Foster-based Fur Fun Rescue (FFR) of Eastern Iowa is focused on "rescue done right:" to ensure animals get medical care and transportation in order to prevent the euthanasia of healthy, sick and elderly pets. The grant money will help FFR provide more resources to reduce local euthanasia rates. Visit Fur Fun Rescue's website to learn more about their life-saving work.

Baloo's Rescue and Miraculous Transformation
After their owner passed away, Baloo and five other dogs were left to fend for themselves in the confines of an unsupervised home with dwindling access to food and water. When rescuers found the dogs, they were estimated to have been left for two to three weeks!

Baloo was very emaciated, frightened, timid, and appeared to have injuries to his legs. He was panting and clearly in pain. The shelter that took in Baloo ran X-rays which revealed hip issues, but they did not have the resources to get him the veterinary treatment he needed. This is where FFR stepped in.

At his new foster home, they immediately started Baloo on pain medication and a plan to help him gain weight since he was not fit for surgery in his emaciated state. Despite his hip problems, Baloo sprang back to life upon eating a hearty diet and spending time around the other dogs in the home.

After two weeks, Baloo had gained enough weight to be cleared for surgery and he recovered famously. Baloo was adopted by previous FFR adopters who'd had another dog with hip dysplasia, so they were well-prepared to care for his condition. Baloo is thriving in his new home and loves his daily walks, stuffed animals and lots of snuggles.

Animal Aid in Tulsa, OK provides emergency veterinary care to homeless pets, day and night. They also work to educate people on responsible pet ownership and the need for concern towards animal welfare. Grant money will help Animal Aid cover the high costs of veterinary care and help more homeless animals. Visit Animal Aid of Tulsa's website to learn more about their life-saving work.

Penelope the "Foster Fail" Helps Other Pets
Penelope came to Animal Aid from a local area that was known to have many feral dogs living in poor conditions. Penelope was malnourished and had a serious case of demodectic mange, a condition caused by mites that results in skin infections and hair loss.

Poor Penelope was practically bald and covered in scabs. She was extremely fearful and could hardly go for walks with her foster mom because she would cower at every noise. Luckily, there were two other rescue dogs in Penelope's foster home with whom she quickly bonded. These dogs taught Penelope how to be a pet and enjoy a loving home.

It was a bittersweet moment for Penelope's foster mom when a great family decided to adopt Penelope. However, despite their patience and dedication, Penelope was not bonding with her new family. When they decided it wasn't the best fit, Penelope's previous foster mom knew that she couldn't let Penelope get away again. Penelope became a "foster fail" and now fills the role of 'mentor' to incoming foster dogs, teaching them how to be pets.

Based out of Lufkin in Southeast Texas, Wendy's Misfits is a foster-based rescue organization that takes in abandoned pets, which are often unplanned litters of puppies. The grant money will be used for veterinary care as well as spay and neuter procedures to help prevent the number of abandoned puppies. Visit Wendy's Misfits' website to learn more about their life-saving work.

Hurricane Rescue: Getting a Second Chance
In August 2017, Hurricane Harvey passed through East Texas, leaving flooding and destruction in its wake. As they set out to help pets in the affected area, Wendy's Misfits obtained a Pit Bull named Chance from the Army National Guard. Chance had been left chained to a post and was found standing in flood water up to his knees.

No one stepped forward to claim Chance, so Wendy's Misfits was left wondering how to find him the best home. Despite being a lovable sweetheart, Chance was a big Pit Bull whose appearance was intimidating to many. Plus, they didn't want him to wind up in the wrong hands.

Chance stayed with his foster family until July 2018 when a family with a soft spot for bully breeds reached out. "We were originally guarded because of them having a small infant that he could knock over with his tail," said Roxie of Wendy's Misfits. But the family reassured the rescue organization that they had smaller children with their other bully breed dogs who have since crossed the rainbow bridge. Upon seeing Chance interact with his new potential family at a home visit, Wendy's Misfits knew this was a great match. They continue to receive pictures and updates about Chance with his human siblings in his forever home.

Havaheart Rescue (HHR) of Springfield, MO rescues and rehabilitates abandoned and abused dogs, especially puppy mill survivors that desperately need a safe and loving refuge. With the grant money, HHR will provide medical care and physical and psychological therapy to more puppy mill survivors. Visit HavaHeart Rescue's website to learn more about their life-saving work.

Calvin Finds His Loving Forever Home
Calvin the Bichon Frise began his life at a puppy mill, forced to breed until he was no longer of value to his breeder. They discarded him at a shelter when he was about six years old. During these first years of his life, he knew nothing of a loving home, gentle humans, or dog toys.

The Mississippi rescue was not equipped to care for Calvin's dire medical situation, which included heartworms, arthritis, a blind eye and a bad spider bite, so they reached out to HHR for help. Upon taking him in, Calvin's fur was so matted that it had to be shaved down to the skin which revealed further medical issues including a horrible gash on his back.

