In January 2024, Metro East Humane Society in Edwardsville, Illinois, received an urgent phone call about a 1.5-year-old female dog reported to be hit by a car. She had used her last bit of post-impact adrenaline to seek safety in the nearby junkyard where she was found and named Bambi. Upon examination, her front left leg had a visible fracture, her front right leg had nerve damage, and her back right leg was shattered. Thanks to support from BPF, Bambi underwent a seven-hour surgery where two of her legs were pinned and plated back together. Bambi’s had a long recovery journey, but today, she is mobile and walking on her own! She will soon be available for adoption. We can’t wait to see her continue to thrive in a loving home.

In October 2023, Greene County Humane Society in Indiana received a call from a homeowner who noticed a severely malnourished dog hiding under their porch. The shelter acted quickly to get her out from under the porch and promptly realized Sissy had issues with her leg. After examination and x-rays, it was determined that she needed a femoral head ostectomy to repair her hip. BPF made Sissy a Grateful Pet to ensure she could undergo this surgery. The shelter staff shared that she is an affectionate pup who thrives on attention and is a social butterfly with a heart as big as her spirit. Once Sissy gains weight and her overall health improve, she will undergo surgery and be available for adoption.

Earlier this year, Kierstin was pulled from an overcrowded shelter in Texas by Dizzy Dog Animal Rescue. She was suffering from an upper respiratory infection and limping quite badly when she came into the care of the rescue. To help Kiersten regain pain-free mobility, it was recommended she undergo a femoral head ostectomy surgery. BPF made Kiersten a Grateful Pet to provide assistance for this essential procedure. Kiersten’s surgery went smoothly and she is in high spirits as she is receiving the best care while recovering in her foster home. We are thrilled Kiersten will soon be ready for adoption!

Faith is a sweet and playful pitbull mix who found herself in the care of Cibolo Animal Services, a 12-kennel municipal shelter in Texas. Faith was heartworm positive, which was causing adopters to pass her over after they learned the cost of treatment. Due to limited resources, this small shelter is unable to cover heartworm treatment costs for their residents. To help Faith get her chance at adoption, the staff reached out to BPF requesting help, and we made Faith a Grateful Pet and covered her heartworm treatment. We can’t wait to see Faith find a loving home!

Dior was in poor shape when St. Landry Parish Animal Control found her in Opelousas, Louisiana. Her ear had extensive damage from a suspected dog attack. However, even though she was in pain, Dior remained calm and sweet during her time at the shelter. BPF stepped up to get her the necessary care, including the surgery to repair her ear. She was treated at Lafayette Veterinary Clinic and remained in their care for several weeks to rest and recover. Once Dior was feeling better, she hitched a ride on a BPF transport to Michigan, where Humane Society of West Michigan welcomed her with open arms. Despite all she had been through, Dior was an immediate staff favorite, with everyone commenting on what an unbelievably loving dog was. To everyone’s surprise, Dior gave birth to three puppies just days after she arrived in Michigan! Dior’s puppies have found loving homes, and now she is undergoing treatment for heartworm disease to prepare to find a loving home.

Brut was a friendly stray dog roaming a neighborhood in Florida when he was shot in the face and left for dead. Good Samaritans worked for days to catch him as he suffered from his injuries. After being taken to a local animal hospital and accepted into the care of I Heart Animal Rescue, Brut was suffering from pneumonia, and X-rays showed he had a bullet lodged in his chest cavity. Founder Cathy Bissell saw Brut’s story on social media and immediately reached out to support his bullet removal surgery by making him a BPF Grateful Pet. Once healed, Brut found a loving home with a family from South Carolina who had been following his story. We are so happy we could be a part of Brut’s story! 

This handsome senior cat was suffering from periodontitis when he was pulled from a municipal shelter. This severe gum infection was causing Coco significant pain. The team at AAVA knew Coco would need a complete oral extraction to get him on the road to recovery. BPF supported Coco’s surgery as a Grateful Pet. After Coco was feeling better, a wonderful family adopted him. We couldn’t be happier for Coco!

Tobey is a friendly husky mix who found himself in the care of Cibolo Animal Services, a 12-kennel municipal shelter in Texas. Tobey was heartworm positive, which was holding him back from getting adopted. Due to their resources, the small shelter could not cover the cost of heartworm treatment. Finding adopters for a heartworm-positive dog is challenging, as the treatment is costly. The staff was already head over heels for this beautiful dog, so they reached out to BPF to help get him the treatment he needed to get adopted. Tobey became a Grateful Pet and received lifesaving heartworm treatment, which helped him finally find a loving home!  

Clover came from Detroit Animal Care and Control to Hearts of Hope Dog Rescue in early February 2023. She could not put weight on her right hind leg due to the junction between her paw and heel being broken. After learning about Clover and her need for corrective surgery, BPF named her a Grateful Pet and granted funds to diagnose her foot. We are excited to follow Clover’s recovery journey!

