Amidst the hustle and bustle of a Navy base, an unexpected friendship blossomed, warming the hearts of all who witnessed it. Stinky, a spirited stray dog, found her forever home in the unlikeliest places – the heart of a compassionate Navy Petty Officer on deployment.
The officer stumbled upon Stinky and felt an immediate connection. Recognizing the need to ensure Stinky’s safety and provide her with a loving home, the officer knew he had to take action and took her back to base with him.
As the days turned into weeks, Stinky became more than just a four-legged companion to the officer; she became a morale booster for the entire base. The two formed an inseparable bond. The officer even built Stinky her very own dog house on the base.
He knew he could not leave her behind when the officer’s deployment ended. He needed to find a way to bring Stinky back to the United States with him. And that’s when he reached out to us for assistance.
Our dedicated team sprang into action, swiftly taking Stinky into our care. She received top-notch treatment, including vaccinations, travel paperwork, and all the love she deserved. Our team ensured every detail was attended to for Stinky’s long-awaited journey home.
The day finally arrived for Stinky to embark on her transcontinental adventure. With her tail wagging and spirits high, Stinky embraced every moment of the journey. And then came the magical reunion. Stinky and her officer were finally back together. The once stray dog, who had found solace in the company of a Navy hero, is now living her best life in America.
Every week, we receive more and more requests from U.S. service members who desperately need help bringing the beloved animals they befriend on deployment to safety. Each rescue can last from a few weeks to several months and costs between $4,000 to $9,000 per animal. We need your help reuniting these U.S. heroes with the animals they love. Donate now.
One big reason people might hesitate to go into long-term treatment or sober living is that they don’t have anyone to look after their pets. It’s a similar situation for those facing domestic violence – they often can’t seek help because they can’t bring their pets along. We believe nobody should have to part with their furry friends to get the support they need. That’s why, through our PAWsitive Recovery program, we offer temporary housing, food, and medical care for these pets. This way, their owners can focus on getting the help they need to heal. It’s all about helping them rebuild their lives so they can eventually be reunited with their beloved animals and start a new, happier chapter together.
Charlie & Michael
Michael’s motivation for getting sober was coming home and giving his dogs a better life. He knew that getting treatment for his alcoholism was the right thing for him to do for himself, his dogs, his friends, and his family. It wasn’t easy, but knowing that his best friend, Charlie, was in good hands and waiting for him kept him focused on his recovery. When they reunited, Charlie, a high-energy pup who loves to cuddle, could barely control his excitement. We’re thrilled to see them embark on this next adventure together.
Loki & Kurt
Before his addiction, Kurt loved snowboarding, hiking, biking, and being outdoors. His dog, Loki, was always by his side. In 2020, Kurt’s drinking got out of control, and he lost all of his friends. But he never lost Loki. Even in the worst of times, Loki was by Kurt’s side, giving him the love and support he needed. Eventually, Kurt sought treatment and is now over 100 days sober and reunited with his best friend. They’re rebuilding their lives together and looking forward to what lies ahead.
In recognition of Spay and Neuter Month, SPCA International is awarding shelter partners worldwide with grants totaling over $120,000. This initiative underscores the importance of spaying and neutering stray and owned animals. Beyond controlling overpopulation, spaying and neutering play a pivotal role in reducing the number of homeless animals, alleviating strain on shelters, and promoting healthier lives for pets. Through these grants, we hope to support shelters in their mission to provide care and refuge for animals in need and advocate for responsible pet ownership practices globally. Join us in celebrating this commitment to animal welfare and recognizing the vital role spaying and neutering plays in creating a brighter, more humane future for our furry companions.
Below are some of the exciting Spay & Neuter projects we are sponsoring this month:
An Important Message from our West Bank Partner, Daily Hugz Animal Sanctuary:
Our team is in the final stages of planning the crucial evacuation of the 65 dogs at the Daily Hugz sanctuary in the West Bank. We’re partnering with local rescues across the U.S. to help these lucky dogs find forever homes filled with love. Want to meet some special dogs taking the ride of a lifetime? Dive in and get to know some of the stars of this life-saving flight!
Nilin: Nilin was rescued after being chased by kids pouring oil on him. He was just a puppy when Daily Hugz took him in. Despite his tough start, he is extremely friendly and loves kids and playing with other dogs.
Sally: Sadly, Sally’s puppies were killed by a group of kids who also tried to hurt her. Despite this, Sally is very friendly and loves people. At times, she can be reactive around other dogs. Sally has one eye clouded over, but that doesn’t stop this special girl from living her best life.
Farouk & Faysal: Adorable siblings rescued from the street 4 years ago. They are friendly (although Faysal is a little shy) and great with other dogs.