Calvin moved into his foster home where he didn't know how to be a normal dog. He kept to his kennel for two weeks and watched his foster fur brother play with squeaky toys. Soon Calvin would discover a small penguin toy that he carried to his bed to sleep with. As days passed, Calvin began to enjoy walks outside, though he could not run due to the heartworms.

Calvin's foster mom wished for the perfect family for Calvin, and that wish came true when two ladies met him and instantly fell in love. Now Calvin gets regular Touch therapy, daily walks and playtime with pet parents that give him all the love he deserves.

I Heart Dogs Rescue and Animal Haven (IHD) in Michigan has a mission to create a refuge for homeless dogs and those belonging to domestic violence survivors. Funds from the grant will be used to renovate their outdoor and indoor dog yards to create a safer environment with proper drainage for rainy days, as these areas are extremely important to the health and happiness of the dogs while in their care. Visit I Heart Dogs Rescue and Animal Haven's website to learn more about their life-saving work.

Bowser Doesn't Let His Disability Hold Him Back
After being abandoned by his previous owners, Bowser wound up in the care of IHD. Initially, this young American Bully seemed to be healthy and in good spirits, so they were puzzled as to why anyone would give him up.

However, it quickly became apparent as Bowser made his greeting. "Instead of walking, Bowser slid across the linoleum floors with his face down on the ground and his back legs doing all the work to move himself forward," said Megan of IHD. A veterinary specialist diagnosed Bowser with a skeletal congenital deformity in the front elbows which gave him very little range of motion.

Despite his disability, Bowser was a happy and friendly dog and continued to love life: he would oink like a pig and roll over to ask for belly rubs.

In August 2018, an IHD volunteer wanted to add another dog to the family, so she brought her dog in to meet those available for adoption. There weren't any good matches, that is until they met Bowser. The dogs immediately hit it off and the adopter knew that Bowser belonged in their family. In September 2018, he got to go to his forever home.

Bowser has gotten a wheelchair to support his front, and he began regularly going to physical therapy. He enjoys daily wagon rides to the park where he gets to run around with his fur brother.

Cat's Cradle (CC) is a foster-based rescue organization in Virginia. The grant will allow CC to provide veterinary care and spay/neuter procedures to foster cats to get them ready for adoption. It will also help to fund their trap, neuter, release program to help reduce the feral cat populations. Visit Cat's Cradle of the Shenandoah Valley's website to learn more about their life-saving work.

Chirps Overcomes Illnesses and Finds a Forever Home
A good Samaritan found a very sick white cat on the side of the road and brought him to a local shelter. This kitty was very friendly, but needed lots of medical attention, so the shelter handed him over to Cat's Cradle. Due to the unique sounds he made, rescuers decided to name the kitty Chirps.

Chirps had an upper respiratory infection and an eye infection due to hairs growing on the inside of his eyelid. Cat's Cradle treated him for the respiratory issue, but Chirps would need two surgeries to remove the hair follicles from his inner eyelid.

One night after surgery, Chirps' health rapidly declined, so his foster parents took him to the emergency veterinarian. They were initially unable to determine the cause while Chirps' condition continued to worsen. A vet tech from Cat's Cradle suspected toxoplasmosis, so they began treatment with antibiotics and palliative care.

Luckily, the suspicion was correct, and Chirps' condition turned around. Unfortunately, he had lost his eyesight permanently. Chirps gradually adjusted to life as a blind cat and learned the layout of his foster home by following the sounds of footsteps or a jingling toy. Other foster kittens in the home helped keep Chirps' spirits high by snuggling and playing with him. After all he'd been through, Chirps' foster family knew that he'd found his forever home with them and made the adoption official. His mom said, "he is the most pure spirit that I can imagine."

Puppy Kitty NYCity (PKNYC) is a nonprofit, volunteer-based animal welfare organization that serves the Tri-State area. Founded to help malnourished and intact animals throughout the five boroughs of New York City, PKNYC focuses on trap-neuter-return ("TNR"), fostering, and adoption of injured and in-need cats and dogs. From July to December of 2018, PKNYC saved 197 dogs and cats, secured 115 successful adoptions, and transported 23 feral cats to their new Barn Cat Initiative. The grant will provide ample opportunity to help fund these programs and increase rescue efforts. Visit Puppy Kitty NYCity (PKNYC)'s website to learn more about their life-saving work.

From a Damaged Kitten to Loved Family Member
In 2018, PKNYC rescued Hugo from the streets of Queens. Barely twelve weeks old, he was found with a broken pelvis and fractured leg. On the street, he was only able to move by dragging his legs, continuously scraping himself on the concrete. Following an extensive medical review, it was discovered that Hugo also had one kidney that did not function, as well as having no feeling or movement of his tail. With significant veterinary advisement, it was determined that Hugo's fractured leg needed an amputation due to atrophy. Despite these obstacles, PKNYC knew, through love and support, he could heal and live a new life in a loving home.

