Homeless standard poodle + Hope For Paws' 17th Anniversary

Homeless standard poodle was hoping that someone would call us.

When Elizabeth Barajas texted me on the Hope For Paws emergency line, she shared with me that she feeds feral cats in an industrial area in Los Angeles.

One day, on her daily feeding routine, a matted dog showed up in search of food. The dog found the cat food, and she enjoyed the free meal.

Elizabeth offered her some food from the other side of the fence, but the dog wouldn't approach her, so she texted me. I was out of town the day I got the message, but I was scheduled to arrive that night and promised to be out there first thing in the morning.

I spent the whole next day waiting and searching, but she never showed up. I updated Elizabeth and told her, “I hope Animal Control didn't get him” (she thought it was a male), but she said, “No way they could have caught him”.

Seeing a video clip of her running, I decided to bring backup, so the next morning, Idan Riek and Katie McKittrick joined me. We split into two teams in search of the dog, and after a long search, I finally spotted her sleeping on someone's property!

I don't want to share the whole story in writing… it is best to watch it (until the end so you can see the complete transformation). 😊

Today is a special day because today we're celebrating the 17th anniversary of Hope For Paws!!! It is special because most organizations don't last this long (Median lifespan for pet rescues: 5–7 years) - most close due to burnout, lack of funds, or high emotional toll.

The only reason we are still here and going strong is YOU! Supporters like you make sure that all the animals we rescue receive the medical care they need, and that's why we don't burn out. We witness the most heartbreaking situations, but we can often fix almost everything. We are facing challenging obstacles, but we have the tools and skills to accomplish rescues that no one else can. It's also important to understand that most of the animals we help don't have a video or an exciting rescue story - they come from shelters with broken bones, giant tumors, and they all go to CARES for medical treatment. The team includes a board-certified surgeon, a trauma specialist, and a dedicated dream team of technicians who are working 24/7/365 to ensure the best care.

Because of you, hope is not just a word—it’s a lifeline, and every life we save is truly your legacy.

If you are not a member yet, please join us today with a small donation and it will be matched!

Look at Empress sleeping in my bed - finally clean, eating healthy food, resting comfortably without a worry in the world. 💖
 

Tomorrow I'll be celebrating my 50th birthday, and it would mean the world to me if you could convince one of your friends to join us so we can save more lives.

Thank you so much for sharing our stories and for standing with us for all these years.

Eldad