Stella was found limping in the street by a Good Samaritan who took her in and did their best to provide vet care for her severely broken leg before she made her way to Cause 4 Paws in Toronto. As soon as Stella arrived in Canada, the staff prioritized getting her veterinary care. It didn’t take long to determine that surgery was needed to relieve her pain and give her the best chance to find a home. Cause 4 Paws wanted to do everything they could for Stella but lacked the funding to repair her leg. BPF supported Stella with a Grateful Pet grant to help her receive life-changing surgery on February 2, 2023. Stella recovered quickly and was adopted by her foster in March. 

When Animal Aid for Vermillion Parish pulled Rome from their local shelter, they knew this sweet dog needed urgent help. Rome was suffering from a large hernia that would require surgery to repair. BPF supported his lifesaving surgery, and he spent time recovering in a wonderful foster home. A few months later, we touched Rome’s life once again when he was chosen for a BPF flight transport to find a loving home through a rescue in New Jersey. Rome was adopted quickly, and we are thrilled to have been a part of his journey.

Ruger, a four-year-old heeler mix, was a staff and volunteer favorite at Universal City Animal Care and Control in Texas. Not only was he intelligent and friendly, but Ruger also got along great with other dogs. His heartworm-positive diagnosis was the only thing holding Ruger back from adoption. Due to funding constraints, the shelter could only offer heartworm treatment for Ruger after adoption. Unfortunately, this meant Ruger might be at risk of euthanasia if the shelter became overcrowded. Knowing that this sweet dog needed some extra help to get healthy and find a loving home, the shelter team reached out to BPF for assistance to fund his heartworm treatment. Ruger was adopted less than a month after becoming a Grateful Pet and receiving his first round of heartworm treatment! His new family continued his heartworm treatment, and Ruger is loving life.

Duffy was found limping along the streets in Greece. She was born without a kneecap and was likely struck by a car which left her with a dislocated right hind leg. Cause 4 Paws Toronto was contacted by a rescue partner about Duffy and immediately got her on the next flight to Canada. They were able to access specialized veterinary care to get her on track to living a happy, pain-free life. Duffy has settled into a loving foster home where she is getting some much-needed TLC and learning to be a part of a family. BPF supported Duffy through a Grateful Pet grant to help with her hip replacement surgery, upcoming amputation, and rehabilitative therapy. She has recovered from her first surgery, and we can’t wait to follow her journey as she continues to get better and finds a loving home.

Mittens is a gorgeous and incredibly sweet 2-year-old cat who was suffering terribly from an infection in his gums. AAVA was able to provide basic care for him, but ultimately his infection required a cat specialist to perform a full mouth extraction. BPF supported Mittens’ surgery as a Grateful Pet and he was able to make a full recovery! He is now able to eat without pain. Thank you to AAVA for getting Mittens the care he needed before finding his forever home.

Belladonna came in as an owner surrender and was in critical condition after suffering from a prolapsed rectum and uterus for several weeks without veterinary care. The staff at Animal Aid for Vermilion Area rushed her to the 24-hour vet, where she was admitted for surgery. BPF learned about her and offered a Grateful Pet grant to support her care. She made it through the surgery, but she struggled through recovery with very low blood volume. Everyone fought hard to make sure this sweet girl survived to get the life she deserved and we are so grateful to report that she is now in a loving foster home being treated like a queen!

A volunteer for Animal Aid for the Vermilion Area was at a neighboring shelter when this poor puppy was brought in after being hit by a car. Tobias would scream in pain anyone tried to move him in any way. He suffered from two fractured femurs, a pelvis fractured on both sides, and a fractured pubis, among other issues. BPF was alerted to his condition and named Tobias a Grateful Pet to provide help with his extensive surgery and care. We are thrilled to report that his surgery was a success and he found his perfect forever family!

Brownie was trying to deliver puppies, and it was evident things weren’t progressing properly. She was in distress and was rushed to a 24-hour vet clinic, needing an emergency c-section. The vet said Brownie made it there just in time. She had four precious babies, but one did not survive from being in the birth canal too long. Had 30 more minutes passed, Brownie would not have lived as she was rupturing. BPF learned about Brownie and named her a Grateful Pet to support the surgery that saved her and gave her three pups a chance. We are thrilled to report that Brownie and her pups are all doing great. Thanks to Every Paw Animal Rescue for ensuring Brownie received the lifesaving help she needed!

Mama Lucy’s story is one of tragic neglect. This loving mother dog and her five-day-old puppies were dumped at the local shelter by their owner. She arrived at the pound so sick she became septic—she was suffering from ehrlichiosis (an infection from a tick) and had a ruptured stomach due to scavenging chicken bones to stay alive. Pound Pals stepped in to prevent her from being euthanized, and BPF provided a Grateful Pet grant to try to save Lucy’s life. Her first surgery was a success, but sadly, she could not overcome the odds stacked against her. Mama Lucy’s final days were filled with love as she bonded with the vet tech who cared for her. Thank you, Pound Pals, for never giving up on Lucy and giving her the care she deserved.