After months of continuous physical therapy and rehabilitation, Hugo's new adoptive mom, Camilla, reached out to Team PKNYC, knowing that she could support Hugo's special needs and be his support in his new life of love and comfort. "We knew we needed him in our lives. We assured PKNYC of our commitment to doing physical therapy and helping him live his best life," says Camilla. "After he had healed from surgery and the vet was ready to pass off his physical therapy treatment schedule, we took him home! He had a rocky start, with a ringworm diagnosis and emergency de-obstipation due to his narrow pelvis within his first 10 days at his new home. Despite his hard beginning, Hugo is a sweet, playful boy who lives life to its fullest. We are fortunate to watch him blossom and help him overcome his obstacles. He is our daily inspiration. We are grateful that PKNYC took in one very damaged kitten so we get to have him be a part of our family."

Texas Great Pyrenees Rescue (TGPR) covers Dallas, Austin, Houston, San Antonio and South Texas to rescue Great Pyrenees and mixes that are at-risk for injury, cruelty, abandonment, or euthanasia. With this grant, they will increase intake efforts to rescue, rehabilitate, and find homeless and injured "Pyrs" forever homes. Visit Texas Great Pyrenees Rescue's website to learn more about their life-saving work.

A Good Samaritan Saves Quinn
In 2018, a TGPR volunteer was at a vet hospital, preparing to bring home a dog who'd been hit by a car and was now stable. While waiting, a man walked in with a wet, dirty puppy in a wooden box. He'd been driving home from work and spotted the dog on the side of the highway, lying in mud. She was in bad shape, so he immediately drove her to the emergency vet. The volunteer recognized that the pup was a Great Pyrenees, so TGPR jumped in to save the puppy.

She turned out to be only 9 weeks old and had been hit by a car, left with multiple broken bones in her legs and pelvis. The prognosis was grim, and the hospital transferred her to an orthopedic specialist. After bathing, hand-feeding, and lots of TLC for three days, the specialist was able to operate on her.

During the surgery, he saw that the bone fragments determined that she'd been on the side of the road for at least five days. She needed metal rods and screws placed inside her pelvis, legs, and elbow to hold them together but allow for growth. She was prescribed lots of rest, antibiotics, and pain medication.

After a week, she was able to stand, and in two weeks, she took her first wobbly step. One month after surgery, she was released. She'd come in a small, injured 9lb puppy and is now a happy, healthy 50lb 5-month-old Great Pyrenees named Quinn. She's since found a forever home with a family who loves her very much.

Established in 1973, Friends of Homeless Animals (FOHA) is a no-kill shelter that rescues and places homeless dogs and cats in the northern Virginia and Washington DC area. Every animal FOHA takes in is provided care and shelter for as long as needed, whether that means a week or for the rest of the pet's life. The grant money will support ongoing efforts to save adoptable pets throughout the region, as well as provide them the highest quality of life during their time at the shelter. Visit Friends of Homeless Animals' website to learn more about their life-saving work.

Goliath Charmed His Way into a New Volunteer's Heart
When FOHA first learned of Goliath, he had heartworm, a painful condition that is fatal without expensive treatment. One of FOHA's veterinary partners agreed to treat him, and Goliath came to FOHA to spend the next few months getting better. This huge mastiff's ample wrinkles and endless drool proved quite endearing to everyone he met, and he quickly became a favorite resident at the shelter.

After completing treatment, Goliath was heartworm-free and ready to find his forever home! He was adopted a short time later but it turned out this wasn't the end of Goliath's story: the adoption didn't work out, and he was returned to FOHA a few weeks later. More than most dogs, Goliath had a hard time readjusting to the shelter environment. He didn't like being in his run and was big enough to induce minor injuries pressing his huge head against the chain link trying to push his way out. Having had a taste of what a home was like, it seemed Goliath could hardly stand being without one again. Staff and volunteers tried everything to help him be happier and more comfortable while the search was underway for a foster family. It was his lucky day when Elizabeth, a new volunteer, saw him and asked about him.

Elizabeth said, "I kept reminding myself that the last thing I needed was another dog, especially a sad, drooling mastiff! But I kept thinking about him." After a week, she and her husband offered to take Goliath in as a foster. This gentle giant "charmed his way in to our home and our hearts," and it wasn't long before Goliath-now renamed Henry-finally got a break to match his size when they made him a permanent member of their family!

The Bulldog Haven NW rescue and adoption organization provides a safe place for English and French Bulldogs, mental & physical rehabilitation, rehoming, breed specific shelter assistance, public education and more. An all-volunteer team, they rely on donations, adoption fees, and fundraisers to cover their rescues' extensive medical care. The grant money they win will be used to help with those veterinary costs and additional fostering supplies. Visit The Bulldog Haven NW's website to learn more about their life-saving work.

