets at home to join in the festivities, but what's most important is keeping them safe and healthy. Here are some helpful tips from the experts at the ASPCA to help your pets enjoy a safe Thanksgiving!

Talkin’ Turkey
If you decide to feed your pet a little nibble of turkey, make sure it’s boneless and well-cooked. Don't offer them raw or undercooked turkey, which may contain salmonella bacteria.

Sage Advice
Sage can make your Thanksgiving stuffing taste delicous, but just like many other herbs, it can contain essential oils and resins that can cause gastrointestinal problems and central nervous system depression to pets if eaten in large quantities. Cats are especially sensitive to the effects of certain essential oils.

Bread Dough-n't
Don't spoil your pet's holiday by giving them raw bread dough. According to the ASPCA, when raw bread dough is ingested, an animal's body heat causes the dough to rise in their stomach. As it expands, the pet may experience vomiting, severe abdominal pain and bloating, which could become life-threatening and require surgery.

There's Not Always Room for Cake 
If you’re baking up Thanksgiving cakes, be sure your pets keep their noses out of the batter, especially if it includes raw eggs – they could contain salmonella bacteria that may lead to food poisoning.

Too Much of a Good Thing
A few small boneless pieces of cooked turkey, a taste of mashed potato or even a lick of pumpkin pie shouldn’t pose a problem. However, don't allow your pets to overindulge, as they could wind up with an upset stomach, diarrhea or even worse – pancreatitis. In fact, it’s best to keep pets on their regular diets during the holidays.

A Feast Fit for a Kong
While the humans are chowing down, give your cat and dog their own little feast. Offer them Nylabones or made-for-pet chew bones. Or stuff their usual dinner – perhaps with a few added tidbits of turkey, vegetables (try sweet potato or green beans) and dribbles of gravy – inside a Kong toy. They’ll be happily occupied for a while, working hard to extract their dinner from the toy.

We hope you and your pets have a very happy Thanksgiving! Take it easy on the turkey and please, be tasteful with the pilgrim costumes.
 

Fall Enrichment Fun ... with Your Pet!

Crisp fall temperatures have arrived and you may be looking for some indoor fun with your four-legged friends. Here are some enrichment activities that are just what you need to keep your pets stimulated (both physically and mentally!) once the cool weather arrives.

Rabbit Enrichment Toys

Wheat Grass Containers
Grow wheat grass in a small plastic container – apple sauce or dressing cups work very well. Your rabbit will enjoy grazing on a healthy snack in a fun new way!

Cardboard Ball
Cut a paper towel tube into rings. Insert one ring into another to make an X. Continue to add rings to create a round ball. Add hay to the center and allow your rabbit to have fun tossing and tearing.

 

Bubbles for Cats

Everyone loves bubbles, and your cat is no exception! Bubbles can provide something new for your feline friend to look at and the fun, unpredictable movement stimulates her mind. And, the adventurous kitties will love the excitement of popping them! You can even find several different brands of bubbles that land without popping, can be easily wiped up and are safe for your pet to eat.

 

Egg Carton Puzzles

Dogs enjoy playing games to find hidden treats. A quick and easy way to give your dog a fun activity is to hide treats in a cardboard egg carton or cereal box and let him get to work! This activity will allow your dog to use his mind and his nose. And, tearing the cardboard helps to channel your dog’s energy and gives him an appropriate alternative to chewing on the sofa!

Halloween Pet Safety Tips

Halloween is just around the corner! While you’re putting together your costume, stocking up on candy and transforming your yard into a spooky graveyard, remember that holidays like Halloween can be stressful times for your pets. Animals don’t understand why their best two-legged friends are wearing scary disguises or why the doorbell keeps ringing all night long.

To keep Halloween fun and safe for everyone in the family, consider the following pet safety tips ...

Sniff Test

If you or your children are going to dress up for Halloween, allow your pet to smell the costume before putting it on.

Beat the Sweets

Keep candy – especially chocolate and gum – away from your pets. Certain candies, wrappers and ingredients can be poisonous and even fatal for pets if ingested.

Leave Fido at Home

Don’t bring your dog (or other pets) trick or treating! The costumes, noise, music, bright lights and decorations could be overwhelming for them. Try finding a quiet room where your pets can curl up with their favorite scary movie instead.

