Since 1997, we have helped thousands of animals through RedRover Relief, formerly the LifeLine grant program. Meet some of them:
2013 RedRover Relief Grant Recipients
Shaggy
Shaggy has been a part of Tonya’s family since he was a puppy. When Tonya noticed Shaggy acting strangely, she immediately took him to the vet. There, it was discovered that Shaggy had kidney stones and two severe ear infections. Shaggy urgently needed surgery, but after spending her savings and rent money on vet bills, Tonya was unable to afford the entire surgery cost. She reached out to RedRover and we were able to quickly provide a RedRover Relief grant so that Shaggy could get the surgery he needed. Shaggy is now happily recovering at home with Tonya, who wrote RedRover an update after the surgery. She said, “Thank you so much for your help. Shaggy is feeling better every day; it makes me so happy to see him get back to his playful self. Shaggy and I think 'paws down' you are the best!”
Brody
Brody has been by Nicole’s side for seven years. So when Brody was hit by an off-road vehicle and ruptured a tendon, she was determined to get him the treatment he needed. After spending her savings on splints and casts, she got a second opinion from another vet who determined that Brody needed orthopedic surgery. Desperate for help, Nicole began online fundraising and also reached out to RedRover. We were able to approve a RedRover Relief grant and Brody was able to get the surgery he needed. Brody is happily recovering at home with Nicole and no longer has to work for surgery donations!
Einstein
After losing her home to Hurricane Sandy, Rebeka moved her daughter and their four cats from New Jersey to Florida to live with her parents. Rebeka was looking for a job to support her family of six when another tragedy struck: Einstein, her seven-year-old cat, became gravely ill with a urinary blockage. Rebeka spared no expense to get her "little best friend" the treatment he needed, including clearing out her savings account and driving four hours to get him to the vet, but fell short when the doctor prescribed a costly surgery. She applied for a RedRover Relief grant and was approved just in time to get Einstein’s lifesaving surgery underway. Rebeka sent this sweet note after receiving the grant: "I'm so happy to report that finally, as of today, Einstein is showing definite signs of his former awesome self! Thank you and RedRover so much for being angels to us during our time of need. Many, many people have looked at me like I was crazy when I tell Einstein's story; I get the 'but it's just a cat' response. Those types of people will never understand how much an amazing animal like Einstein can add/give to one's life. I'm so happy that you and the folks at RedRover understand."
Frijolito
When Frijolito (Spanish for "little bean") developed bladder stones and needed emergency surgery to remove them, Alejandra, who was unemployed at the time, knew she could not afford the entire cost of his surgery. Determined to save her beloved family member, Alejandra contacted RedRover for help. We provided a RedRover Relief grant and her "little bean" was able to get the surgery he desperately needed. After receiving the grant Alejandra wrote to RedRover, "Thank you so much for the help! Thankfully I was able to get him the surgery; otherwise he would not have made it. Once I am financially stable I will donate to RedRover to help other animals in need. I'm beyond thankful." Frijolito is now healthy and back to enjoying life at home!
Bailey
After we approved a RedRover Relief grant for Sarah and her dog Bailey, we received a sweet card saying, "You have a wonderful organization and I am so grateful for all you did for Bailey and others like her." Sarah found Bailey wandering the streets, malnourished and sick. Unable to find her owner, Sarah decided to get Bailey the medical treatment she needed. With a little help from RedRover, Bailey was able to recover and Sarah decided to adopt her. We applaud Sarah for her determination to get Bailey the treatment she needed and for giving her a loving forever home!