How Louise Met Ferry Ron: A Modern "Ferry Tail"
Louise was a breeder dog that was found dumped on the street. Skeletal thin with raw, open sores, she'd had many litters - including one quite recently. Bulldog Haven was called because of her condition, and a volunteer, Sara, went to deliver Louise and a big bag of food to her waiting foster mom, via ferry boat.

Struggling onto the ferry ramp with a dog that could barely walk, a man approached and asked if he could help. When he looked down at Louise, Sara saw the horror on his face and quickly explained the situation. The stranger helped get Louise up the stairs to the seating area. Louise crawled up on the seat and leaned against him for the hour ride. Shelter dogs can be pretty stinky (plus she had a skin condition), but that didn't deter this man who became known as "Ferry Ron." He carried her to her new foster's car and handed the waiting woman a significant amount of cash.

Louise spent five months in her foster home, eating good food, gaining weight, and healing her infections. She had a tumor removed and was spayed. Ferry Ron continued to donate to her care and check on her progress. He shared that he'd recently lost his beloved cat and reminisced about his long-time canine companion that had also passed. He put in an application to adopt Louise; and when it was time to find Louise's forever home, other families were considered but in the end, her fairy tale was indeed a Ferry Tail. In 2018, Louise's adoption to Ferry Ron became true and she now has an amazing human and a big fenced yard. We know they will live happily ever after.

Barky Pines is an animal rescue located in West Palm Beach, Florida. Their mission is to save those pets who would otherwise be euthanized by finding their forever homes. They also offer senior programs, military vet companionship, and sanctuary to a wide variety of animals. Should they receive the top grant, they would add additional housing to their sanctuary, as well as help afford further vet care. Visit Barky Pines' website to learn more about their life-saving work.

Rescue Dog Tank Becomes a Therapy Dog
In 2016, the police in Boynton Beach, FL received a call from a concerned resident about a skinny, lethargic American Bulldog puppy with a master lock around his neck in the back of a hot car. The police immediately broke the windows and pulled the dog out. When Barky Pines heard the news, they offered to rescue the dog (later renamed Tank) and find him a loving home.

Tank was quickly adopted by the Kelley family and they knew his life would be amazing. He has a natural ability to make people feel comfortable and his personality always gets a laugh. His new parents decided to work with a local therapy dog organization and after a year of training, Tank began visiting children hospitals, local events, and hospice patients on a regular basis.

Tank drew a lot of attention because he does not look like your average therapy dog: he's got a wrinkly face, floppy jowls, and an enormous, muscular body (he's pushing 100lbs!). But don't let his looks fool you; Tank is the most gentle, loving dog you will ever meet. Children and adults instantly fall in love with Tank, his goofy personality, and his playful antics. He has changed a lot of lives, lightened many hearts, and connected with incredible ease.

"I have been told by many of the parents in the children's hospitals that Tank's visits have helped them get through some dark times," says pet parent Kristyn Kelley. "There truly isn't a day that goes by where Tank doesn't cease to amaze me." They want to educate people on the beauty of rescue dogs, especially bully breeds, and to show the world how wonderful these dogs can be.

Golden Retriever Rescue of the Rockies (GRRR) is dedicated to the rescue, placement and awareness to ensure that Golden Retrievers are adopted into safe, loving homes. Since inception, GRRR has placed over 6,000 Golden Retrievers and Golden mixes in forever homes, and the need for its services grows every year. As medical care is their largest expense, the grant will help those Goldens who need treatment for conditions that range from congenital issues to injury to behavioral rehabilitation. Visit Golden Retriever Rescue of the Rockies' website to learn more about their life-saving work.

Duke's Second Chance
Handsome two and a half-year-old Duke is super sweet and loves everyone he meets. His owner brought him into the vet last year saying he came in from the backyard limping, and wouldn't put any weight on his left rear leg. The vet could tell that he was in severe pain and distress. She took an x-ray and saw a completely fractured tibia. The leg would need surgery to pin the bone back together, if Duke was to have any chance to heal and use that leg. The vet told the owner that surgery was essential for Duke's quality of life, but he didn't want to spend the money for surgery, and made the decision to euthanize his dog. Fortunately, the vet called GRRR to see if we would take Duke, and of course, they would! Thankfully, the owner agreed which was good news, but Duke was not out of the woods yet by any means.

GRRR's vet saw him immediately and made sure Duke was as comfortable as possible and that his leg was immobilized to prevent further damage. Surgery at the orthopedic hospital was extensive; it took a plate and twelve pins, but he came through like a champ! With his cone in place, he came back to stay at GRRR for his first few weeks of recovery. This good boy maintained his sweet demeanor even though he was surely in pain. He always had a tail wag and a smile for anyone who visited him. He was a very good patient and started to recover quickly.

The lucky boy has now been adopted by a wonderful couple who will give him a safe and loving home forever. He couldn't be happier.

