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HELP ME HEAL SUCCESS STORIES
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Terry
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Terry is the mightiest stray there ever was. Upon arrival, he was rushed to urgent care for treatment. He was severely dehydrated and received fluids. He also came in with hitch hikers that were kicked to the curb.
Now in foster, he has learned to regulate his body temperature and has gained over half a pound in weight. |
Quinn
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Quinn was found as a stray in the City of Neenah. She came in with a significant leg injury that needed multiple rounds of saline flushes and a Capstar treatment.
She spent some time in observation with the vet and had a debridement clean up done. She is now recovering at the shelter and growing her fur back! Update: Quinn was adopted! |
Scrumps
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Scrumps is only a year old and found himself at a busy shelter in Milwaukee, WI. We saw his face and knew we had to help him. He was transferred into the care of our shelter in the beginning of January.
As you can see he has an unusual issue with his lower eyelids. Three different veterinarians at our clinic agree that he needs to see a veterinary ophthalmologist. They were unsure if it was a mass, extra tissue, or another condition. While he did not appear to be in pain, a specialist visit is needed for proper diagnosis and care. It was important to get answers and ensure his long-term comfort. Your support helps us give him the care he deserves. Scrumps had an amazing procedure done and has healed beautifully. With his eyes no longer being a problem, he is having the best time at his foster home while he awaits an adoption to come his way! |
Mario
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Mario is a talkative love bug just shy of 11 years old. Unfortunately, Mario is facing some medical challenges. A painful bump was recently noticed on his tail, so he had a visit with the vet to determine what could be done. It was determined that the mass needs to be removed. Due to the placement of the mass, his tail may need to be amputated if the mass cannot be completely removed. Mario really wants to get fixed up and make his way to his forever home. He knows he still has plenty of friends to make and laps to warm.
We need support from our community to continue helping animals like Mario make it across the finish line. Mario underwent a tail amputation and is now left with just a stub. But that does not shake his spirit! He still let's us know, every single time we walk by, that he probably needs to be fed again! He is awaiting his forever home at Petco on Casaloma! |
Sirius
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Sirius - a sweet, goofy German Shepherd who hasn’t met a person he didn’t love, came to us as a stray. When he began limping, we brought him to our local vet, his x-rays did not look good so he was brought to Edinger Surgical Options in Madison, 2 days after Sage went to UW – Madison. We discovered he needs FHO surgery to prevent lifelong pain and give him the chance to grow into the happy, active dog he deserves to be. His surgery is scheduled this Wednesday.
Update: Sirius is receiving daily physical therapy and regaining strength after his surgery. He recently had his 8-week post-surgery check-in and will soon be back to his regular, fetch-loving, tail-wagging self. |
Thor
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He had a severely infected leg on intake which caused sepsis, he no longer has that pesky painful leg and he is feeling great! Leg amputations are nothing to bat an eye at. His current vet bills are thousands of dollars!
He will be gaining some weight, getting neutered, and hopefully will be available for adoption in the next couple months! Thor is up and moving all on his own! He is heading into a foster to adopt home with his new mom! |
Lexi
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Lexi came into our care at the beginning of June. She was a seemingly healthy puppy with lots of energy. After some time, we noticed her eye was bugging her. We brought her in to be seen as UW-Vet and she was said to have a corneal ulcer. She has been receiving treatment and love in a foster home while recovering.
Update: Lexi has left to a foster to adopt home with a new dog brother, two human brothers, and a loving mom and dad! |
Tansy
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Tansy arrived as a stray who had been hanging around by some dumpsters for a few days. She was shy and had evaded the good samaritan who was hoping to help her. Once she arrived at the shelter she started opening up and bringing out her hound dog spirit. Shortly after her arrival it was discovered that Tansy was heartworm positive and began treatment for her condition. Tansy has been residing in a foster home for her treatment.
Unfortunately heartworm can be fatal to dogs when left untreated. The good news is heartworm is not only treatable but also preventable! Dogs can receive heartworm preventatives from their vet. Unfortunately heartworm treatment is costly and time consuming. This is where our community can support us by donating or offering to foster a dog with heartworm. Tansy has completed her heartworm treatment and was adopted by her new family! |
Sage
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Sage - a young black lab mix, came to us from a northern rescue partner and went into a loving foster home. A month later, she began developing lesions across her body and a swollen mass on her leg. She started limping, avoiding movement, and even soiling herself due to the pain in her back leg. Not something an 11-month-old puppy should go through. After multiple local vet visits over the course of several months and no improvement, she was hospitalized at UW-Madison and diagnosed with blastomycosis, a serious fungal infection. Her treatment will last 6–12 months, which includes daily oral medication, x-rays, blood work and urine tests every 3 months and bandage changes 3 times a week.
