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Category: Feature Stories
Introducing: PAWsitive Recovery
We’re thrilled to announce that earlier this month, PAWsitive Recovery officially became a cherished member of the SPCA International family of programs, marking a momentous step forward in our organization’s unwavering commitment to enhancing the well-being of both animals and humans, especially those who have faced adversity. Through the PAWsitive Recovery program, we aim to provide people in recovery and animals in shelters a new “leash” on life, helping them heal from the wounds of addiction, trauma, and abuse.
The PAWsitive Recovery Program Will Offer:
Temporary Pet Foster Care: PAWsitive Recovery provides safe and nurturing foster homes for pets belonging to individuals seeking treatment or those who have experienced domestic violence. This ensures that these beloved companions are cared for while their owners focus on healing.
Pet Visits: Individuals undergoing treatment can now reunite with their cherished pets while receiving the support they need. This heartwarming experience fills them with hope, serves as a wellspring of encouragement, and gives them something to eagerly anticipate on their journey to recovery.
Volunteer/Community Service Opportunities: PAWsitive Recovery creates opportunities for those in recovery or healing from domestic violence to volunteer and engage with shelter animals. This fosters a profound sense of purpose and connection, as they work together to create brighter futures.
Animal-Focused Therapy: The initiative incorporates animals into therapy sessions within treatment centers and shelters, amplifying the benefits of mental and emotional healing. These furry companions provide unwavering support and a safe space for individuals to open up and heal.
Animal-Focused Workshops: Educational workshops within treatment centers and shelters are designed to deepen the understanding of the incredible advantages offered by the human-animal bond. These workshops equip individuals with knowledge about the therapeutic potential of animals.
We are excited about this new partnership and know that working together we will reach new heights, enabling this life-saving program to extend its transformative services to more communities than ever before.
Visit PAWsitive Recovery to learn more about this new SPCAI program and how you can help people and animals in need.
Rescued Puppies Now Safe Thanks to You
A group of U.S. soldiers deployed in the Middle East stumbled upon Rye, Copenhagen, Bongo, and Whiskey nestled in a bag discarded on the side of a bridge. The compassionate soldiers immediately took the puppies in. Without them, these innocent animals would not have survived.
For months, the soldiers and their newfound furry companions bonded, growing closer and closer. With their deployments ending soon, the soldiers contacted us for assistance. They needed help to bring their beloved patriot pets home.
Military protocols barred these loyal dogs from accompanying their saviors on military flights, leaving the soldiers with few options. Fearing the fate of the pups if separated, they turned to us for hope. Thanks to the incredible generosity of SPCA International donors, we rallied funds to ensure the safe journey of Rye, Copenhagen, Bongo, and Whiskey.
Today, these pups are under our care at our facility in Iraq. Our dedicated team is working tirelessly to prepare them for their much-awaited freedom flights to the U.S. Every detail is being tended to – from health checks and vaccinations to essential paperwork – all in preparation for their upcoming journey.
We’re eager to share the heartwarming reunions that lie ahead, so stay tuned for updates!
Answering the Call: SPCA International’s Response to China’s Floods
When the floods struck China, our partners on the ground reached out in desperation. Their plea for help triggered an immediate response from SPCA International. Amid the chaos, our partners faced a dire mission: to rescue 60 stranded dogs from a shelter rooftop and relocate another 400 dogs to higher ground for safety. Undeterred and brave rescuers risked their lives for days to save these animals. It took several days, but the rescuers were able to save the stranded dogs and bring them to safety.
What began as a rescue for 460 dogs grew into a mission to aid over 2,100 dogs across 12 shelters in China. It was a huge undertaking, but we knew we had to support our partners in every way possible. One of their biggest challenges was access to food.
The floods left these innocent animals stranded without food or safe drinking water, leaving them to eat spoiled kibble. But thanks to the incredible generosity of our donors, we were able to rally resources and supply 20 tons of kibble to the struggling shelters, ensuring no dog went hungry and replenishing their strength.
Although floodwaters have subsided in Beijing and Heiei, the aftermath lingers. Many shelters stand in ruins, needing repairs and rebuilding. Despite the hardships ahead, we are so happy to know that thanks to the rapid response from our partners on the ground and the compassion of our supporters, over 2,100 dogs are now safe and receiving the care and love they deserve.
We can’t express our gratitude enough for our supporters who answered the call in China’s darkest hour. And, of course, our partners for their relentless devotion to safeguarding these innocent lives.
To support future emergency relief efforts, donate towards our Disaster Relief Fund for Animals.
Against All Odds: Ziggy’s Remarkable Recovery
Last month, one of our partners sent us an urgent plea: they needed our help to save Ziggy, a sweet dog cruelly shot in the face by a heartless human. Thanks to the incredible support of generous donors like you, we were able to raise the necessary funds to ensure that Ziggy could receive the critical care he needed.