Louie
Do you believe in miracles? We do. Louie's story shows the power of a miracle in action. Melani and her family opened their home and their hearts to their dog Louie after he was rescued from the streets. Melani told RedRover, “He makes us all laugh. He is such a character. We got super lucky to be able to love and care for our Louie!” The family regularly enjoyed taking Louie and his sister Lily for hikes. During a recent hike, another dog came charging out of nowhere and attacked Louie. “It all happened so fast,” said Melani. “I didn’t have time to pick Louie up.” Louie suffered extensive injuries including six broken ribs and a punctured lung. Melani prayed for a miracle to save her dear Louie and reached out to RedRover for help. After spending $1,000 on Louie's initial visit to the emergency room, the family had no way to pay for his upcoming treatments. With extra help from a donor named Cindy, one of RedRover’s On-Call Angels, Louie received a $500 RedRover Relief grant (triple the size of the average grant) – just what Louie needed to get urgent treatment for this injuries from the brutal dog attack. Cindy told RedRover, “I am happy that at this point in my life I am able to help others – truly a blessing. Thank you also for the great work your organization does every day. I wish I had your courage to work in the field of animal care.” Louie still has a long recovery ahead of him, but he is doing better every day. Melani expressed her thanks: “Please thank the angel donor for us. Our family is in deep gratitude for the beauty we are shown in the generosity of others through this event. As well, the thoughts and love our little guy Louie is receiving must be helping him.”
Like Cindy did for Louie, you, too, can give the gift of lifesaving care through a special donation. To learn more about becoming one of RedRover’s On-Call Angels, please contact Linda Bak at lbak@redrover.org.
Charlie
"You guys helped me when no one else would." Here's another happy ending from RedRover Relief: Charlie the cockatiel was sick with a severe eye infection. The medication she urgently needed was very expensive and her owner, Angel, was not sure where to turn for help. She found the RedRover Relief program through an internet search and submitted her application. Angel was quickly approved for a grant to help with Charlie's treatment, and she had this to say: "I wanted to let you know, two days after she got her medicine she was feeling much better and started whistling and singing again. Thank you so much for everything you have done for us. Words cannot express how gladly I appreciate your organization."
Oggie
When Oggie needed emergency surgery to remove very large stones from her bladder, Irawan knew the surgery would cost thousands of dollars and that she could not afford the cost on her own. Determined to save Oggie’s life, she turned to RedRover for help. Irawan submitted an application for a RedRover Relief grant and was quickly approved for funding so Oggie could get the urgent surgery she needed. Irawan said, "I cannot thank you enough for the assistance RedRover provided. The grant was a great help to our family." After getting the stones removed, Oggie is now back at home and back to being her happy, healthy self.
Liam
Liam has had a history of bladder and urinary tract issues most of his life. When his caregiver, Alicia, learned that he had blocked for the third time in a row, she was devastated. The doctor suggested a surgery that would prevent Liam from re-blocking in the future, but it would cost thousands of dollars. Looking for help to pay for the costly surgery, Alicia found RedRover and submitted an online application for a RedRover Relief grant. In addition to approving a grant, RedRover’s case manager offered emotional support and resources that allowed Alicia the means to afford Liam’s treatment. With Liam back home, Alicia had this to say, "We want to thank you and everyone at RedRover for all of your amazing assistance and support. I was a nervous and upset wreck when I reached out to RedRover and thanks to all of your help and RedRover's generous assistance, I am so happy to say that Liam is doing well and we are looking forward to a very long future together!"
Princess
You may recall the story about Princess, the beloved companion of a homeless man named David in Sacramento, California. They are well-known and liked by area locals, including two downtown workers, Erika and Dorothy. Princess was having trouble walking; David was able to get her to a veterinarian where she was diagnosed with hip dysplasia and given pain medication. This treatment didn't seem to help and her condition continued to worsen. Finally, Princess collapsed in front of Erika's office building and refused to get up. Erika took Princess to her own vet and x-rays were able to show that she did not have hip dysplasia, but ruptured cruciate ligaments in both knees that needed surgery. Princess is currently staying with Erika to ensure that no additional injury is done to her knees while she is waiting for surgery, but she still gets frequent visits with David. Erika and Dorothy have done a wonderful job of fundraising, and RedRover has approved a RedRover Relief grant to help get Princess's first of two surgeries scheduled. David, who once thought euthanasia was the only option for his best friend, is so grateful for the community of animal lovers that have come together to help Princess. For more information about Princess, and some very touching videos and pictures, please see her Facebook page, Progress for Princess.