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Pigeon
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Pigeon was found wandering as a stray alongside her littermates. While the other four kittens appeared healthy, the kind person who rescued them noticed that Pigeon was limping and in obvious discomfort.
After veterinary evaluation and X-rays, we received heartbreaking news: Pigeon's front leg was too severely injured to be saved. To give her the best chance at a pain-free, happy life, she was quickly scheduled for an amputation. Pigeon is now on her journey to recovery, but lifesaving care like this comes at a significant cost. We rely on the support of our community to help animals like Pigeon receive the medical treatment they desperately need. If you're able to contribute, your donation will help cover Pigeon's medical expenses and ensure we can continue saying "yes" to animals in need. Every dollar makes a difference. Thank you for helping us give Pigeon the second chance she deserves. Pigeon went to her forever home completely healed! |
Kitty
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Kitty was brought to our attention by a local veterinarian who had been working closely with her family to get her the help she needed. When her medical needs grew beyond what her family could reasonably provide, they were faced with an unthinkable decision. Wanting only the very best outcome for her, they trusted us to step in and help.
Thanks to that partnership, Kitty now has a chance. She underwent surgery to remove painful, crowded stones from her bladder. These stones have been causing significant discomfort and affecting her quality of life. This procedure will give her relief and the opportunity for a happy, comfortable future. We have set Kitty's new family up for success as she was adopted in June! She is the happiest girl that was given a second chance thanks to donors like you! |
Rowan
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Rowan, a tiny kitten estimated to be under 3 months old was heard crying in a drainage pipe. Rowan's rescuer had to get creative to get him out of the pipe and rushed him to us. He was cold, wet, and underweight. There wasn't a moment to spare. He was whisked off to Blue Pearl for an intensive 3-day stay to stabilize him through supportive care - $2,325.64.
Rowan still has some scarring in this throat from his injuries, but is as healthy as can be! He was recently adopted into his forever home. |
Wanda
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Wanda was in our care since July of 2025 at just 4 months old.
When she first arrived, she was already fighting an upper respiratory infection and a septic joint. After two months on antibiotics, she suddenly became critically ill. Her temperature spiked to 105°, she stopped eating, and became lethargic. She was rushed to Blue Pearl Emergency, where she stayed for two nights. Wanda had multiple tests, bloodwork, and fluid removal from her chest. She was even placed on oxygen for a short time. Test results indicated FIP. Before the test results came back, however, Wanda was started on a specialized FIP treatment, and the change has been incredible! She’s regained her energy and acts like a spunky kitten again. Update: Wanda has been adopted and lives with her new brother and sister in a loving home! |
Roman
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Roman is a 2 year old dog who came to us as a stray at the beginning of November. Within just one day of being in our care, we noticed concerning neurological symptoms. Even so, it didn’t take long for Roman to become a staff and volunteer favorite. He is goofy, full of love, and truly loves everyone and everything, with the one exception being car rides. He is a big snuggle bug who enjoys being close to his people and soaking up all the attention he can get.
Roman has been knuckling on all four paws, which means instead of placing his paws flat on the ground, he sometimes walks on the tops of them. He also seems off balance at times. These signs can indicate an issue with how the brain or spinal cord is communicating with the body. Our primary care veterinarian ruled out contagious diseases but was unable to go further with diagnostics. He was referred to Wisconsin Veterinary Neurology & Surgical Center. After a neurological exam, it was determined that Roman does have some neurological irregularities. Roman underwent an MRI and spinal tap to help diagnose and treat what may be happening. Possible causes include myelitis, an autoimmune disease, or a subarachnoid diverticulum. Even with these advanced diagnostics, additional measures may still be needed depending on the results. This could include ongoing treatment, long term medication, or even surgery. Roman’s goofy spirit, loving heart, and trust in people remind us why we fight so hard for dogs like him. He deserves a happy ever after, and we are committed to doing everything we can to give him that chance. Thank you for supporting Roman and being part of his journey. Update: Roman is currently in a foster-to-adopt home recovering from his surgery with none other than his amazing neurologist! The Doctor that preformed Roman's procedure fell in love, and shared Roman with his kiddos, a match made in heaven! Once out of the medical woods, Roman's adoption will be official! |
Dot
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Dot is an 8 month old mix. She came to us in June as an owner surrender, after her previous family called in a panic. She had suffered three seizures in a single day, and they could not financially afford the care she desperately needed.