Don’t Over-Decorate

Be careful when decorating your home. Festive items like corncobs, cornstalks, cobwebs, glow sticks and small plastic decorations can cause a choking hazard. Also, don’t forget to cover or hide all electrical cords.

Trick or Treat

If you’re expecting trick or treaters, you’ll want to keep your pets clear of the front door. An open door can be very inviting and the constant ringing of the doorbell by the little ghosts and ghouls could scare your pets and cause them to run.

Dress for Success

Costumes for your pets can be fun (and adorable!) but they should fit well enough to allow them to breathe normally. And, be cautious of any loose or hanging parts like fringe, stuffing or buttons that could pose a choking hazard.

Halloween should be a fun time for everyone, including your pets. And, by following these tips, you can make sure that it’s safe too!

Sadie's Story

With her face out the window and nose to the wind, it’s clear this 10-year old Labrador Retriever mix is relishing every minute of the car ride with one of her favorite volunteers. This is Sadie. And, seeing her enjoy her time away from her kennel, walking carefree with a stuffed bear in her mouth you’d never guess the past she so narrowly escaped.

Sweet Sadie was found tied up outside during a snowstorm in January without protection from the frigid elements. Once she was rescued, she was taken to a local shelter and transferred to Animal Friends. As Sadie was getting settled into her second chance, our Medical team soon discovered that she was in need of some specialized care. Sadie was diabetic and needed medication to help manage her condition. So, we jumped into action and created a plan for her. Our compassionate staff and volunteers kept a close eye on her around the clock. But sadly, Sadie’s diabetes had gone untreated for so long that it’s causing her to slowly go blind.

But, we’re determined to give Sadie the life we know she deserves. Sadie hasn’t let her diabetes or diminishing eyesight slow her down one bit. She now has a special halo harness that helps her navigate her surroundings without the risk of bumping into obstacles. While she needs a little help getting around, she is always happy to spend time cuddling with friends and is even eager to learn new commands like “sit” and “give paw” – proving that old dogs can learn new tricks! Whether it takes days, weeks, months or even years, we’ll be right here for Sadie every step of the way – for as long as she needs.

But, there are still other pets – just like Sadie – who still need your help.

To Purchase Candy

Tell your friends, neighbors and co-workers about Animal Friends and ask for their support through the purchase of these sweet treats. Direct them to SarrisCandiesFundraising.com and simply ask them to use Group ID#10375 and designate Animal Friends as the organization they support when placing their order. Orders can be placed online through Dec. 14.

Deadlines

To receive your chocolate in time for Christmas, please place your order by Friday, November 16 – candy will be delivered on Friday, Dec. 14 and can be picked up at Animal Friends during our regular business hours (M-F 11 a.m.-7 p.m. and S-S 10 a.m.-5 p.m.).

A Buddy for Life

Cheerio’s journey brought him to Animal Friends after he was transferred to Animal Friends from another organization. Originally found as a stray, he had contracted a serious disease that left him blind. To alleviate his pain, our Medical team made the decision to remove his eyes. Once he recovered, Cheerio quickly became a favorite among staff and volunteers, cuddling and giving lots of kisses to everyone he met. But, as Cheerio waited to find his new home, it was clear that he would need a family as special and loving as he was.

That’s when Rose and John came to visit. After spending some time getting to know the dogs on our website, Rose remembers thinking that she wanted to get another dog, but thought she would wait a few years. But then she saw Cheerio. “I thought he looked adorable but was uncertain about adopting a blind dog. Then my daughter saw the video about Cheerio on Facebook and called me saying, ‘You've got to go get this little fellow!’ I had my doubts, but after watching the very moving video and hearing Cheerio's story, I knew I had to go take a look.” As soon as Rose and her husband John met Cheerio, it was love at first sight – and the feeling was mutual!

After a successful meet-and-greet, Cheerio – who has since been appropriately renamed Buddy – began life with his new family. “Buddy's transition went better than expected,” says Rose. “We marked different rooms with different scents so he would know where he was in the house. We don't need to do that anymore as he knows his way around fairly well.” Buddy loves his daily routine of napping, playing, and (of course!) cuddling with his family. “From my 93-year-old mother to my 5-year-old grandson, everyone loves Buddy. He is our own little rock star,” says Rose.