Bentley
Bentley was abandoned as a kitten and brought to a local animal shelter where Greta met him and fell in love. When Bentley stopped eating, Greta immediately took him into the vet, where x-rays determined he had an intestinal blockage. He needed surgery to remove the obstruction but Greta did not have enough funds to cover the entire cost. Out of options, Greta turned to RedRover for help. Thanks to a RedRover Relief grant, Bentley was able to receive the surgery he needed to save his life. Today, Bentley is happy and healthy, and back home with the people that love him. Greta says, "He is doing so much better! A BIG thank you to RedRover for helping us through such a difficult situation, both emotionally and financially. We are so happy that Bentley made it through this and extremely thankful that you were generous enough to help us." Thank YOU, our caring community of animal lovers, who make stories like these possible!
2012 RedRover Relief Grant Recipients
Bruno
Ashley and Andrew adopted Bruno from their local animal shelter and welcomed him into their home and into their hearts. When Bruno was diagnosed with bladder stones one month later, there was no question about what they were going to do: get Bruno the care he needed, no matter the cost. With help from a RedRover Relief grant and a rescue-friendly veterinarian who agreed to cap the cost of surgery, Bruno was able to get the surgery he needed. During his recovery, we received this very sweet note from Ashley and Andrew: "Thank you again for everything you did for us and Bruno. You all truly gave us the greatest Christmas gift in helping heal our family member!"
Lou Lou Bea
To Crystal and her family, Lou Lou Bea "is part of our family, not just a dog." When Crystal found out Lou Lou Bea had a tumor the size of a softball, she didn’t know how she would come up with the funds for surgery to remove the tumor. Crystal contacted RedRover and we were able to quickly approve a RedRover Relief grant to get Lou Lou Bea the treatment she needed. Lou Lou Bea is doing much better now and back at home with her devoted family. Crystal wrote recently to RedRover, "Thank you again…there are no words to express my family’s gratitude for the RedRover Relief program."
Mya
Mya’s family is grateful to have their "baby Mya" back home. A RedRover Relief grant helped pay for emergency vet care after Mya was hit by a car. A neighbor witnessed the accident unfold: As Mya and her caregiver attempted to cross the street, a speeding car hit and stopped on top of Mya. After extensive treatment, Mya is recovering well. Melissa had this to share with RedRover: "Thank you so very much for all of your help with Mya. I just can't wait to see her run again for the very first time. She gets her stitches out tomorrow...so that's kind of exciting too!"
Laila
This is Laila getting a kiss from her best friend. Laila was hit by a car while she was taking an on-leash walk with her owner, Sara. Laila suffered some traumatic injuries, and Sara reached out to RedRover Relief for help. Before her grant was even approved, Sara had this to say about RedRover: "Thank you so much for you immediate response. I really appreciate you, and the generosity and kindness of your foundation. I will be sure to make a donation to RedRover when I am in a better financial position." Would you like to support our work to help animals like Laila? Donate today: www.redrover.org/donate
Una
When Nikki discovered that her puppy Una's eye had swollen shut, she rushed Una to an emergency clinic. While there, Nikki learned that immediate surgery was needed to prevent Una's eye from rupturing – but Nikki and her family had no money left to treat Una's eye after the emergency visit. Desperate to help her sweet puppy, Nikki contacted RedRover and was relieved to receive a RedRover Relief grant to help fund Una's surgery. Una is doing well now and back at home with her family. Nikki recently wrote to RedRover, "I can’t express enough the appreciation my family feels for your help…I would've never known what to do without RedRover helping me with Una’s surgery."
Nemo
"I never thought I would be able to find someone to help me even in the littlest and you guys proved to me that there are people out there that really do care." Kellie rescued Nemo's mother eight years ago, not knowing that the cat was pregnant at the time; Nemo and his two siblings were soon welcomed into her life as well. When Kellie noticed that something was wrong with Nemo she immediately took him to the veterinarian. He was diagnosed with crystals in his urine and a blocked urethra and needed immediate care. Kellie contacted RedRover, and we were able to help with the cost of Nemo's emergency treatment by approving a RedRover Relief grant. He is doing well now, and all of Kellie's cats are on a special diet to help prevent this from happening again. Kellie added, "I cannot thank you enough. I am crying here. You guys are great.”