Mayla: Mayla’s history is unknown, but one thing is sure: she is the sweetest tripod you will ever meet.
Kareem: Kareem was found as an abandoned puppy near the Daily Hugz sanctuary. He’s shy at first, but he is very loving and affectionate once he’s comfortable. He will do anything for a belly rub.
Sukar: Sukar is named after the Arabic word for “sugar” because he’s such a sweet pup. He’s very friendly but also enjoys spending time on his own.
Suhita: Suhitawas found as a puppy begging for food at a restaurant. She’s shy but friendly.
Badu: Badu found himself without a home after his owners moved back to Europe. Badu enjoys being around people but can be reactive around other dogs.
Tala & Sunbul: Siblings born at the Daily Hugz sanctuary on New Year’s Day in 2019. Tala is very shy, while Sunbul is friendly and enjoys being around people and other dogs.
Lucky: Lucky was rescued from children throwing rocks at him. Despite the time he spent trying to survive on the street, Lucky is friendly and very calm.
Ava: Ava was surrendered to Daily Hugz by a man whose wife didn’t like dogs. She is quiet, gentle, and enjoys being around people.
Nabila: Nabila has been at Daily Hugz since she was a tiny puppy. Thanks to the team there, she was able to get a benign tumor removed from her back and is now a healthy, happy dog who loves people and other dogs.
Lukas: Lukas is a happy-go-lucky tripod who loves everyone he meets. Having one leg amputated has not slowed him down at all.
Zoe: Zoe is sweet and has adorable markings. She enjoys spending time on her own.
Meezan: Meezan is a special tripod with the uncanny ability to maintain perfect balance and run around on three legs. He is friendly with people and dogs.
Susu: Susu is shy and takes a while to warm up to people. He also likes to hang out with the donkeys more than with other dogs.
Malika, Asim, Adil, Hazim & Spot: This precious litter was rescued as orphans after their mom died fromparvovirus. Fortunately, the pups were able to receive treatment in time and survive the deadly disease. Since then, they’ve found comfort at Daily Hugz. Malika is shy but friendly. Asim is friendly and demands belly rubs from everyone he meets. Adil is shy and takes a bit to warm up to people. Hazim has never met a person or dog he doesn’t like.
Jenan: Jenan is a feisty and lovable tripod. She loves people but can get defensive around other dogs.
Stay tuned for adoption information. A list of the local partners participating in this mission will be made available soon.
Please help us ensure these precious pups get to safety and into loving forever homes. Donate today to support their evacuation from the West Bank to the United States.
Update Alert! The situation in the West Bank has intensified, and another shelter urgently reached out for assistance. The number of dogs in our mission has risen from 65 to 70. Your support is crucial now more than ever to ensure the safety of these precious animals.
U.S. servicemembers willingly step into the line of duty, facing challenges and uncertainties that most of us can only imagine. At SPCA International, we believe there’s no better way to express our gratitude for their selfless service than by reuniting these brave men and women with the loyal companions they befriended during their overseas deployments. Through our Patriot Pets program, we recently welcomed a group of Patriot Pets into our care and helped to reunite them with their heroes. With open hearts and wagging tails, these furry friends embarked on freedom flights, preparing for a joyous reunion with the soldiers who mean so much to them. As the holiday season unfolds, we’re thrilled to play a small part in these heartwarming tales of love, loyalty, and companionship.
Poland
When an Army Specialist spotted Poland desperately searching for food, she knew she could not turn her back on the helpless kitty. The specialist began caring for Poland, and the two bonded. The specialist knew cats were not welcome where she was, and she worried about what would happen to her new furry friend once her deployment ended. That’s when she reached out to us- the rest is history! Our team quickly jumped into action, bringing Poland into our care and preparing her to travel to the specialist’s home in New York. Our team was by Poland’s side the entire time, ensuring the sweet cat was safe and at ease during the journey.
Poland made it home just in time for Thanksgiving! Despite his rescuer still being on duty, Poland has already found love and comfort with the soldier’s husband, who picked her up. Their bond is paw-some, and Poland is settling into her new home like a true champ! And she’s counting the days until she’s reunited with the soldier who saved her.
Easy E
Remember Easy E? This adorable pup was the only one in his litter to survive. Sadly, all of his siblings were euthanized, leaving him to fend for himself until a brave soldier came to his aid. The soldier nursed him back to health, sheltered him, and even crafted makeshift toys from camp towels. Easy E became a source of joy for everyone at the camp, and the soldier simply couldn’t imagine leaving Easy E behind when his deployment ended. He knew Easy E simply would not survive on his own.
Thanks to the generosity of SPCA International donors like you, we raised the necessary funds to bring Easy E to our shelter in Iraq, where he got the necessary medical exam, tests, and vaccinations to fly to the United States.