This foster-based Pitbull and cat rescue specializes in animals with medical issues, taking in dogs and kitties from local shelters and also from animal control facilities around the country. Donations and grants are used to offset vet and supplies bills, which allows them to save more animals.

Trotter's Story
"Trotter was abused at seven weeks old, leaving him paralyzed and incontinent," begins Toni Vale, Vice President of Pitties & Purrs, locally known as the rescue with a heart. "We were asked to help and thankfully found him a loving foster home."

While in his foster's care, Trotter was then taken to Pitties & Purrs' vet for a second and third opinion about his legs, and, Toni continues: "after a few weeks he began to involuntarily move his legs!" He was taken to extensive physical and underwater treadmill therapy twice a week in order to help him regain mobility, but after a year, sadly, there was little to no improvement.

But Trotter is like any other dog; he just gets around using a wheelchair instead of with his back legs. He doesn't know he is different from other dogs and he isn't treated differently. "He does all of the normal dog things like play fetch, give kisses, eat lots of food, celebrate holidays and birthdays and even go on vacations." But the best news is that Trotter has found his forever home! His foster parents knew he was already home, and adopted him.

SSR is a foster-based nonprofit that in just a year, has rescued over 700 dogs. Upon intake dogs need a wellness check, vaccines, and heartworm testing, but many dogs require more extensive medical treatment. With the grant money, SSR will be able to continue to give the lives of neglected dogs a happy and loving home.

Zues' Story
"After serving in the US Marine Corps, I was diagnosed with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder," begins John Orlando. While overseas John had interacted with many German Shepherds so it was a natural progression to his own GSD, named Riddick. "The ten years I was blessed with Riddick had such a positive impact on the inordinate stress, anxiety, and depressive symptoms I would often encounter."

When Riddick passed away, John began experiencing high anxiety and stress levels. It was then that his wife came across Zeus on Facebook: "A lonely, sad, and helpless dog in a shelter across the country. We both took one look at his face and knew he was meant to be a part of our family." Zeus was said to be 'too far gone' by the shelter, but SSR disagreed, and took custody of the dog, believing someone needed him as much as he needed them.

Zeus had lived a life of neglect and abuse: he was heartworm positive, underweight, had severe mange and a bacterial infection leaving him with barely any hair. He was sent to a vet to start his long treatment, and was finally adopted by John.

Zeus immediately loved his new family (both human and other canines). "He showed us that an open heart and a loving hand could make a family grow beyond wonders, and how relationships between humans and dogs can do unimaginable things for conditions suffered by both species," says John. "He truly has the most loving heart and kindest soul. Zeus has shown us what forgiveness can look like, and how love can ultimately heal any wound."

Ginger's Pet Rescue takes in death row dogs from California and Texas as well as Taiwan, Thailand, Korea, Mexico, and Iran. After 12 years, they have saved over 16,000 dogs. This grant will allow them to save more animals as well as provide food and vet care for pet parents fallen on hard times.

Ellie's Story
"Ellie is a 2 year-old female brown and tan Mastiff," begins Ginger Luke, founder of Ginger's Pet Rescue. "She was found locked up inside a filthy, closed down restaurant and left to starve without food or water." Ellie was both physically and psychologically on her last legs: she had been horribly abused and beaten down before GPR discovered her.

"We rescued her from her torment," explains Ginger. "She is now living on a farm with two of our wonderful fosters who are working to restore her both physically and emotionally." Ellie will stay with her fosters for as long as it takes to recover before the rescue carefully selects her future pet parents and forever home.

GPR's goal is to rescue one desperate dog at a time until they are all safe, giving homeless animals with no hope the life they deserve through rescue, foster and adoption.

GRRMF is a volunteer group that rehomes golden retrievers and mixes that have lost their home or family. For 25 years, they have provided medical and foster care, adoptions and community education in Florida. The grant would be used for medical costs for incoming dogs and those in the sanctuary program.

Nova's Story
GRRMF was requested to step in when a local shelter took in 8-month-old Nova, a golden retriever blend, who almost lost her life when hit by a car. She'd been surrendered by her owners, as they could not afford her vet bills necessary to help her heal. GRRMF stepped in and took Nova to urgent care for her injuries, which included a shattered elbow and bone shards in her shoulder.

"Nova was greeted by our village of volunteers and was admitted to our emergency vet and specialists," says Janet Sturman, volunteer at GRRMF. "She received pain management, triage and received the surgery necessary to stave off amputation. She was put into our Healing Hearts program that utilizes long term fosters who also worked with her during a long period of rehabilitation." The great news is that her foster was indeed a fail (of the good variety!). Her foster says, "She has filled the empty spaces I knew I had, and filled the voids I never knew I had. She gives hope and of course – love!"

Nova means 'chasing butterflies' in the Native American Culture, and, in a sense, her kind and gentle demeanor expresses this. "She makes every day count and the family loves her and cheered her on," says Janet. "She is enjoying her carefree life, thanks to GRRMF."