Chloe
When Cathy's dog Chloe was diagnosed with pyometra (an infection of the uterus), Cathy was both shocked and guilt-stricken. She told RedRover, "If I had known, I would have spayed her much, much earlier." Cathy reached out to RedRover in desperation after learning that surgery would cost $2,500. With guidance from her RedRover Relief case manager, Cathy found a vet willing to perform the surgery for a fraction of the cost. Cathy sent this note to RedRover after Chloe's successful surgery: "My heart is full with happiness and so much gratitude I don't know how to express it enough. Chloe is recovering well. She is almost herself again. She's happy, the kids are happy and I am just overwhelmed with so much joy."
Zombie
After surviving Superstorm Sandy, a New York family received the best news of all concerning their beloved dog Zombie, who had problems with reoccurring kidney stones. RedRover Relief was ready to provide a much-needed financial assistance grant, but the doctor determined that surgery was not needed after all. "We want to thank you from the bottom of our hearts for offering to help with his surgery… I am so glad to know that there are organizations like RedRover that offer this type of assistance during these hard times. You have been so helpful during this hard time and we are looking forward to one day being able to donate money to RedRover when we get back on our feet."
Daunte
Tanya and her cat, Daunte, have been best friends for 12 years. When Daunte developed a tumor on her head that needed to be removed, Tanya turned to RedRover Relief for help. Daunte's surgery is now done and best news of all: Daunte is cancer free! What was originally thought to be a cancerous tumor turned out to be a benign mass. Tanya recently gave RedRover a 5-star review on GreatNonprofits. "RedRover was not only amazing in their donation towards Daunte's care, but with giving advice to other ways to help raise money for her care and just genuinely caring and compassionate towards both my cat and me." Read more from Tanya's review: www.greatnonprofits.org/reviews/redrover/#r_id-122522--user_id-166864
Duke
Duke is sitting pretty now thanks to help from the RedRover Relief program. The big dog's "happy tail" got the best of him one day – a deep laceration later became infected, and Duke needed urgent care. His family was going through a tough time; they were so relieved to receive a RedRover Relief grant so that Duke could get the treatment he needed. "This is the picture from the first night at the emergency veterinarian. Duke was sitting, as he usually does, waiting patiently to see the doctor. Thanks again RedRover for giving help when it is most needed." -Sheena, Kendall and Duke
Mark Onnet
This beautiful Thoroughbred, Mark Onnet (known as Buddy to his friends), is receiving lots of TLC and much needed veterinary treatment thanks to help from the RedRover Relief program. Buddy had been kept in a pen, ankle-deep in mud, and made to starve until he was so weak he could stand for only 15 minutes at a time. Thankfully, a kind animal lover and Thoroughbred expert with Humanity for Horses came to his rescue and applied for a RedRover Relief grant to help him get the care he needed. Here he is grazing in the sun at his new home. Doesn't Buddy look like a happy boy?
Jade
Jade, an adorable five-week-old kitten, had a very rough start in life. She was thrown from a moving vehicle onto the highway and left in the road to succumb to her injuries. Luckily for Jade, she was found by a Good Samaritan, named Angela. Angela brought Jade home and she and her sister, Carrie, immediately started working to get Jade medical attention. After taking her to a veterinarian in town, they learned that Jade had a broken pelvis and would need a very expensive surgery to correct the damage, so Carrie and Angela started fundraising. They created a Facebook page called Help Save Jade, a ChipIn.com account for fundraising, and they contacted the RedRover Relief program.
A veterinarian at Jerrettsville Veterinary Center learned of Jade's plight on Facebook and offered their services. After a consult with the vet, everyone interested in Jade's welfare received the best of news: Jade's injury, while still severe, was starting to heal. Her nerves were functioning and her pelvis was knitting – she was even starting to walk! The veterinarian said that although Jade would always have a limp, surgery would not be necessary.