After visits with both our primary vet and a neurologist, Dot was placed on medication and did well for about three months, experiencing only occasional seizures. Sadly, a couple of weeks ago her condition worsened. Dot began experiencing cluster seizures (a series of seizures occurring close together without full recovery in between) which can quickly become life-threatening. She was rushed to Blue Pearl, where she spent two nights under intensive monitoring and treatment to stop the seizures. Thankfully, a new medication regimen was created, and Dot has now been seizure-free for 1 ½ weeks! We are so grateful that Dot is stable again, but the emergency care she needed has left us with significant medical bills. Donations of any size will go directly toward covering those costs. Update: Dot has been adopted and is doing well in her new home! |
Caterpillar
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Caterpillar came into our care about three months ago after he was found outside all alone, just a tiny kitten trying to survive on his own. He spent some time at the shelter before going home with the kind women who found him as a foster.
From the beginning, Caterpillar struggled with frequent vomiting. He was started on a GI diet, and his fosters carefully fed him small spoonful's of wet food several times a day. While this helped, the vomiting continued. After another vet visit and X-rays, we discovered that Caterpillar had a hiatal hernia, meaning his stomach was pushing up where it shouldn’t be. Without surgery, he would not have survived. He was referred to UW Madison, where he underwent life-saving surgery. As a life-first shelter, when an animal needs medical care and has a good prognosis, we never turn them away. UW Madison quoted us $6,000 to $8,500 for the full cost of Caterpillar’s surgery. This little kitten has already overcome so much, and we’re so thankful he’ll get the chance to grow up healthy and loved. If you’re able to help with the cost of his care, no amount is too small. Every dollar helps us continue giving second chances to animals like Caterpillar. Update: Our sweet kitten Caterpillar recently underwent surgery to repair a hiatal hernia, and we’re so happy to share that he is doing incredibly well. He can finally eat without vomiting and is truly able to be a kitten for the first time in his life. |
Destiny
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Destiny’s journey began on the side of a road. She was alone, injured, and desperately in need of help. Found as a stray, it was suspected she had been hit by a car. Just a tiny kitten, she had already endured more pain than any animal should face in a lifetime.
She was brought to Neenah Animal Shelter and received medical care with a local vet clinic where it was discovered she had sustained life-altering injuries. Because she was so small and fragile, immediate surgery wasn’t possible. Her leg was beyond saving, and amputation was recommended once she was strong enough to withstand the procedure. Destiny was placed into a loving foster home, where her journey to recovery truly began. The first few days, she mostly slept, relieved to finally be safe and healing from the trauma she had survived. Slowly, with gentle care and encouragement, she began to eat and gain strength. Her personality is beginning to shine. She’s playful, loving, full of spirit, and living up to the name we gave her. She’s not just surviving; she’s thriving. But animals like Destiny can only receive this second chance because of people like you. The medical care, surgery, foster support, and healing journey all come at a cost. If you're able, please consider making a donation to help cover Destiny’s medical expenses. No gift is too small and every dollar brings us closer to giving Destiny the life she was always meant to have. Update: Destiny went to her furever home! |
Tiffi
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Tiffi’s story is a reminder of why spaying and neutering saves lives. She came to us as a very pregnant, scared stray, already battling a pretty severe upper respiratory infection. She was placed in a foster home where she could recover and settle in safely. A little while after getting comfortable, she went into labor and gave birth to one sweet orange boy. But after two hours with no further progress, it became clear she was in distress. Tiffi was rushed to Blue Pearl Emergency Hospital, where she underwent an emergency C-section. Eight more healthy kittens were delivered, and we’re so thankful that mom and babies are now all doing great.
This experience is a powerful reminder of the importance of spaying and neutering. Pregnancy and delivery can be dangerous, especially for stray or unwell cats. Emergency care is expensive, and sadly, many animals in similar situations don’t survive or receive the help they need. Tiffi was one of the lucky ones. But so many others aren’t. Spaying and neutering helps prevent suffering, reduces overpopulation, and saves lives. Her kittens are all doing well, now at 6 weeks old. Once her kittens are old enough they will all be spayed or neutered along with Tiffi so this cycle doesn't continue. Update: Tiffi & ALL of her babies have been adopted! |
Jetson
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Meet Jetson – A Survivor Who Needs Our Help
This sweet boy’s journey hasn’t been easy. Jetson was an emergency transfer after living his entire life outdoors. He came to us with an old tail injury, a BB that had to be removed from his body, emaciated and desperately in need of weight gain and on top of that, he is HEARTWORM POSITIVE. Despite everything he’s been through, Jetson is one of the most loving souls you’ll ever meet. He loves to sit on your lap, give sweet kisses, and adores everyone he meets. He’s a big snuggler who’s always eager to please. We are committed to getting him the care he needs, but it’s going to take time and resources. His heartworm treatment will take several months, and we need help covering those costs. UPDATE: Jetson has been adopted! |
Rain
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Meet Rain, a sweet soul who’s faced more hardship than any animal should in her short life, yet still carries on with a heart full of hope.