Teddy came to the shelter as a stray in rough shape. External signs made it clear he had lived on a chain: his stance, muscle development, never cut nails, flea-bitten ears, hot spots, and hair loss. It was obvious his ears were hurting, and an examination showed that he had chronic infections that had taken his hearing. He required bilateral surgery to end his infections, repair damage, and relieve his pain. BPF was thankful Teddy was getting his second chance and made him a Grateful Pet, contributing to his surgery and care. He is now living the life he deserves!

Buster came to SPCA West Michigan on a transport from an overcrowded shelter in Louisiana. He had skin and ear infections, had been hit by a car, and someone had shot at him three times, leaving fragments in his leg. He had so much going against him but was a wonderful dog who everyone loved. BPF named Buster a Grateful Pet to contribute to his extensive medical treatment. Now, his fur is growing back, his ears have cleared up and he is beginning to recover from the other traumas in the loving care of SPCA West Michigan. We are thrilled Buster soon will know the safety and love of a forever home.

Thankful came to the Humane Society of the Delta on Thanksgiving Day at only four months old but unable to move. It was assumed she was hit by a car, as clearly, she had suffered a massive blow to one side of her body. She also was experiencing seizures due to the trauma. An equally immediate concern was the possible damage to her intestines from the trash scavenging she had been doing to stay alive. Despite all this, Thankful is incredibly sweet and easygoing. This puppy needed extensive care, and BPF supported her surgery and medical treatment as a Grateful Pet so she can get the help she desperately needs.

Tammy is a 7-year-old Australian Shepherd who was surrendered to a high-kill shelter when her owner could no longer care for her. Furever Tails Animal Rescue answered the call to get her out of the shelter, but it was clear that she was in pain and had serious medical issues requiring immediate attention. Examination showed she had a completely torn ACL and an uncommon eye disease, Microphthalmia, leaving her nearly blind in one eye. BPF supported Tammy as a Grateful Pet to help with her surgical and veterinary needs. Several people were interested in fostering Tammy, and she is getting wonderful care as she recovers. It won’t be long before she is pain-free and living her best life!

Willow came to The Pittie Project from a shelter in Southern California where she had been on bite hold. She is about a year old and full of love and cuteness, but the Pittie Project was the only rescue that inquired about her. Willow likely would have been euthanized if they had not stepped in. When she arrived at The Pittie Project, she had significant lameness on her right hind leg. A specialist determined Willow had a torn cruciate ligament and would require a TPLO procedure to repair and stabilize the joint. As a Grateful Pet, Willow received support from BPF for her surgery and rehabilitation. Thank you to The Pittie Project for giving Willow a second chance!

Passion for Pitties saw something special in September when they rescued her from the local shelter. She was slated to be euthanized because she appeared to be aggressive and, therefore, not adoptable. BPF made her a Grateful Pet to support her with training before going into a foster home. While she had been very frightened at the shelter, she quickly came out of her shell and became a favorite with the boarding/training facility staff. In foster care, she blossomed even more, becoming happy, confident and trusting. Now, she is quickly learning commands, enjoying playing fetch, and her absolute favorite thing is cuddling! We hope soon she will be cuddling with her forever family!

Destiny’s owner surrendered her to the shelter in horrible condition, making it apparent she had endured terrible treatment and great pain. She was in a state of shock, covered with infected bite wounds, and could barely walk due to an open wound exposing her elbow. Despite this, she maintained a sweet disposition toward the people caring for her. Thankfully, a BPF partner, the Mylo Foundation, took immediate action to save her. Destiny required surgery to close up the elbow wound and another by her ear. As a Grateful Pet, Destiny received financial support from BPF for her surgery and care. Everyone who meets Destiny falls in love with her! She is recovering in foster care until she finds her forever home.

Little Cobbler was one of ten heeler mix puppies who, along with their mother, were transported from Point Coupee in Louisiana to True Friends to get a second chance. Puppies are especially susceptible to parvovirus and Cobbler broke with the deadly infection upon arrival at True Friends. BISSELL Pet Foundation had helped to coordinate the transport of the puppies and stepped in to support Cobbler’s treatment as a Grateful Pet. After receiving amazing care from True friends, Cobbler made a full recovery and was adopted into his forever family!

This miniature poodle with an incredible will to survive was found in a dumpster after suffering extreme abuse. Waldo’s muzzle was tied shut so hard by a piece of rope that it had sliced through his entire face on the top, sides, and bottom. It was horrific. Bone, teeth, and gums were exposed; his teeth were 100 percent rotted, and maggots were eating at his gums. He was emaciated and severely dehydrated. His leg was injured, eyes were crusted shut, and had issues too numerous to list. Thank goodness for NYC Second Chance’s commitment to saving Waldo’s life and showing him love. BPF is supporting Waldo’s medical care as he gets the TLC he so deserves. He is in great spirits and is making an incredible recovery.