Buddy’s transition to his new family is a great reminder that disabled dogs make wonderful pets. While there are some changes a family has to make when adopting an animal with special needs, Rose agrees, “The love and devotion you get in return from your new pet is beyond wonderful!”

Fluffy: Animal Friends Home to Home Adoption Program

Fluffy is an 11-year-old sweetheart who is ready to cuddle up and find a family to shower her with the love she deserves. Her current family had been caring for her as a stray when they noticed Fluffy beginning to limp. So, they brought her into their home and got her the veterinary care she so desperately needed.

Now, Fluffy is ready to relax and enjoy her golden years in a home that can give her love, attention and her three favorite things: her blanket, catnip and soft food.

Although she is deaf, Fluffy lives her life to the fullest and melts the hearts of everyone she meets. She can be a bit shy at first, but with a little patience and head scratches, she is sure to be a loyal companion. If you are in need of a calm and relaxing friend, Fluffy could be the cat for you!

Does Fluffy sound like the missing piece to your home? Contact Melissa at  HoneyBeeRohm@Comcast.net.

Jewel: Animal Friends' Home to Home Adoption Program

Jewel is a sweet girl who is in search of her perfect family. Her current family made the difficult decision to begin looking for a new home for this her after a recent change to their living situation . Just shy of 2 years old, this gorgeous Siberian Husky loves life and is full of energy.

Jewel’s favorite things in life are long walks, playing with other dogs and squeaky tennis balls. She would do best in a home with a fenced-in yard where people are home often – she loves company! This pup also enjoys riding in the car and is housebroken. Jewel may also enjoy a canine companion as a new sibling. If you are looking for a new and energetic best friend, Jewel just might be the girl for you.

If you would like to meet Jewel, contact Ben at bhamm1991@gmail.com or 412.527.1510.

Thor: Animal Friends' Home to Home Adoption Program

Thor is a 3-year-old American Staffordshire Terrier who was adopted about a year ago. He is a lovable and cuddly boy who sometimes does not realize how big he really is! Thor loves to lay on laps and is always ready to snuggle. He is neutered, up to date on all vaccines, microchipped and is also house trained. Thor loves to go for walks with his people and absolutlely adores playtime!

His current family has three young children. Although he does well with them, they feel he would be a better fit for a family with dog-savvy children who are 10 years or older. Thor would do best as the only pet in his new home to make sure he receives all the attention he deserves. He wants all your love to himself!

Does Thor sound like the missing piece to your home? Contact Kelly at kcmedure@yahoo.com to learn how you can meet him. 

Maya: Animal Friends' Home to Home Adoption Program

Maya is an 11-year-old Golden Retriever with a very kind heart.  Although she is a senior girl, she is still in great health and has a lot of energy to share. She would happily go for a couple walks each day and then sit and enjoy some cuddles with her people. Maya has done very well sharing a home with cats and small children for years –  even sharing her bed with a feline sibling from time to time!

Maya tends to get nervous during thunderstorms, but as long as she has a trusted human companion nearby, she does much better. And, as is common with her breed, it's important to keep her ears clean. Although she isn't much for runs anymore, Maya enjoys playing fetch or splashing around in the water. Her current family is hoping to find her a home where she will get all the love and attention she deserves.

Update: Maya has found a new family to call her own!

Sam: Animal Friends' Home to Home Adoption Program

Sam is a handsome 7-year-old American Bulldog who is looking to share his sweet personality and affection with a new family. After a recent change in their living situation, Sam’s current family has made the difficult decision to begin searching for a new home that can give this sweet pup the attention and love that he deserves.

While Sam is a bit of a couch potato and enjoys a nice relaxing day, he also enjoys playing with humans and other canine companions. Simply put, Sam can give you the best of both worlds! And, this smart pup knows sit, stay, paw and come and is eager to learn more.

When it comes to manners, Sam is quite the gentleman, although he will occasionally bark when meeting new friends. And, with a little time to warm up (and a few treats!) Sam melts the heart of everyone he meets. Whether it is a neighbor, friend or family member, this pooch is sure to make a positive impression wherever he goes.