Jelly's Place is a no-kill shelter that advocates for abandoned, abused, neglected, and injured urban dogs and cats. Run by volunteers, they provide adoption services and medical and food assistance to low-income pet parents. The grant would help fund veterinary care for the many animals that they help.

Delilah's Story
"Delilah is a tortie kitten around 5 months old who was found by a homeless man with a severe injury to her front left leg," says Chris Stahl, Treasurer of Jelly's Place. "Her bone was exposed up to her shoulder and her front paw was decomposing and hardened."

Even through these severe injuries, Delilah was still a sweet, purring, and very loving kitten. After trying to get several vets to treat her – and no one would take her without a payment – the good Samaritan was guided to Jelly's Place which lead to Delilah receiving essential medical care. "A quick visit to the vet led to the amputation of that leg, painkillers, and a course of antibiotics," continues Chris. "She developed an infection after the surgery because the injury was so extensive and had to be re-hospitalized for a few days, after which she was returned to Jelly's Place for her recovery."

Luckily, Delilah recovered quickly and got along well with all the other cats. Having three legs has made no difference to her ability to climb and play, and she has remained her sweet disposition throughout the ordeal. Soon after she healed, an adopter came forth who was very interested in her as she already had a three-legged kitty at home. She was adopted and is very loved by her new mom.

AlleyKattz rescues cats that deserve a second chance through rehabilitation and adoption. All cats are fully vetted and they provide food and insulated housing for about 60 cats in colonies. The grant will help save more kitties and provide them with food and medical care.

Blinky's Story
After a kitten with dirt stuck on his face was found by a volunteer and then brought in to the vet, he was diagnosed with a severe case of ringworm that even affected his eyesight. Affectionately called Blinky, he was put on medication, determined to be about 5 months old, and homed with a foster who began nursing him back to health.

While at his foster home, Blinky made a favorite human (the daughter in the house, Scarlett) who had noticed his eyes went in different directions and subsequently made him an eyechart to help strengthen the muscles. After multiple trips to the vet, Blinky was diagnosed with entropion, an eye condition that requires surgery. He would first need to recover from the ringworm infection and gain some weight.

When it was time to put him up for adoption, Scarlett protested; she asked AlleyKattz if she could adopt Blinky. "How can I say no to the little girl who took such good care of him? The little girl who did not care that his eyes were wonky or he had ringworm, she just loved him as he was! That's true love," says Sonnia Cepeda, Manager at AlleyKattz.

Blinky now has a full furry family that consists of cats and dogs, but he loves his human sister Scarlett most of all. "This little guy would have died if he was not found. BUT now look at what he has found! A family that loves him just as he is," says Sonnia. "Every animal deserves to be rescued and a wonderful home. Blinky took a special place in our hearts."

K-9 Lifesavers is a volunteer, non-profit rescue, dedicated to saving the lives of homeless and abandoned dogs from high-kill shelters and high-risk situations in Alabama, Georgia, West Virginia, the Carolinas, Tennessee, and Kentucky. The grant money will be used to treat critical care dogs as well as provide standard veterinary care.

Lollie's Story
Lollie came to K-9 Lifesavers with an injured front leg that was missing its paw, another leg with ligament and tendon damage, heartworm disease and five puppies in tow. After a vet visit they determined they had to amputate her right leg, begin hydrotherapy, get a brace for her left leg, and implement heartworm treatment. She was placed with a loving foster family to help her transition into being a "tripod," and it didn't take long before the family (with four dogs already) fell in love with Lollie and adopted her!

She is still being treated for heartworm disease and has a little trouble walking, but Lollie is a true fighter; her family calls her their warrior princess and she's won the hearts of her doggy brothers, who help her gain confidence every day. Her new pet parents have even gotten her a prosthesis to help relieve the weight she bears on her left side, and they (and we) think she's a true inspiration.

Woof Gang Rescue is a no-kill, volunteer-run rescue organization serving Wisconsin, Illinois, Kentucky and Indiana. They focus on dogs at risk for euthanasia, owner surrenders, and those in danger of abuse or neglect. The Healthy Paws grant will assist in vetting incoming dogs and help with urgent medical needs.

Buffalo's Story
Buffalo was found in Chicago as a stray, frozen to the ground in the middle of January. Rescuers used hot water to loosen his body before he could be transported to Chicago Animal Care and Control (CACC), where Woof Gang Rescue was connected with him. Buffalo received extensive medical care for trauma, pneumonia, and flu before being adopted to his forever home. He now has two human siblings and just last year, he also gained a furry sister from Woof Gang.

Greyhound Friends of New Jersey (GFNJ) is dedicated to placing retired racing greyhounds into responsible, loving homes. While GFNJ is predominantly a greyhound adoption group, they also help non-greyhounds in need of rescue from high-risk situations by providing them with a safe haven.