We are thrilled that Easy E is now safe in his new forever home, and we can’t wait to hear all about his adventures with the kind soldier who saved his life.
Gunner, Jersey, Boba, Bashi
Compassionate soldiers rescued a stray dog during deployment, only to discover she was pregnant. Soon, a litter of puppies arrived. Born into love and joy, Gunner, Jersey, Boba, and Bashi have been by his soldiers’ side since birth. As their deployment concluded, the soldiers couldn’t leave them behind and asked us for help.
After weeks of navigating red tape and getting the pups ready for their flight to the U.S., we’re pleased to announce that Gunner, Jersey, Boba, and Bashi are all home, nestled back into the arms of the soldiers who embraced them from their first moments.
Every week, we receive more and more requests from U.S. service members who desperately need help bringing the beloved animals they befriend on deployment to safety. Each rescue can last from a few weeks to several months and costs between $4,000 to $9,000 per animal. We need your help reuniting these U.S. heroes with the animals they love.
Through the Pawsitive Recovery program, we aim to offer temporary shelter and care to the beloved pets of individuals battling substance abuse or escaping domestic violence situations. Today, we are pleased to share the inspiring journey of Ethan, a graduate of the PAWsitive Recovery program.
Ethan, now in recovery and thriving alongside his best friend Dexter, began to struggle with drugs and alcohol while in college. Soon, it started to affect those around him, and Ethan began to isolate himself from others. His dog, Dexter, never left his side. Through every challenge, Dexter was Ethan’s source of comfort and would eventually become his biggest motivation to embark on a journey to sobriety.
“I always say, if it wasn’t for my pup, I don’t know where I would be; he saved my life. His love and affection are unmatched, and he always makes me happy.”
While Dexter inspired Ethan to seek help, getting help while caring for a pet proved challenging. Ethan had to leave Dexter in a kennel when he checked into rehab. He knew his pup wasn’t happy in that environment, but he had no choice. He had no one else to care for Dexter while he got help. It wasn’t until Ethan completed rehab and entered a sober living facility that he came across our program, PAWsitive Recovery.
Once Dexter entered our program, we got to work to find him a loving home. It took a couple of tries to find the perfect fit, but soon, Dexter found himself with the perfect foster family that showered him with the love and attention he needed while away from Ethan.
“While Dexter was in foster care, I received a picture of him and their puppy practically spooning. It was the cutest picture, and it made me so happy because I knew he was with a perfect family and had found a new best friend! It provided a feeling of peace. Knowing that Dexter was in a good and safe place through PAWsitive recovery, I had a much more positive outlook on everything. It gave me a lot of comfort and peace knowing he was with such an amazing family.”
Ethan, Dex, and the family who fostered Dex.
Ethan was able to give recovery his all, and while the journey was not easy, he is happy he took the first step towards recovery.
“Having an animal has been one of the most important motivations in my journey. Working to get my normal life back was very hard but knowing that once I can go back to normal, I would have my little guy back.”
Today, Ethan and Dexter are reunited and happier than ever. They’re taking their new journey one step at a time, knowing they have all of our support.
“Every day when I come home from work, Dexter greets me with all the excitement he has in his little body. It’s always something I look forward to, and it makes coming home a lot more special. This journey won’t just change you for the better but allows you to show up as the best version of yourself for everyone around you, especially your pet.”
Earlier this month, we shared two heart-wrenching tales: Roman, who faced the unimaginable cruelty of a cable wrapped around his neck and being dragged by a car, and Jerry, a victim of intentional burning, left for dead by a heartless individual. These victims of appalling animal abuse found refuge with our trusted partners in Azerbaijan, who swiftly recognized the gravity of their conditions and provided urgent aid.
Knowing the complexity and costliness of their required veterinary care, we turned to our dedicated donors for support. Your overwhelming generosity ensured that Roman and Jerry received the critical medical attention they desperately needed.
Both dogs have a long road ahead before they’re healed, but thanks to you, they are no longer suffering alone. The veterinary team caring for them is dedicated to doing everything possible for these dogs. We remain committed to keeping you updated on their progress and eagerly anticipate the day we can share images of them, fully healed and thriving in loving homes—thanks to you.
Daily Hugz is the largest animal sanctuary in the West Bank, offering shelter to 65 rescue dogs. Virtually all of them have had to overcome life-threatening abuse, and yet, they radiate love and gratitude for their second chance at life. Daily Hugz has prioritized the most vulnerable animals, from abandoned pups to those struck by cars. For years, these precious animals have been able to run freely in the acre-wide sanctuary. But now, their lives hang in the balance.