Once it was discovered that Jade would not need surgery, the people who had already donated to her cause were gracious enough to pass the funds along to RedRover and Jerrettsville Veterinary Center to help other animals in need. Carrie and Angela had this to say about their experience: "If we hadn't had the support and encouragement to get the word out about Jade, we wouldn't have met the vet who was able to help. If we hadn't gotten so many assurances from personal donors and two major organizations, that we could all find a way to pay for her treatment together, we would have had no choice but to give Jade up to a shelter, in hopes that they could save her, but most likely she would have been put to sleep."
In this case, we were trying to help Jade, but Jade helped RedRover instead! We are grateful for the kind supporters who donated $345 to support the RedRover Relief program.
Watch Jade's video:
C. Ment
Many of you learned about C. Ment, the Irish wolfhound who needed help after he was found trapped in a rock quarry. Days passed before anyone heard his bark; C. Ment was severly dehydrated and emaciated, so weak that he could barely hold his head up. But thanks to your generous donations, RedRover Relief was able to provide a grant for his lifesaving veterinary care. Here is an update on how this gentle giant is doing:
After C. Ment was rescued from the quarry, he was taken in by The Sanctuary at Haafsville, a local rescue organization. It was never found out where C. Ment came from, but he went to a foster home and continues to gain his strength. Staff from The Sanctuary at Haafsville told RedRover, "He has turned out to be a gracious older gentleman, probably deaf. He is now able to stand up on his own, getting around more and more each day. We feel his future is bright."
May 4, 2012 Update: C. Ment has officially been adopted by his foster family!
Sophie
When Brittany adopted Sophie a year ago, it was clear that Sophie’s previous owner had not been able to keep up with her care. Sophie’s fur was matted and she had a horrible ear infection. After a few trips to the vet and the groomer, along with a lot of love and attention, Sophie was looking and feeling much better.
However, a recent check-up at the veterinarian found that Sophie also needed some urgent dental work. One of Sophie's teeth had cracked quite some time ago; only a portion of it remained in her mouth. Sophie’s gums were becoming infected and the doctor recommended immediate treatment to prevent further complications. Not sure how she was going to cover the cost for this surgery, Brittany contacted RedRover Relief for help. Her grant request was approved quickly and Sophie was able to receive the care she needed. She is now a healthy and happy member of Brittany's household. Sophie's cuteness inspires smiles everywhere she goes.
Peter Pin
Shoshona and her service dog, Peter Pin, are constant companions. Peter Pin helps Shoshona, a disabled veteran, live her life to its fullest and is a wonderful "animal ambassador" to help people learn about service dogs and how important they are to the people who rely on them. During an emergency visit to the veterinarian for severe swelling from a bee sting to Peter's face, Shoshona learned that Peter needed dental surgery as well. A growth was discovered behind his front teeth. The growth made eating difficult and needed to be removed, along with six of his teeth. After having spent more than she could afford on the initial emergency visit, Shoshona reached out to RedRover Relief. With RedRover's help, as well as help from a few other organizations, Peter Pin was able to get the surgery he needed.
Peter is home now and feeling much better. In an email to RedRover, Shoshona had this to say: "I look forward to the day when I can 'pay it forward' and actually donate back to you folks to help you continue to help more animals in need. I had no idea such programs existed to help poor animal guardians with critical vet costs and I am so grateful you were there! Thank you again for helping Peter Pin and myself. Peter may not understand or have the ability to thank you, but if he met you, he'd befriend you and try to become your best friend (even without treats!)"
Sydney
Beth is an animal lover whose dedication is so great, she seems to end up with animals who need a bit more help than usual from their human caretakers. From leg surgeries, to arthritis, to cancer, Beth has a lot of experience caring for animals with special needs. When Sydney, her beloved orange tabby, was diagnosed with hyperthyroidism, Beth knew that getting Sydney treatment was the only option. Beth and her veterinarian tried treating Sydney with standard medications, but Sydney's system was sensitive to them and they made her very ill. The veterinarian told Beth about Iodine 131, a treatment that, with one shot, can destroy a thyroid tumor – and though is was expensive, it sounded like the perfect option. Beth reached out to RedRover, and with a RedRover Relief grant she was able to get Sydney the treatment that she needed.