Apple Jack's Story
Apple Jack (Apple) is an adorable, sweet greyhound who came to Greyhound Friends of New Jersey (GFNJ) from a Florida racetrack at the age of two. Apple tragically broke her leg in her last race, and while the racetrack veterinarian cast her leg, it appeared to be unstable when she arrived in New Jersey. After further evaluation, vets determined that bone fragments were causing issues in the leg. She underwent physical therapy, and recovered. A GFNJ favorite, Apple was adopted by a loving family who also has another greyhound.

Pacific Pug Rescue is a volunteer organization in the Pacific Northwest rescuing pugs who have been surrendered or abused, regardless of age or condition. They provide fosters, forever homes, and medical care. The grant money would be used to pay medical costs for pugs in their care.

Hank's Story
Pacific Pug (PP) rescued a 3-year-old pug named Hank living in a transitional housing community who was injured; he was paralyzed, in excruciating pain, and the vet's prognosis was grim. The vet tech on duty changed Hank's fate; with her help, they visited a neurologist and discovered that he had an infection causing his paralysis. After antibiotics and physical therapy, the vet tech adopted him from PP. Today he is a healthy, happy boy and just recently went for his first run on the beach!

Arizona Cattle Dog Rescue (ACDR) is a non-profit who rescues and re-homes Australian Cattle Dogs in AZ. ACDR fully vets every rescue, including spay/neuter, vaccinations, and treatments for unique conditions or injury. Grant money will help to cover these expenses.

Luna & the Honeymooner's Story
Arizona Cattle Dog Rescue (ACDR) supporters Kathleen and Doug were on their honeymoon when they discovered seven abandoned, starving dogs deep on a hiking trail in Navajo National Monument Park. Without any lost-dog posters nor inquiries logged with the rangers, the duo brought the pups to ACDR. All were entered into foster care and Luna was adopted by her rescuers!

Saving Grace Rescue is a non-profit organization focused on rescue and adoption of special needs and neonatal kittens. One hundred percent of their intake is pulled from euthanasia lists and high-risk shelters. The grant money will fund medical care for the incoming kitties.

Bernie's Story
Bernie was brought in to a high-risk shelter as a young adult male with a serious hind leg injury, a heart murmur and a genetic condition that caused him to be nearly blind. Despite clearly having a rough start, he had an incredibly sweet and mellow personality. His kitty soul touched the shelter staff and they reached out to Saving Grace, knowing he was an unlikely candidate but wanted him to be rescued. After three successful surgeries, Bernie found a forever home with two other kitties and a human family who even has a pillow sewn just for him!

Congratulations to Shadow's Fund! They've been awarded the largest grant of $20,000. Shadow's Fund is dedicated to helping the most vulnerable shelter dogs find hope and a second chance. They're excited to use the grant money to support the operation of their sanctuary and the care of their animals, giving all dogs the chance they deserve.

Happy Adoption Tale
Klifford spent his first 5 years with a homeless person. He lived a life on the streets and slept beside his best friend each night. Eventually, his friend chose a treatment path that Klifford could not follow and he ended up in a local animal shelter. His chances for adoption were slim so Shadow's Fund brought Klifford to their sanctuary, which was created for dogs that need a second chance. Here, Klifford would learn the joys of playing with other dogs and meeting new human friends but they all wondered if Klifford would ever bond with another person. Then one day came an email addressed to Klifford that made everyone laugh and consider that maybe this was it! The family had 2 dogs to play with, 17 acres and plenty of steak to share. "Tell him to give us a call if he's interested". Needless to say, he was. Life today for Klifford includes chasing squirrels across the ranch, afternoon naps on the sofa, plenty of steak, and a new best friend!

Pug Nation Rescue of Los Angeles receives the runner-up grant of $10,000! Dedicated to the rescue, care, and placement of abandoned, neglected, and abused pugs, Pug Nation is excited to use the grant to pay for vet treatments, medicine and loving care at their "Pug Station" in Los Angeles, CA.

Happy Adoption Tale
Elsa came to Pug Nation after being hit by a car and her owners couldn't help her. When Pug Nation picked her up, the poor girl was in tremendous pain from injuries and internal damage. She needed surgery and physical therapy to regain the ability to walk. They started doing light water physical therapy with her at the station in their dog bath, and this brave little girl started not only standing but took a few steps. Miraculously, she can now walk, even trot and is doing great! She was adopted, and transformed from a little, broken body to a beautiful girl full of personality and life! She is absolutely loved and cherished in her forever home.

Dogs2DogTags rescues shelter dogs and trains them to be companion/service animals, then pairs them with Veterans suffering from PTSD, free of charge. They provide health checks, spay-neuter and comprehensive training. Grants allow them to save more lives, both dogs and Veterans.