We rushed the funds to the veterinary team, allowing them to immediately conduct blood tests, x-rays and administer strong antibiotics to fight off infection and painkillers to ease his suffering.
The odds were undeniably stacked against Ziggy, but we refused to give up on him. The dedicated veterinary team provided round-the-clock care, leaving no stone unturned to help Ziggy regain enough strength for a crucial and life-saving surgery.
The operation, lasting 2.5 hours, was successful, and Ziggy is now on the road to recovery. He is still receiving treatment for Leishmania and Ehrlichia, and the team is hopeful that they will be able to save Ziggy’s vision in one eye.
Despite everything he’s endured, he is still loving and trusting and enjoys showering his caring medical team with affectionate cuddles and kisses.
While a second surgery is in the cards for Ziggy in the coming weeks, the veterinary team is optimistic that, with time to heal, he will go on to lead a healthy and joyous life. We can’t wait until Ziggy is fully recovered and able to find a loving home.
Be sure to follow us on social media for more updates on Ziggy’s recovery journey.
Want to help with Ziggy’s ongoing medical care? Donate today.
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If you are interested in giving Ziggy the caring forever home he deserves, please email [email protected], and we will contact you when Ziggy is available for adoption. Let’s get this good boy the home he is looking for!
Step Up for Animals: WeWard Helps You Walk for a Cause
We are teaming up with WeWard, a fantastic mobile app that allows its users to give back to charities they love simply by walking!
Now, you can walk, jog, or even run your way into being a hero for animals! Whether strolling in the park with your pup or hitting the treadmill, every step counts in making this world better for animals in need.
How to Use WeWard:
- Download the mobile app WeWard from the AppStore (Apple Users) or Google Play (Android Users)
- Authorize notifications for reminders to track your steps.
- Log in using your email, Apple account, Google account, or Facebook account.
- Allow WeWard access to your Health data to track your steps.
- Select your privacy settings, and you’re ready to go!
- You’re now all set to use WeWard. Follow the prompts to learn how to better use the app.
- The step-by-step instructions will teach you how to validate your steps. Be sure to convert your steps every day to get points.
How to Give Back to SPCA International Using WeWard:
- Click the green icon on the top left to view your Wards balance.
- Choose “solidarity” under your My Wards balance.
- Find SPCA International among the eligible charities. Once you have 300 Ward points, you can make a donation.
Join us on this exciting journey of turning your daily walks into a powerful force of good. Together, we can ensure that every animal, big or small, gets the love and care it deserves. So, lace up those shoes, get moving, and let’s save some furry lives!
Rescue on Wheels
Though our rescue missions frequently showcase dogs and cats, our passion for saving wildlife worldwide is just as strong. One of our proudest initiatives is funding the WA Wildlife Ambulance, which allows our partners in Australia to rescue animals in remote areas swiftly. Recently, the ambulance came to the rescue of a parrot shot by an 800mm arrow, a situation that could have been fatal without quick intervention.
Thanks to the timely response, our partners captured the bird within 30 minutes and rushed it to surgery at the WA Wildlife Hospital. Miraculously, X-rays showed the arrow missed all major organs. Our partners are providing constant care, and we’re optimistic about the parrot’s recovery and eventual release back into the wild.
This parrot is just one of the thousands of animals saved by the WA Wildlife Ambulance, and it’s all possible because of your generous support. Together, we continue to create a world where animals receive the care and compassion they deserve, no matter where they are.
Meet some of the animals rescued thanks to the WA Wildlife Ambulance:
Dzhesika’s Homecoming
Earlier this year, we introduced our Apollo’s Aid program with the aim of reuniting displaced refugees with their beloved pets. Not long after, a heartfelt plea reached us from a Ukrainian family who had escaped the war but had to leave their dear companion, Dzhesika, behind. Though they left her in trusted hands, their hearts yearned for her return.
Our dedicated team worked tirelessly to bring Dzhesika to safety, and we are thrilled to share that last month, she embarked on her freedom flight to New York City. Our hearts swelled as we welcomed her at the airport and witnessed her joyous reunion with her adoring family. There wasn’t a dry eye in the room as Dzhesika leaped into their arms.
None of this would have been possible without the support of our incredible community. To all who believe in our Apollo’s Aid program, thank you. Your generosity enables these heartwarming reunions, and we are forever grateful. This was our second Apollo’s Aid reunion, and we eagerly look forward to reuniting more families with their beloved companions in the future. Together, we are creating lasting memories of love and hope.
Together, we can create miracles! Donate today to bring joy, happiness, and wagging tails back into the lives of those who have been separated from their precious pets.