In an update on Sydney's condition, Beth had this to say: "It's been a bit over two months since she had her treatment. Bloodwork last week shows her thyroid is finally normal again. She's gained a whole pound and looks like a healthy cat instead of a skinny old bag of fur. Thank you so much to RedRover for helping me with my girl. Your support is invaluable to people like me. Thank you doesn't even begin to express how grateful I am that you too saw the value in saving my sweet kitty!"
Mac
Imagine this: You're driving down the street and see an animal on the side of the road. He has been hit by a car and is severely injured. What would you do? Earlier this month, Heather did what came naturally to her: she stopped, got out of her car and approached the injured pup. “He crawled over to me. I picked him up and took him to the nearest emergency vet," she told RedRover. The one-year-old pup had no microchip or tags, but clearly a will to survive as he pulled himself towards Heather in hopes of getting help.
The dog, later named Mac, needed immediate treatment for shock and had sustained injuries to his snout, jaw, hip and leg. Heather and her husband were able to cover Mac’s overnight stay at the hospital, but worried when they learned of the extensive injuries and costly treatment plan. They wanted to do whatever they could to help Mac and reached out to RedRover Relief and the online community for support. Mac was able to get the treatment he needed and although he has a long way to go with his recovery, he now has a second chance a life. Heather shared her thoughts about Mac with one of RedRover’s case managers: “He is the sweetest dog and we are seeing his personality come out more every day. Once his surgery is complete and his recovery fully begins, I think he's going to have a really nice comfy life. You and RedRover have really helped this to happen.
Bear
Bear, a cute and fluffy puppy, was playing outside with his four-legged friends when something across the street caught his attention. When his caregiver, Maria, arrived home after a trip to the store, she was closing the gate when Bear slipped by her and darted out into the street. Before Maria could catch him, Bear was struck by a passing truck.
Maria and her son rushed their injured pup to the vet where he was diagnosed with a broken pelvis, broken leg and displaced hip. Bear was alive, but he needed immediate surgery to survive. Maria reached out to RedRover Relief when she learned that surgery would cost hundreds more than her family could afford. Maria was approved for a $150 grant within the same day and also collected $200 from family and friends. Thankfully, there was no delay in treatment, and Bear’s surgery was a success.
Maria had this to say after receiving the grant: “Bear is home and doing well today because of the help you gave us to treat his injuries, instead of putting him down due to our lack of funds to get his injuries fixed properly. Thank you so much, from the bottom of our hearts. I will let people know of the awesome group you are and encourage people who love animals, as much as we do, to donate when they can so you can continue to save other peoples family members as well.”
Scotti
Imagine being stuck in your home because of massive snowfall with a severely injured pet, unable to leave because you don't have a vehicle that can get out. Jeni doesn't have to imagine. As her dogs were roughhousing one day, Scotti, a rescued pekingese, was injured. Somehow his eye had come loose from the socket and he needed emergency care to fix it. The local animal control agency was kind enough to pick Scotti up and drive him to the closest veterinarian since Jeni's regular vet was closed for the day. Unfortunately, the price quoted for treatment was extremely high, needed to be paid up front, and Jeni could not afford it. The veterinarian returned Scotti the next day and Jeni immediately contacted her regular vet. She had applied for a RedRover Relief grant on the evening of the injury, so by the time she'd contacted her regular vet and gotten a much more reasonable price quote, everything was in place so RedRover Relief could help. Scotti's eye could not be saved, but that doesn't seem to be affecting him much. Per Jami, "He still bounces around, does his ballerina dance, all luv bug, tail waggin', sleepin' at the foot of my bed, snoring away... still the same ol' boy, just minus an eye... Again, Thank You for your Help!"
Weezer
Weezer, an eight-year-old pit-hound cross, was surrendered by her family to a humane society last spring. Six months passed with no potential adopters in sight, and Weezer’s time was running out. Luckily, Larisa, a former guide dog trainer, was looking for a new friend to welcome into her family. She told RedRover: “I adopted Weezer because she was there the longest. I wanted to get her out and give her a chance at a good life.”