Amber came to SLPAC as a stray with an old wound to her jaw. The torn flesh and muscle made her look aggressive—her complete opposite—but it kept rescue groups from taking her, and she languished at the shelter. Cathy met Amber on a visit and knew she needed immediate help. SLPAC was able to get her surgery, with BPF committing to make Amber a Grateful Pet to support her heart-worm treatment. After the surgery, she was transported to a rescue to recover with a foster family. It was her first time experiencing freedom, and she flourished with loving care, attention, and other dogs. Amber won the hearts of her foster family, who is considering adding her to their family!

Lucky, now Jules, was one of 16 puppies Blue Chip received from a Louisiana transport that BPF helped coordinate. All of the puppies were adopted once they arrived, but shortly after, several of them broke with parvovirus. The treatment for parvo is extremely expensive, and the outcome is not guaranteed. Lucky was identified as the pup that needed the most help, and BPF named her a Grateful Pet to save her life. Jules is now home, safe, and healthy! BPF is grateful that Jules received such loving care from Blue Chip and her new owners.

Poor Charlotte was hit by a car and taken to the local animal shelter. Unable to reunite Charlotte with her owners, the shelter reached out to Hearts of Hope Rescue to take her in and provide the care she needed to recover and ultimately find a home. After learning about Charlotte and her need for hip surgery, BPF named her a Grateful Pet and granted funds for the procedure. Charlotte was adopted by the most wonderful family with two little boys that adore her. She is thriving!

Roxie was on the euthanasia list at a shelter in rural Louisiana that could not afford to treat her. The staff emailed rescue groups to save Roxie since she was such an amazing dog and had been the shelter for years. One look at her face and the team at Zeus’ Rescues knew they had to help. As soon as Roxie got off the transport truck, she started peeing blood. By the next morning, she was too weak to stand. BPF made her a Grateful Pet to fund the emergency heart surgery, which saved her life. They removed 51 adult heartworms! Roxie had a long road to recovery, but thankfully, she is now living her best life.

When Cathy and the team were in Louisiana for a spay/neuter clinic, they met Zoie at the Pointe Coupee Animal Shelter. It broke everyone’s hearts to learn that she was 10 years old and had been in the shelter her entire life! BPF named her a Grateful Pet, supported her vaccines and vet care, and contacted Hearts of Hope to help. They immediately said yes, and Zoie made the road trip to Michigan, where she was quickly adopted. She will be loved in a happy home with a fur brother and a family of chickens. Way to go Zoie! So happy you will experience life at last!

The BPF team met Angela at Detroit Animal Care and Control during Empty the Shelters, and everyone fell in love with her because she was always holding her bowl! She was the sweetest dog but was so scared, she used her bowl like a security blanket. Angela wasn’t adopted that day, but fortunately, Paws for Life Animal Rescue was able to rescue Angela from the shelter environment. It was quickly determined she would need treatment for a respiratory infection, heartworm, Giardia, wounds, and skin infection. BPF named her a Grateful Pet to help with her medical treatments. Angela has since been additionally diagnosed with diabetes. Poor Angela has been through so much and we hope she will be happy and healthy in her forever home soon!

It is with a heavy heart that we said goodbye to this beautiful 11 1/2-year-old girl. Scarlett, who lived her entire life in this cage. When the BPF team met Scarlett, we pulled her from her cage to give her hope. Dr. Phil Bushby, from Mississippi State Veterinarian School, helped us by identifying a sarcoma in her leg and confirmed she was also blind. BPF named her a Grateful Pet, and she was taken to a veterinarian as we knew she needed medical attention. The news was sad. Her leg needed to be amputated, but arthritis in her other legs wouldn’t allow her ever to walk. The pain was too much for her and we decided that it was time to say goodbye. We know she is running free now. She deserved better.

Nola, an emaciated and heartworm positive six-year-old, was dropped at St. Landry Animal Control, where she was so frightened, she immediately hid under a bookcase. BPF learned about Nola right away and promised to make her a Grateful Pet to support her veterinary care and get her into a rescue so she wouldn’t be so scared. Our partners at Hearts of Hope Rescue agreed to bring her to Michigan to find a forever home. Once she realized she was safe, Nola was a different dog. She still likes to find cozy places to snuggle, but she is incredibly sweet and affectionate. Stay tuned for updates on her happy ever after!

Ash was at the local shelter and was being passed up for adoption because they thought he needed expensive surgery for entropian, a disease where his eyelids were folding inward and painfully scratching his eyeballs. His days were numbered when JL Animal Rescue pulled him with a commitment from BPF to fund his surgery and save his life. Fortunately, after Ash’s veterinary assessment, JL Animal Rescue learned that his entropian could be completed treated with medication- no surgery! BPF supported the medical treatment for this lucky Grateful Pet and he currently is in a foster home waiting for his forever family.