If you are seeking a cuddly, fun loving, four-legged family member, Sam could be the perfect fit for you!

To set up a meet and greet with Sam you can contact his current family at salimjackson77@gmail.com.

Double Trouble? Think Again!: Benefits of Adopting a Pair

Warm weather marks the beginning of kitten season at Animal Friends. This is the time of year that cats give birth, often beginning as early as March and lasting into October. At Animal Friends, we're  feeling the effects of kitten season as we work tirelessly to accommodate the overwhelming needs of kittens who come through our doors. With so many homeless kittens waiting to find loving families, right now is the perfect time to adopt a sweet kitten … or two! At Animal Friends, we know it’s twice as nice to adopt two kittens at once.

Not to mention, when you adopt two animals from Animal Friends, you get twice the amount of love for one adoption donation!





There are many benefits to adding two kittens to your family at once.

• They will always have a playmate to chase, wrestle and keep them active, well-exercised and healthy.
• Many cats are social and will love having a sibling to groom and cuddle with during nap time.
• Kittens learn from each other! If one is a little shy, socializing with an outgoing sibling can show them how to interact with humans.
• Usually, negative behaviors in pets can be because of boredom. Having a companion will help to keep them mentally stimulated and out of trouble!
• We all have to leave home from time to time. Having a kitten sibling can alleviate separation anxiety for your kitten and can prevent you from feeling guilty for being away.
• Two cats will bring your family double the love. They make great lap warmers during the winter months and offer twice as many purrs and cheek rubs. The only thing more heartwarming than the love of a pet is the love of two!
• Adopting two cats actually saves four lives – the two you're adopting, and the two that will take their open spots at Animal Friends, given a priceless second chance thanks to your adoption.

Having two kittens doesn't require much additional effort, either. An extra food and water dish and litterbox is well worth the joy your newest additions will bring to the family. Plus, if you adopt from Animal Friends, your newest family members will be spayed/neutered, microchipped and up to date on all vaccinations. 

Often, Animal Friends has pairs of cats who have come in together and need to find a home with room for two. We'll help you introduce your new cats to your home and give them the time and space they need to bond. 

It’s the perfect time to bring home two homeless cats! How can you resist? Two-step to Animal Friends at double speed – after all, two cats certainly are twice as nice!

So, come to Animal Friends or visit ThinkingOutsideTheCage.org/Cats to meet our adoptable cats today!

Bonded Pairs: The Importance of Bunny Relationships

The companionship of a rabbit can bring lots of fun and happiness into the home. From their sweet demeanor to their exceptional intelligence, rabbits can add a unique and playful presence to any family. But, what you may not realize about rabbits is their capacity for friendship and its importance in their lives. Bonded rabbits, or two rabbits who are emotionally connected, help each other navigate their world – physically and emotionally – making them the perfect adoptable duo! And, by adopting a bonded pair, not only are you maintaining the special connection between two bunnies, but you are saving two lives.

 

A Special Bond

Since they are very social animals, rabbits who are bonded have a deep and lasting relationship. Many of these pairs do almost everything together. Whether it is eating, sleeping, grooming or simply exploring their surroundings, bonded pairs make everything a group activity. Physically, these bonded bunnies spend hours cuddling and sleeping together, ensuring the other is safe and comfortable.

 

Twice the Love

Many people don't fully understand the connection between bonded rabbits, so they often have to wait longer to be adopted. And, while it may seem that adopting two rabbits is twice the work, bonded rabbits are no more work than one – they love to share. With one litterbox, one set of water and food bowls and one living space, you get twice the amount love!

Bonding Made Easy

Although bunnies can love their companions, introducing two new bunnies to one another can be a stressful and lengthy process (from weeks to even years). By adopting a pair, the bonding process is already complete. The contrasting personalities and temperaments of two bunnies can create an unwelcome and even unsafe environment for bonding. For many experienced bunny owners who have gone through the bonding process themselves, the ease of adopting an already bonded pair is the best option.

While some bonded pairs are very close, each pair is different. While they may not be joined at the hip, they still share an important connection.

Open Your Heart and Your Home

At Animal Friends, we often meet families who adopt a rabbit and soon realize they're ready to add a second floppy-eared member to the family. With so many bonded pairs of rabbits searching for loving homes where they can stay together, we encourage you to consider adding one of these lovable duos to your family.