But, before Larisa and Weezer could get settled into their new family, Weezer came down with a sudden illness. Larisa contacted RedRover Relief for help when she learned that Weezer was suffering from an acute pancreatic attack that would require extensive hospitalization to treat. Thankfully, with RedRover’s help, Weezer was able to get the treatment she needed and she’s feeling much better now. Grateful for the extra help, Larisa wrote: “Thanks so much! She is at the vets today for another day of IV treatment. RedRover is fantastic!”
Delmar
Ruthann’s cat, Delmar, was hit by a car and sustained very serious injuries. His left hind leg was badly broken, and he had broken ribs, bruised lungs and an injury to his face. After a week spent at the vet hospital, which also required use of breathing equipment, Delmar was able to come home to recover. After a month at home, Ruthann said that Delmar’s healing was nothing short of miraculous, except for his leg. A piece of bone was exposed and the wound surrounding it was not healing properly. The veterinarian said that the piece of exposed bone needed to be removed, since the longer the wound was open the more likely the risk of infection. Because Delmar’s initial treatment was so costly, Ruthann needed financial help for this critical procedure. She found RedRover Relief via internet search, applied for a grant and was approved. After Delmar was back at home, we received this from Ruthann: “On behalf of my family, we cannot thank RedRover enough for the help funding Delmar's surgery. It has tremendously alleviated the financial burden that his accident has caused. He had the surgery on his leg and has recovered swimmingly. He is moving about pain free, and is (almost) as good as new.”
Buster
Just before Christmas, Paula was contacted about an eight-year-old Yorkshire terrier named Buster who was scheduled to be euthanized at a shelter in Sacramento. As a foster mom with Yorkshire Terrier National Rescue, Paula agreed to foster Buster and set out on a road trip from Manteca to retrieve the pup. Unfortunately, Buster came home with a bad upper respiratory infection that later turned into pneumonia, even after he was treated with antibiotics. Paula reached out to RedRover Relief when she learned that Buster would need overnight hospitalization to treat the pneumonia, treatment that would cost hundreds more than she could afford. After receiving a grant, Paula told RedRover, “Thank you for your generosity! Buster is feeling a lot better now. He is finally eating and drinking on his own and was finally able to get a good night’s sleep.” We’re happy to report that Buster is now available for adoption and ready to meet his forever family.
2011 RedRover Relief Grant Recipients
Popper
Popper calls Beauty’s Haven Farm and Equine Rescue home, and so does her owner, Theresa. Popper is a little Boston terrier who provides Theresa with lots of love and laughter, support that is always needed with the emotionally draining rescue work that is Theresa’s life. Beauty’s Haven is a large rescue and runs with the help of local volunteers, so people are often coming and going on the property. Unfortunately, an exit gate was not properly secured one day and Popper found her way outside. Theresa saw Popper wander out, but could not get to her in time, and poor Popper was suddenly hit by a truck. The truck drove off, leaving Popper with a dislocated hip and two broken femurs, and Theresa with no idea how she was going to pay for Popper’s care.
Because of her work in rescue, Theresa knew about the RedRover Relief program. She applied for a grant and was quickly approved. With RedRover’s grant and support from a rescue community that loves her, Theresa was able to get Popper the surgery needed to save her life and set her on the road to recovery. Theresa had this to say to RedRover: “We're truly blessed that others care and have helped. I thank God often for giving us more time with Popper. Thank you and RedRover for your help - I can't thank you enough.”
Romeo
When Marissa adopted a German shepherd puppy named Romeo from the animal shelter, she hoped it would be the start of a long, new life for him. But when they got home, Marissa noticed Romeo wasn’t feeling well. After an emergency trip to the vet, Marissa learned that little Romeo had been ingesting rocks -his belly was filled with stones.
The vet told Marissa that the rocks would eventually kill Romeo if he did not have surgery soon. Marissa was frightened when she learned the surgery would cost $2,000. She explained, “Knowing there was absolutely no way I could afford this, I started looking on the Internet for help. Email after email, call after call, I FINALLY found RedRover and the sweetest person I ever came across.” RedRover’s case manager provided resources and emotional support that led Marissa to find a compassionate vet willing to perform the surgery for half the cost. RedRover immediately pledged a $200 RedRover Relief grant to get Romeo’s surgery underway. After sharing Romeo’s story with RedRover’s Facebook fans, donations poured in from all across the country, and enough money was raised to cover the balance for Romeo’s surgery.