Eva Burrell Animal Shelter (EBAS), a small organization in Michigan’s upper peninsula, took in Daisy, a beautiful, young Bloodhound who needed help. She was in pain from entropion, a disease where her eyelids were folding inward and scratching her eyeballs. It was clear she was in pain, in addition to needed surgery, our friends at Eva Burrell were concerned she wouldn’t do well in a shelter setting. As a small shelter, EBAS didn’t have the funds for Daisy’s surgery, but they were committed to helping her. BPF agreed to sponsor her surgery as a Grateful Pet and they found a Bloodhound Rescue to foster her while she recuperated and until she is adopted. Stay tuned for updates on Daisy’s forever family.

Cathy and the BPF team met Mabel at our Empty the Shelters event at Detroit Animal Care and Control (DACC) in December 2019. This sweet, senior girl was found in a construction hole and was brought to the shelter when we were there. She was rescued with the help of an excavator! Another trusted partner and friend, Kristina from Detroit Dog Rescue (DDR), visited us at DACC during the event, met Mabel, and knew that DDR could help turn her life around. Mabel needed some attention before she could be adoptable, so BPF made her a Grateful Pet. She had some injuries from the fall into the hole, and a chronic respiratory infection that was causing major concerns, and BPF provided funding for her veterinary care. She is now cleared for adoption and is looking for her first-ever family and a much-deserved second chance!

Cathy and the BPF team identified Billie during May 2019 Empty the Shelters. She and her brother, both young dogs, were brought to Michigan Humane Society after being found in their crates in an abandoned home. They were both emaciated with sores on their hind area, and unfortunately, Billie’s brother was extremely aggressive. BPF wanted to help Billie and made her a Grateful Pet so she could get the care she needed to gain weight and regain her health. We are happy to announce that Billie is now in her forever home and is being spoiled like she deserves!

Penelope and Mischief, a bonded pair ages 7 and 9, were surrendered together to the local shelter by their family. It was heartbreaking—they should have spent their golden years with their family but instead were scared and confused. After a long wait with no interest, these girls were put on the euthanasia list, but fortunately, Labradors and Friends saved them. BISSELL Pet Foundation made them Grateful Pets to support the pair while they awaited their forever home. Since it was difficult to find a foster for two dogs, BPF offered to help with funding toward boarding where they could be comfortable while they wait. We are happy to report they were adopted together and will live out their lives together in a loving home.

Paulie is a 6-year-old pit mix who was rescued by Martina Animal Rescue after being put on the euthanize list after just one week at a local shelter. He was so sweet, but the stress of the shelter was making him act out and he needed help. BISSELL Pet Foundation was moved by Paulie’s story and named him a Grateful Pet to provide funds for training and socialization. Just after leaving the shelter, poor Paulie had a rectal prolapse which necessitated an unexpected surgery. Finally, Paulie is back to good health and good manners. He loves people and is an athletic and smart boy looking for a home!

A few weeks ago, our friends at Eastwood Ranch Foundation (ERF) received a plea from a high kill shelter in Southern California about Deacon, a stray, young Cattle dog who had been hit by a car. His prognosis wasn’t promising with 2 broken legs and a fractured pelvis. Deacon was set to be euthanized, as the shelter did not have the resources to care for him, but ERF stepped in to give him a chance. With the help of Pilots & Paws, he rode by helicopter to Los Angeles, where his surgery was performed. BPF named Deacon and Grateful Pet to support his surgery, which we are happy to report was a success. He is expected to make a full recovery and will make a wonderful family pet.

Ginger was found as a stray and brought to the local shelter, but her leg was so disfigured it was clear that finding an adopter would be difficult. The shelter put out pleas to local organizations who might be able to help her, and Wags and Walks stepped forward. They determined Ginger was in serious pain from a trauma that left her pelvis fractured and leg broken. When BPF learned about Ginger, we stepped in to support her medical costs. With some crate rest and TLC, Ginger is doing so much better that surgery might not be necessary. We are so thankful Wags and Walks was willing to take a chance on Ginger, and we can’t wait to know the rest of her story once she heals!

Sampson was at BPF Partner Ramona Humane Society, where his chances for adoption were limited because of his condition of entropion, a disease where his eyelids were folding inward and painfully scratching his eyeballs. Surgery was necessary, and BPF named him a Grateful Pet so he could get the care he needed, both to relieve his discomfort and to make his adoption possible. Ironically, an organization called Cat Adoption Service took Sampson in and cared for him pre- and post-surgery. Stay tuned for information about his new life!

Duchess is pictured at 5 months old but looks more like she is 10 weeks old because she is so tiny! She came into the shelter as a stray with diabetes and a heart murmur, then she contracted kennel cough. BPF committed to helping her to get back to full health as a Grateful Pet. Since she is insulin resistant, Duchess has trouble maintaining a stable weight and has also developed cataracts. She really pulls at the heartstrings with her sweet personality and heart-shaped nose! She is currently in a foster home, regaining her health and awaiting her forever family.