Click here to meet the adoptable rabbits at Animal Friends. Who knows, maybe two will hop into your heart!

Beat the Heat

Summer Safety Tips for Your Pets

 

Summer is the perfect time of year to experience the outdoors and enjoy the beautiful weather, but the heat can take a serious toll on your four-legged companion. Animal Friends has a few tips to help you beat the heat and keep your pets safe, healthy and cool during the warm months ahead.

Visit your veterinarian.

A checkup for your pet is in order this time of year. In the warmer months, your companion is at a high risk of contracting parasites, fleas and ticks, which can cause much bigger problems down the road. Preventative treatments are much easier (and less expensive!) than an emergency visit to the vet.

Practice parking lot and vehicle safety.

When the weather starts heating up, protect those paws from the hot asphalt and pavement by walking on grassy areas whenever possible. Paw pads can burn easily, especially since pets do not usually wear shoes outdoors like we do!

Your pet should never be left in a parked car. Even with the windows down, a car can quickly reach an internal temperature of more than 120 degrees, which is enough to cause severe heat stroke or worse. Your pet is much safer at home on warm days, especially if your destination is not a pet-friendly one. If you see an animal in distress in a parked car, call 9-1-1 immediately.

Drink up.

As the temperature rises, animals need to drink much more water to stay hydrated. Be sure your pet has plenty of cool, clean water to drink, especially if they’re spending some time outside on warm days. Check water dishes frequently and be sure they are placed out of the sun’s reach in shady areas. Drinking dishes should be secured to avoid accidental spills.

Know the symptoms of overheating in pets.

Heat stress and heat stroke can be serious threats to animals – especially those who are very young, old or overweight. Pets with flat faces such as Pugs or Persian cats are at unique risk for overheating because their faces do not allow them to pant effectively. Animals can have trouble maintaining their body temperature, especially when outdoor temperatures and humidity levels are high.

Symptoms of heat exhaustion include excessive panting, difficulty breathing, drooling, mild weakness, increased heart and respiratory rate, stupor and collapse. Symptoms can also include seizures, bloody diarrhea and vomiting, along with an elevated body temperature of more than 104 degrees.

Beat the heat.

If your pet is overheated, move them out of the sun immediately and immerse them in cool water. Apply ice packs to the head, neck and chest and provide cool water for them to drink. If you are concerned about your pet’s health, contact your veterinarian immediately

If it's simply too hot to safely enjoy the weather together, try some of these enrichment activities you can enjoy inside with your pets. And, be sure to join us at Animal Friends this summer for plenty of fun classes and events (indoors and outdoors!) for you and your pets.

Misty: Animal Friends' Home to Home Adoption Program

Misty is a 1-year-old Yellow Lab who is full of love and energy that she cannot wait to share with her new family. While she is very loved and well cared for by her current family, they are searching for a home where Misty can get all of the exercise and physical activities that are so important for young dogs. Whether it is taking a walk around the neighborhood, playing fetch or simply running around a fenced-in yard, this pup loves to stretch her legs and burn off some energy.
 
Misty is housebroken and crate trained – although she can get a bit anxious if she is crated for an extended period. Misty has also visited the vet regularly and is in great health. This sweet pup already knows a few basic commands and has attended puppy obedience class. She is always excited to meet people and loves to give kisses and play with new friends. She is such a gentle and loving dog who would make a perfect addition to any family willing to give her the attention and affection that she deserves.
 
To set up a meet and greet with Misty, contact her current family at tfornataro_354@comcast.net.

Happy Birthday to Us | Saving Lives for 75 Years

Today marks exactly 75 years since Animal Friends began serving the pets and people of the Pittsburgh region!

In 1943, a small group of citizens made it their mission to find homes for soldiers’ pets when they left to serve in the war.

Our founders took a name that clearly articulated their mission: to serve as friends to unwanted animals.

And three quarters of a century later, it’s truly been an incredible journey.

Starting in a rented out room in the bottom of the William Penn Hotel, our organization has grown into a bustling, 75-acre campus.

Although Animal Friends has accomplished feats in the last 75 years that were nothing short of incredible, we never realized that it would grow into such a visionary, progressive organization that is never satisfied with the status quo.