Rescuing Animals, Restoring Hope
The team is on the ground, and the life-saving work has begun! Operation Ukraine, the mobile veterinary clinic offering vital aid to owned, stray, and shelter animals impacted by the war, has been traveling through Ukraine for the last few weeks, and the team has already changed so many lives. We want to take a moment to celebrate some of the heartwarming rescues straight from the frontlines with you!
To support Operation Ukraine, consider making a donation or purchasing an Operation Ukraine t-shirt.
The First Operation Ukraine Patient
Talk about being in the right place at the right time! Just a few miles into Ukraine, the team encountered their very first patient: a stork that had been struck by a car. Two compassionate individuals had rushed to aid the injured bird when they spotted the mobile veterinary van parked at a nearby gas station. They ran over and brought the stork to the team, who provided the lucky bird with much-needed medical attention.
A Resilient Survivor
One particularly touching rescue was that of a dog caught in a blast, tragically losing the lower part of his front leg. Thankfully, his owner sought help from Operation Ukraine, and the team responded swiftly. They bandaged the dog’s wound, provided long-course painkillers and antibiotics, and offered comfort to both the pup and his devoted owner. Plans are underway to secure a prosthetic limb, but in the meantime, this brave dog is enjoying a happier and healthier life.
A Dog Battling Against All Odds
Found collapsed and experiencing seizures, Bean’s condition demanded immediate intervention. The team swiftly administered IV fluids to rehydrate him and diazepam to halt the seizures. X-rays revealed a shocking discovery—a bullet lodged in his leg. Bean’s condition was touch and go for a while, but with the expert care provided by Operation Ukraine’s veterinary team, Bean is now on the mend and looking forward to a brighter future.
A Pup Gets New Wheels of Hope
The devastating impact of war has left many dogs abandoned, their lives upended. Sable, a German Shepherd paralyzed from the hips down, is one of those animals. Fortunately, Sable was taken in by three compassionate local women. They knew they needed help to give Sable the life she deserves, and reached out to the Operation Ukraine team. The team provided Sable with a wheelchair, instantly lifting her spirits and transforming her life. She is now able to navigate her surroundings with newfound freedom.
A Cat’s Precious Connection
In the middle of a war zone, the team was reminded just how important the human-animal bond is when a cat in critical condition was rushed into the clinic. The cat was pregnant, and the kittens had become trapped inside her, putting her life at risk. So, the team jumped into action to save some lives! It was then that the owner revealed just how important this cat was to her family. The cat was saving her son’s life by helping him cope with PTSD from being in the war.
About Operation Ukraine:
Operation Ukraine is a mobile veterinary clinic operating in collaboration between SPCA International, Worldwide Vets, and Street Dog Coalition. It stands as a beacon of hope for animals in Ukraine, offering a lifeline to those affected by the war.
To support Operation Ukraine, consider making a donation or purchasing an Operation Ukraine t-shirt.
From Slaughterhouses to Loving Homes
Back in May, our Shelter Support partner, China Rescue Dogs, reached out to us for help. They had an incredible opportunity to save 21 dogs from the harrowing dog meat trade in China, and together, we sprang into action! Thanks to the unwavering support of our generous donors, we successfully raised the necessary funds to bring these precious pups to safety.
To protect the animals and the local rescuers involved, we kept many details confidential. But today, we’re thrilled to announce that the flight has landed, and these resilient survivors are finally out of harm’s way.
Before embarking on their journey to freedom, each dog was vaccinated and underwent comprehensive veterinary health testing, including rabies titres, microchipping, and meticulous documentation in China.. Upon arrival, they were thoroughly examined and granted entry by the U.S. Customs and Border Protection, the USDA and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Touching down in Los Angeles on June 26, the flight brought home 16 golden retrievers, two corgis, one poodle, and one malamute. The 21st dog rescued in this mission, who has special needs, arrived separately in the United States, thanks to the assistance of a dedicated flight volunteer.
Our team eagerly awaited the dogs’ arrival, ready to extend a warm welcome after their long journey. It was truly incredible to witness the unwavering friendliness that persisted in these dogs despite everything they have been through. After taking some time to decompress, the pups explored their new surroundings, offering cuddles to everyone around.
Remarkably, within a day of their arrival in the United States, the tiny and affectionate poodle found her loving forever home, where she’ll have furry siblings to guide her. Others embarked on their foster home journeys scattered across the country.
We are thrilled to see these wonderful dogs get a chance at a happy life, and we can’t wait to see updates of them in their loving forever homes.
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The dogs rescued in this mission are available for adoption through local rescues, including Rover’s Retreat, As Good As Gold Golden Retriever Rescue, Golden Retriever Rescue of Iowa, Love a Golden Golden Retriever Rescue, Golden Re-Triever Rescue of New Jersey, China Rescue Dogs, Golden Bond Rescue and Golden Retriever Rescue Resource. For adoption information, please contact them directly.