Not only is Quilty a Grateful Pet, but he’s an internet sensation! Quilty, a mischievous 6-year-old cat, had a unique skill of freeing himself and all of his buddies from the cat room at Friends for Life Animal Rescue and Adoption Organization. When we heard about Quilty starting a movement to free shelter animals, BPF knew we had to help him! BPF paid his adoption fee and funded the spay/neuter of some of his friends to help them all break free and into forever families! Quilty had countess applications for adoption and is now in the perfect home, supporting adoption on his Instagram: @free_quilty .

Hya was at the Greenville Animal Shelter and needed to be at a rescue organization that could tend to her intense medical needs. She is a senior dog with a tumor that required surgery and prevented her from being adoptable. Carolina Coonhound Rescue stepped in to get her out of the shelter but needed help to fund Hya’s surgery. BPF named Hya a Grateful Pet to make sure she received the care needed. The operation was a success (no cancer!), sweet Hya recovered, and now lives her best life on a sanctuary where she is adored. Hooray for Hya!

Zyler was on death row in Texas with 4th-degree burns on his back. His family dumped him at the local shelter where he would have been euthanized because his burns would deter potential adopters and they didn’t have the space for him or the money to treat him. Cathy received an urgent message about Zyler and BPF named him a Grateful Pet, pledging to get him to Michigan, and to help him find a home. Partners stepped up to transport Zyler to Harbor Humane in Michigan and everyone who met him along the way fell in love with him—he was so gentle, and great with other cats and dogs. The morning after he arrived, Zyler came to Empty the Shelters at BISSELL Headquarters and he was one of the first adoptions of the day! An amazing family immediately fell in love with Zyler and gave him a loving home.

The BPF team met Fred & Wilma at an Empty the Shelters event at BISSELL Headquarters, where everyone fell in love with the bonded, senior pair. Unfortunately, no one adopted them during the event as they required expensive dental care. After the event, the pair was named Grateful Pets, and BISSELL made sure they received the necessary treatment to prepare them for a forever home. They were quickly adopted together and are a happy and healthy!

Homeward Bound learned about seven small dogs, between four months to two years old, living in neglect. HBR immediately took in all dogs and one female gave birth to three puppies the next day. One puppy was stillborn, but the remaining two appeared healthy until Lula Mouse started having trouble breathing. She was diagnosed with a hernia in her diaphragm, requiring emergency surgery to save her life. BPF designated Lula as Grateful Pet to support her surgery. Homeward Bound gave Lula so much love and special care, yet sadly, the 1 lb. puppy died of pneumonia just three days later.

Harvey was hit by a car and taken to local animal control and later an emergency veterinarian as it was clear his injuries were beyond the shelter’s means. AAVA was contacted about Harvey and learned that without surgery, he would likely be unable to walk, or would heal in a way that would result in lifelong pain. The vet recommended euthanasia if there was no funding for surgery. AAVA was determined to save Harvey and reached out to BPF for help. BPF immediately named Harvey a Grateful Pet to support his surgery and recovery for a happy life. The surgery was successful, and Harvey is awaiting his forever home.

Mayah had been living on a reservation and was dropped at a nearby vet as a stray. She was starving, sick with giardia, and injured by dozens of porcupine quills in her face, which had caused a massive infection. Part of her ear had been torn off by a dog pack attack. Worse, she was trying to keep her 6 babies alive. Mayah’s surrender led to the discovery of 14 more starving dogs, all suffering from different illnesses. BPF named Mayah a Grateful Pet to support her extensive treatment, which allowed AVNM to help the remaining pets needing help. All the pets are receiving loving care to prepare them for forever homes.

Dion was first taken into Chicago Animal Care and Control as a stray. There, he was a staff and volunteer favorite because of his great personality. After a short time at the shelter, Dion became seriously ill with an upper respiratory infection. He refused to eat and would not take medication. His condition quickly became urgent. It’s a Pittie Rescue was alerted to Dion’s situation and took him in to try to save his life. He was diagnosed with pneumonia and spent days in the hospital getting treatment. BPF learned about Dion and supported his care as a Grateful Pet. A short time later, he was adopted by a great couple and is loving life!

Neron, an adorable Newfoundland mix, was a new puppy when his owners discovered a limp and signs of pain. They couldn’t afford the surgery recommended by their vet, so they surrendered him to the county shelter. Neron was quickly transferred to CAHS to get proper care and, hopefully, a second chance. Cathy and the BPF team met Neron during Empty the Shelters. BPF knew this loveable puppy needed help and agreed to make Neron a Grateful Pet. Neron does need surgery because his kneecap is out of place, but he has to wait until he is full grown. For now, he is happily residing in a foster home and getting lots of TLC.