Rain was originally with a small rescue and she came to us for a chance at a better future when her needs exceeded what they could accommodate. She arrived with her bonded companion, who tragically passed away after battling organ failure. On top of her grief, Rain was battling an upper respiratory infection, and the stress of it all made it difficult for her to even eat. But, with the unwavering care from our dedicated team and later foster, she’s finally begun to regain strength and appetite. At just 2 years old, Rain has been diagnosed with a heart murmur and was seen for more in depth diagnostics, such as an Echocardiogram, to determine how we can help her live as comfortably as possible. With proper treatment we are hoping to see her heart’s condition improve! Despite everything, Rain has never given up, and neither have we. Rain is an affectionate and spirited kitty who deserves all the love and care we can give. UPDATE: On April 22nd Miss Rain officially went to her forever home! |
HERO
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We have a cat who urgently needs your help! Hero, aptly named for his resilience and strength, was found injured on the road by a compassionate member of the community. It's evident that Hero has endured immense pain and suffering, likely the result of an encounter with a vehicle.
Hero was rushed to BluePearl where the dedicated professionals recognized the severity of his injuries. X-rays revealed multiple fractures in the left hip and a dislocation in the right hip. The consensus is clear: Hero requires surgical intervention to have a chance at a full recovery. This will not heal on it's own and the alternative is euthanasia. Despite the overwhelming challenges Hero faces, there's hope with surgery and post-operative care. Update: Hero has been adopted! |
VALENTINO
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Valentino came to us as a stray in rough shape, but has an endearing personality and is a staff favorite. He was started on antibiotics for a closed leg wound and for an upper respiratory infection and eye discharge. We were hoping this would be the road to recovery for Valentino, but he continued to battle additional health issues. He stayed in good spirits, just wanting food and attention from anyone he met.
Valentino has an adorable head tilt so he eats from a raised bowl. His leg wound healed up but we noticed additional skin issues, plus he persisted to have an upper respiratory infection. Valentino was happy to go see his friends at the vet again, as they were beginning to become familiar with him. He was diagnosed with a skin infection, mange, and an ear infection. Because of his complex health concerns, he was taken to a dermatologist for additional diagnosis. Update: Valentino has been adopted! |
DENVER
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Meet Denver! He was a transfer from a rescue partner in Northern Wisconsin. Denver is heartworm positive and had his first injection April 1st. When dogs are undergoing heartworm injections their activity level needs to be very minimal (3-4 five minute potty walks a day) If a dog is active during this time it can lead to something called a massive worm die-off, where the dog may experience a pulmonary embolism or even anaphylaxis which can result in death. Denver will need at least two more injections to help rid his body of the worms.
Update: Denver has been adopted by his foster family: yea Denver! |
DIO
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16 year old Dio came in after his owner could no longer care for him. Staff quickly noticed a strong odor coming from his mouth. He was brought to the vet and immediately put on antibiotics for a severe mouth infection. Dio had dental surgery, where all but two of his teeth were pulled! Without the surgery Dio would continue to be in pain and have a very poor quality of life.
Dio has been adopted! |
COCKATRICES
Pre-surgery
Post-surgery
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Cockatrices came into the Neenah Animal Shelter as a stray. He was dirty, matted, and incredibly fearful. Being outside had taken a toll on him and he needed a lot of help to begin healing, which included medical care and learning how to trust people. After seeing a vet and being on various medications it was found that Cockatrices’ left eye unfortunately isn’t savable and needs to be removed. The good news is he is now sporting a new haircut from having his mats removed and has started showing us his personality. He adores chin scratches, just melts into you because he can’t get enough. When you pet him down his back he pushes his butt up in the air for more, we call this his elevator butt. Cockatrices has surgery to remove that pesky painful eye on January 31st and is ready for a new beginning!
Update: Cockatrice has been adopted! |
MT. OLIVE
Mt. Olive came to us after being abandoned by her owner and having multiple litters of kittens. She is incredibly affectionate and loves to sit on your lap. She started to become lethargic and stopped eating. After being rushed to the vet, she was found to have a Pyometra – a deadly infection of the uterus. If not treated quickly it would result in sepsis, leading to death. Mt. Olive had an emergency spay surgery and is now back to normal, eating and begging for attention!
Update: has been adopted!
Update: has been adopted!