Before no-kill became a movement, our founders had a vision that no animal would ever be unnecessarily euthanized at Animal Friends. And, we remain committed to that premise to this day. We’re constantly striving to save the lives of more pets of our region.

It’s not just the pets – it’s also about the people of our community. In 2006, we were able to better serve our region’s pet-owning families by opening the Caryl Gates Gluck Resource Center.

And, this past summer we took that one step further by opening our Howard Ash Animal Wellness Center to ensure that all pet owners – regardless of income – can afford the critical wellness care that their pets need … and deserve.

We are so proud that for 75 years we have remained committed to serving our animal friends and those who love them. But we simply cannot wait to see what the next 75 years (and beyond!) will bring.

We'd love to hear your memories! So, as special birthday present to us, please share your favorite photos and stories from every decade of our 75 years on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram or send us an email.

The Silver Lining

Before making her way to Animal Friends, a very pregnant Janis narrowly made it out of a small shelter in Kentucky.

Because they were at capacity, they made temporary outdoor kennels for their resident dogs, including Janis.

But just as quickly as the shelter had creatively made more space, a forthcoming winter storm was all it took to undo their hard work.

And then, it went from bad to worse. Janis had given birth … growing their problem 11-fold.

They needed help – and fast.

The shelter reached out to a rescue group in our region that transports animals in crisis to partner organizations. That organization then contacted us to see if we could take in Janis and her puppies. We, of course, agreed.

And so, Janis with her 11 puppies in tow came to Animal Friends.

They immediately went into a loving foster home.

Janis was the perfect pet. Her foster family quickly decided that she would become a permanent member of theirs, once her puppies were ready to find homes.

But sometimes, things don’t go exactly as planned …

Lethargy set in. Janis wasn’t acting like herself. Then the vomiting started and a fever set in. It was mastitis, and she needed surgery.

Despite her weariness, she continued to provide for her puppies. She simply wouldn’t give up on them.

After her surgery, Janis stayed at Animal Friends to recover. She continued to decline. We would do anything to get Janis healthy … but we couldn’t even get her to stand, let alone eat.

Then finally, we caught a break when her foster mom stopped by. Had we known what was about to transpire, well, we would have arranged it much sooner.

As soon as Janis spotted her foster mom, it was like her every ailment fell away. She rose from her bed and exuberantly went to her. In that moment, she was back to acting like the Janis we all knew and loved – even ate for the first time in days for her foster mom.

Their bond was remarkable. Truly undeniable.

We were hopeful that sending Janis home would speed up her recovery but the very next day proved otherwise. Janis couldn’t keep any food or medication down.

Strictures were found in Janis’s throat that made even swallowing painful. So to give her esophagus time to heal, a feeding tube was placed.

There wasn’t anything we weren’t willing to do for sweet Janis.

As the weeks continued, there were good days and bad. Despite all Janis’s pain and misery, Janis remained devoted to her pups … just as her family remained devoted to her.

We wouldn’t give up. We simply couldn’t. However, there are times when loving and letting go is the best thing you can do.

“I’ll never forget that day. It was like everything aligned so that we could all be with her until the very end. A school cancellation kept the boys at home, and the weather was bad early in the day so my husband couldn’t make it into work. Somewhat serendipitous even …”

Janis had pulled out her feeding tube. Her pain was too great. It was clear that there was no real chance for recovery. We were forced to make the heart-wrenching decision to say goodbye.

Surrounded by those who loved her most, Janis was sent off with the utmost dignity, respect and compassion.

She had finally found peace … and her home in the hearts of her foster family.

There truly is a silver lining in every tragedy.

In this case, it was Janis’s sacrifice to ensure her legacy of 11 puppies would go on to become beloved pets who will teach their families about companionship and love.

 

But, you see, it was also the sacrifice of our staff and volunteers who made sure that Janis and her puppies received the best quality of care we could provide.

At Animal Friends we have an unwavering commitment to give each and every one of our residents the individualized care they need – and deserve.

We’ll continue to work tirelessly for every animal who comes through our doors. We promise an unlimited number of hours and days – even years – of specialized attention.

But we cannot continue without you. Help us continue to find the silver lining.

Please give.