Percible’s story is among the saddest we have known. This precious dog was found in a plastic bag on the side of the road where he was left to die. When Percible was freed from the bag, he was unable to walk; he was panting heavily, covered with maggots, feces, urine, and insects. It was horrifying, but the rescuers made sure he received immediate treatment. BPF partner, NYC Second Chance Rescue, asked for help and BPF immediately named Percible a Grateful Pet to provide funds for his medical treatment. Percible’s needs were extensive. His limbs had endured strangulation due to the matting of dirty hair, and he would need amputation to save part of his front legs and later, prosthetics so he could walk. After a long recovery, Percible has been adopted and has found an extraordinary woman to cherish, nurture, and protect him. He can now walk and play with his new limbs, and he loves his new life!

AnimalVillageNM rescued DK from a nearby reservation that is overrun by stray animals living in dangerous conditions. AVNM was told a mountain lion had attacked DK, and they received permission to enter the reservation to save him. However, he was not suffering from bites, but from bullets. DK had been shot and left for dead but managed to survive for days despite raging wound infections and a complicated and painful fracture. He needed extensive surgery and care to recover and was immediately named a Grateful Pet to help him on his road to healing and future adoption. DK is currently receiving training to become a support dog!

Keys has a heartbreaking, yet miraculous story. He came to the shelter in critical condition. His back was so swollen, it was hard to identify the cause, but he remained sweet and passive while being treated. In addition to being covered in bite wounds, there was a 6-inch deep puncture likely from a pitchfork—it was horrific. Other issues indicated Keys had been used as a bait dog and abused by a human. Fortunately, none of Keys’ internal organs had been injured, however, he required extensive surgery. BPF named him a Grateful Pet to support his operation and give him the life he deserved. After surgery, Keys was happy in a foster home but was being passed up by adopters in Tennessee. On a visit to his shelter, Cathy and the BPF team decided to bring Keys to Michigan! Keys even came to BISSELL Blocktail Party in June, where everyone loved meeting him and shortly after, he found his forever home.

Digits arrived at Van Buren Animal Control as a stray with a badly mangled foot from being caught in a coyote trap. He was an adorable pup and Van Buren was determined to save him but needed financial support. BPF named Digits a Grateful Pet to help fund his surgery. It was with the heaviest of hearts that Van Buren reported that Digits died during his surgery due to unforeseen complications. Everyone at Van Buren adored Digits, and it was a heartbreaking reminder of the sadness that shelter workers endure every day.

Cruiser has only known life in a shelter. He spent his first year at Detroit Animal Care & Control before being moved across the state in hopes of finding an adopter. Cruiser has continued to wait at Muskegon Humane for two years!! He has graduated from many training and special tricks programs, but sadly, he has been adopted and returned twice. The BPF team met Cruiser made him a Grateful Pet to help him find a home by sharing his information and sponsoring his adoption fee. While waiting, something wonderful happened. Cruiser entered a program to benefit prison inmates and rescue dogs. He has 24/7 handlers and prison officials are talking about making him an official prison therapy dog! https://www.woodtv.com/news/muskegon-county/prison-inmates-ready-rescue-dogs-for-forever-homes/

When the BPF team visited Muskegon Humane for a shelter tour, Tim Purr’ton captured their hearts. Tim had entropion, a disease where his eyelids were folding inward and scratching his eyeballs. It was terribly uncomfortable and required surgery. Tim was as sweet and patient, but not desirable to adopters who would have pay for his procedure. BPF made Tim a Grateful pet and funded his surgery and follow up care to ensure he made a full recovery. Tim was adopted days after his surgery and is doing great in his new home, where he fits right in with the other family pets!

Hey-Hey came to Unleashed Love at 8 weeks old. She wasn’t growing properly, and it was discovered she had a congenital Grade 6 heart murmur. Hey-Hey needed open heart surgery to prevent enlargement of the heart, heart failure and possible death by age three. No one wanted to adopt a pet with such an uncertain future, so BPF named her a Grateful Pet to give her a second chance. Hey-Hey went through a 4-hour procedure amid a January snowstorm and overcame the odds. After recovering with a loving foster family, Hey-Hey was adopted and is thriving in her new home!

Cali was scheduled to be euthanized any day when Cathy met her in California. So, Cathy named her a Grateful Pet and brought her back to Michigan. Cali had been adopted twice and brought back both times because she didn’t get along with other dogs at those homes. After a few days destressing at Cathy’s home, Cali went to Harbor Humane, where she was a shelter favorite, hanging out in the office during the day. The staff gave her love and reinforcement during her 4-month stay and never gave up on her. The third time is the charm! Cali is now in her true forever home.