Anna's Story
US Veteran Nate wanted a dog to fish, camp, and hunt with, and also help with his effects of PTSD and social anxiety. Dogs2DogTags provided him with Anna, a 6-year-old female Lab, who is loving and calm, and it was love at first sight! Today they are inseparable, and Nate is even planning on taking other Vets on hikes and camps with Anna, to show the positive effects that a dog (and the outdoors!) can have on those suffering from PTSD.

Devoted to the rescue and placement of dogs rescued from high kill shelters in the U.S. and overseas, OPH is a volunteer-run organization reliant on foster homes. They will use the grant to improve their foster program and develop a rehabilitation program for pups.

Major's Story
Major was found chained outside and neglected, heartworm positive and 40lbs underweight. He was rescued and brought to a shelter, but escaped and ran 26 miles in freezing weather, back to his original home, just to be betrayed and surrendered again. OPH's foster home helped nurse Major back to health, and then found him a forever home where he's safe and warm. His new parents say he is a loving slobbery boy who is great with family and visitors!

The Cat's Meow is the largest all-volunteer feline rescue organization in LA and Dallas. Grants help to perform over 3000 spays and neuters, to curb overpopulation of cats and kittens in these areas, which reduces euthanasia rates in shelters.

Martin and Kylie's Story
Martin and Kylie were rescued from a hoarding situation, where they lived with over 100 cats in a small room. Cat's Meow helped find them a foster home that later became their forever home, where they got to truly blossom! After they were adopted, their pet parent was diagnosed with cancer. The two stayed by her side with snuggles and kitty kisses, offering precious emotional support until she was completely cancer free.

The UAAC's mission is to eliminate euthanasia of healthy, adoptable dogs and cats through rescue, spaying and neutering, education and adoption. Their commitment to each animal is life-long. Grants fund surgery, vaccinations, and a variety of other common (sometimes unique) needs.

Frankie's Story
Frankie is a big lug of a Pitbull, bull-headed and strong, that was at UAAC for almost 2 years. He was adopted out twice before finding the right fit and his forever home. One night, Frankie's dad fired up his wood stove and fell asleep with the stove door open. As Frankie was barking and frantically pulling his dad, he finally woke up to find the entire home caught on fire! Frankie and his dad made it out alive with a few burns.

The Milo Foundation rescues at-risk animals and matches them to homes that will provide lifetime care and rehabilitation to those who need it. They offer sanctuary to those who are not placed and educate about responsible pet parenting (including spay/neuter).

Little Girl Momma's Story
After the Northern California fires, the community came to help the Milo Foundation. Little Girl Momma had been continuously overlooked due to a congenital condition, but has now found her forever home with a big family. She's awaiting the surgery her family has scheduled to ensure her prance will represent the radiance of her spirit!

This Connecticut-based non-profit is dedicated to giving a new life for rescued or displaced Labrador Retrievers. They will use the grant money to cover the veterinary costs of spay/neuter, vaccinations, and heartworm testing and treatment.

Newman's Story
Newman, an 8-year-old Labrador retriever, was placed as a puppy at a drug and alcohol rehabilitation halfway house for homeless military veterans. He quickly became the center's "house dog" with the important job of bonding with residents during their recovery.

Abandoned Animal Rescue (AAR) is an adoption shelter, an affordable spay-neuter clinic, a wellness center, and handles community education outreach. The grant would provide construction help as well as the purchase of a deep freezer (for some peanut butter Kongs for pups at night!).

Zoey's Story
Zoey spent most of her life alone and heartworm positive, outside in the Texas heat. After AAR vetted her, she found her forever home: "She is the perfect mix of gentle and playful for our young children. It's as if we are making up for all the years of neglect all at once!"

Assistance Dogs Northwest is a nonprofit organization that provides specially trained dogs to people with physical disabilities and other special needs.

Hope's Story
Hospital Dog Hope spends her days snuggling with patients in their hospital beds and sitting patiently with children receiving chemotherapy. "Hope brings so much joy and love to the kids. Her daily visits give them something to look forward to and make children smile when nothing else can!"

North Carolina's only no-kill, nonprofit animal shelter, Carolina Animal Rescue & Adoption (CARA) houses 23 dogs and 27 cats. They rely solely on donations, grants and fundraising to support medical care and shelter. With the grant money, they would add a kitten room to their cattery.

Sadie's Story
Sadie, rescued from a hoarder, was very shy when adopted and unfortunately, ran away. After weeks of searching, she was found with many injuries, one requiring a leg amputation. When she saw her foster mom, she lit up with love. Her foster home became her forever home, and she now lives in the country and runs as though she has four legs!

Copper Country Humane Society (CCHS) is a Michigan no-kill shelter that assists other shelters in their state. The grant money would be used for life saving endeavors, such as urgent medical care or taking in dogs and cats that have run out of time in a different shelter.

Morgan's Story
Morgan was rescued after being found starved in an extremely poor living situation. Years of neglect and abuse had almost killed Morgan, however she pulled through! Her forever family says that she's an absolutely wonderful and spunky addition to the family and she loves the small-town life.