While the focus has been on Gaza, violence has risen in the West Bank. Airstrikes, once rare in the area, have become increasingly common since the war began on October 7. For the safety of their animals, Daily Hugz is left with no other option but to close the sanctuary and find a way to bring their animals to safety. That’s where we come in. In partnership with Daily Hugz, we plan on evacuating these 65 dogs from the West Bank to the United States. Evacuating animals from a war zone is not easy, but we are committed to doing everything we can to ensure their safety.
Our team is already hard at work preparing for this life-saving mission. We’ve started rushing funds to ensure all dogs are vaccinated and that they receive necessary veterinary care for this critical flight. This is the first step of a long and complicated mission. But with the generous support of animal lovers like you, we know we can bring these dogs to safety. Join us in this vital mission—donate today to contribute to the vaccinations and medical care essential for preparing these 65 dogs for their journey to a secure and loving future!
Back in October we reached out to you with a heartbreaking plea from a domestic abuse survivor who desperately needed help to care for her beloved pup, Dewey. Through the darkest of times, Dewey had been by her human’s side providing her with love and comfort. All her human wanted was to ensure that Dewey was loved and cared for while she worked on healing from the trauma of the abuse she endured. With your help, we were able to make that possible. Not only did we find an incredible foster family to look after Dewey, but we were able to raise the necessary funds to give her the eye surgery she desperately needed and now Dewey is doing better than ever.
The holiday season is the perfect time to show some love to your furry friends and the pet parents in your life. Whether you’re shopping for your own pets or looking for the ideal gift for a fellow pet lover, we’ve curated a list of fantastic products that will make tails wag and hearts smile.
Transform your pet into a work of art with a custom watercolor illustration portrait from a talented Brooklyn artist. It’s a unique and heartfelt gift that captures your pet’s playful essence in a an adorable, lasting keepsake.
For the adventure-seeking pet parent and their trail buddy, the Adventure Medical Kits ADS Trail Dog First Aid Kit is a must-have. It’s specially designed to address common injuries dogs encounter on the trail, including paw problems. This kit includes dressings, bandages, and essential tools like a splinter picker/tick remover to keep your dog safe and healthy on your outdoor adventures.
Show your love for dogs and support a good cause with these adorable 100% cotton t-shirts featuring dogs in pilot uniforms. Profits from the sales support our Patriot Pets program which helps reunite U.S. pilots with their beloved animals, making it a gift that gives back.
Keep your pup cozy and your furniture clean with this baby-soft fleece dog blanket. It’s perfect for adding an extra layer of warmth to your dog’s bed or crate and serves as a protector against unwanted pet hair. Plus, it’s stylish and functional.
Simplify feeding time for your feline friend with the WOPET automatic cat feeder. You can set a feeding schedule through the WOPET Life APP, and even record a 10-second voice message to reassure your cat when you’re not around. This thoughtful device ensures your cat is always well-fed and feels your presence.
Promote healthy eating habits for your dog with this silicone slow feeder. It helps prevent indigestion, choking, and vomiting by slowing down their eating pace. The food-grade silicone material is safe and durable, ensuring your dog enjoys every meal without discomfort.
Celebrate your pet’s unique personality with a custom-made polymer clay figurine. Handcrafted with love, these figurines make for an exceptional gift for pet parents. They’re a lasting memento of the special bond between humans and their furry companions.
Make nail grooming stress-free for both you and your pet with this advanced electric nail grinder. The diamond drum bit grinder is safe and comfortable, and the quiet motor minimizes stress for your pet. Keep those claws in check without the hassle of traditional nail clippers.
Add a touch of elegance to your home decor with these cat suncatchers. Made from high-quality, fire-resistant plastic, they are a beautiful and unique way to show your love for cats. Hang them in a sunny spot to enjoy the mesmerizing play of light and color.
Get into the festive spirit with this “merry catmas” cat food or water bowl. Your cat will dine in style during the holiday season, and it’s sure to bring some extra cheer to your home decor.
For pet parents who want to keep a close eye on their dogs, the Fi Smart Dog Collar is a game-changer. With GPS and Wi-Fi tracking, step counting, and sleep tracking, you can ensure your dog is safe and active. Plus, it sends alerts if your dog ever escapes, helping you locate them quickly.
Treat your dog to the flavors they love with these natural, non-GMO biscuits. Made with whole wheat flour, peanut butter, pumpkin, chicken broth, bacon grease, cinnamon, and turmeric, these biscuits are a delicious and healthy snack for your furry companion.
This holiday season, celebrate the love between pets and their parents with thoughtful and enjoyable gifts that cater to their well-being, comfort, and style. Whether it’s a custom portrait, a practical first-aid kit, or a high-tech tracker, these gifts are sure to make tails wag and hearts melt.