Lanky, a setter/shepherd mix, was rescued by Paws for Life Animal Rescue after languishing at a local shelter. At only 2-years-old, he was severely underweight and at risk for euthanasia. The shelter could not get him to gain weight. Lanky would require extensive diagnostics and treatment and BPF named him a Grateful Pet to get him the help he needed. Lanky was seen by veterinary specialists to help him put on weight, treat a urinary tract infection, and improve his B12 count. Lanky is doing great now—gaining weight and enjoying his forever home in a wonderful country setting in Michigan!

Taxi, a German Shepard pup from a backyard breeding operation, arrived at the shelter when he was just 7 weeks old. He lacked coordination, and an examination determined he had hydrocephalus, a disease with excessive fluid in the brain, which could cause complications including blindness, seizures, and premature death. BPF named Taxi a Grateful Pet to fund diagnostic testing at Michigan State University Veterinary Center to find the prognosis and next steps. Unfortunately, despite incredible care from Harbor Humane, Taxi did not survive. Our hearts go out to all who loved and cared for Taxi.

Cathy met Bella (7) and Cinnamon (9) during an Empty the Shelters event. She couldn’t believe no one considered adopting this adorable, cuddly pair and designated them as Grateful Pets. They needed more exposure, so Cathy helped them get transferred to Berkeley Humane Society, where they would be featured prominently and seen by different adopters. They continued to wait for two more months; however, the staff discovered that the pair wasn’t truly bonded and could be adopted separately. Today, they are both thriving in their new homes. Big thanks to all the caregivers who never gave up on Bella and Cinnamon!

Starfish was dropped at a Georgia shelter dirty, scared, and dragging her back legs. She had suffered paralysis in her rear and the shelter knew she’d have no chance there, so they reached out to NYC Second Chance Rescue, who immediately committed to saving her. Fortunately, her paralysis was temporary. BPF named Starfish a Grateful Pet to help fund the rehabilitation she would need to become adoptable. It took so many dedicated people to give Starfish a second chance, and we are thrilled to announce that she was adopted into her forever home!

Sugar and her two tiny puppies came to CCR as strays. Her puppies were adopted quickly and she was placed with a foster family who adopted her. Shortly after, she suffered paralysis and was diagnosed with Intervertebral Disc Disease. The round the clock care became too much for her family to manage and sadly, she was returned CCR. BPF designated Sugar as a Grateful Pet to help cover her medical costs so she could get into a loving home.

Cassie was in a boarding facility for 7 long years, waiting to be rescued. Due to her confinement, she had underlying health issues, including a heart condition, skin cancer, and severe arthritis. Her body was aging more rapidly due to lack of exercise. She also had not been socialized with people or other dogs. Cathy was determined to help and named Cassie a Grateful Pet. Cathy knew the perfect person for Cassie and reached out to Candice (of Roofus and Kilo) who welcomed Cassie without hesitation. Now she has the dream life at Candice’s incredible sanctuary!

Major is a gorgeous German Shepard with Megaesophagus, a disorder in which the esophagus dilates and loses its ability to move food into the stomach, requiring a pet to be vertical when eating and drinking. While manageable, it requires an extraordinary commitment. Hayward worked tirelessly to care for and find a place for this special dog, but Cathy and BPF provided extra help by designating Major as a Grateful Pet. Major’s story was shared through BPF’s national partner and social networks, and BPF paid for his transport to Ohio, where Louie’s Legacy arranged for a foster until he was adopted.

Oscar came to PHAC as a stray in September 2018. Upon his arrival, the 4-year-old suffered from horrible hair loss, raw, irritated skin and was heartworm positive. PHAC treated Oscar’s medical issues, however, he had trust and behavioral issues from his time fending for himself on the streets of Charleston. While visiting Pet Helpers, Cathy and the BPF team named Oscar a Grateful Pet to support the training he needed to be adopted. Stay tuned—Oscar is still waiting, but we hope to have a happy update soon!

Blu was first adopted from BHS as a puppy, but 8 months later came back as a stray. He was quickly adopted a second time by loving adopters who later discovered he had a knee problem. Surgery was needed. Blu was returned to Berkeley again, where his winning personality made him desirable, but the prospect of knee surgery scared off adopters. BPF offered to pay for the double ACL surgery on Blu’s knees, and after recovering from the first surgery in a foster home, the foster family decided to officially adopt Blu!

Honey was a sweet pit bull who had just been taken in and needed immediate medical care. Her appearance indicated she had been mistreated as she was underfed, had an eye issue and her coat was destroyed by mange. BPF offered to pay for Honey’s medical treatment as a Grateful Pet, but sadly, her internal injuries were too much to overcome. Two weeks later, Honey passed away. Fortunately, she was able to receive love and affection from the great people at AHS before she left this world.

When Cathy and the BPF team were visiting MCACC, they met an adorable Shar Pei/pit mix who came in as a stray puppy and had been in the shelter for nearly a year. Sully was playful, potty-trained and loveable, but skin issues caused potential adopters to pass him over. BPF offered to pay for treatment to help make him adoptable. Just four days after seeing the vet, Sully was adopted into a loving home with two other dogs.