It took a whole community effort to save this little champ. He pulled through surgery with flying colors! Marissa was amazed by the support from RedRover’s online community: “He was skinny when I got him from the shelter. I felt so bad for him. My heart just drew me to him! I'm so happy so many people were willing and able to be so kindhearted! I am very touched everyone helped me save this little heartbreaker!! With utmost gratitude, Marissa”
Turkey
A tiny Chihuahua-mix was running loose on Thanksgiving Day in a busy intersection when Janell, a veteran animal rescuer, spotted him. She and her sister tried everything they could to lure the scared dog in, but inevitably he was hit by a car. The two scooped him up and rushed to their nearby vet where they met a technician who had put her holiday plans on hold to meet them there. They spent hours working on the little guy. Three pelvic fractures were discovered but luckily, no nerve damage. The pup, affectionately named Turkey, could still wag his tail, a very good sign for recovery, but he needed surgery. When Janell learned that Turkey’s owner no longer wanted the “broken” dog and that the surgery would cost hundreds more than she could afford, even with a generous discount from the surgeon, she reached out to friends and family and launched an online fundraiser that included a grant request to RedRover.
After receiving the RedRover Relief grant, Janell had this to say about her experience, “We knew we absolutely had to get him to surgery ASAP, but were losing sleep over how big our bill was going to be. I can now sleep at night. Thank you for what you do! He is one happy (although very scared) little man. We’ll get him all fixed up and into the lap of luxury in no time.”
Sadie
As Sadie, a beautiful black Labrador retriever, tells it, her story starts as she waited patiently at the Downey Shelter for a new family to welcome her into their home. When the Taylors arrived, Sadie knew she’d found her new family and was eager to leave shelter life behind and start fresh with her new pack. But little did Sadie or the Taylors know, she would come home with a serious upper respiratory infection. The infection quickly went from bad to worse when it turned into pneumonia. The Taylors, being very dedicated to their new family member, took Sadie to the vet for emergency care, but this was not an expense the Taylors had anticipated, and so they turned to RedRover Relief for help. A grant was approved, and after three weeks of care Sadie was over her infection and finally able to start enjoying her new life. Sadie’s new pack leader helped her write a thank you to everyone involved in her care: “Thank You! Thanks for your part in my care! You prayed for me, you gave money for me, you stood by me, you hand fed me, you worried about me and most importantly you cared about me! There are many canines that need help, yet, you helped me! And I am able to enjoy my territory with my new pack because of your part! Thank you!”
Hildi
Exotic Animal Rescue Pet Sanctuary (EARPS), an all-volunteer run rescue group based in Indiana, took Hildi and two other rabbits into their foster program to ease the burden on their local humane society. All was going well until one day when Hildi began showing signs of a urinary blockage. X-rays revealed a stone the size of a robin’s egg in Hildi’s bladder and the vet recommended immediate surgery. The rescue had depleted emergency funds on a sick rat days before and they were short of money. EARPS sent a plea for help to its Facebook followers and applied for a RedRover Relief grant online. Thanks to help from a caring community of animal lovers, Hildi is now back to her cute, healthy self. This "even-keeled, calm, and relaxed" bun is up for adoption by EARPS: http://www.petfinder.com/petdetail/18845395
Minni
Minni, a very cute brown and white Chihuahua, was having some serious problems with her teeth. She'd developed a nasty infection and to keep it from affecting her organs she needed to have both a deep cleaning and several teeth extracted. Minni's owner Yolanda knew that the dental surgery needed to be done, but even with a veterinarian willing to work with her on the price she wasn't sure she'd be able to afford it. The veterinarian directed Yolanda to the RedRover Relief program and once her application was approved Minni was taken into surgery. She came out with 23 less teeth than she started with, and is now feeling a whole lot better. Minni and her Chihuahua sister Dulce had belonged to Yolanda’s husband before he passed away, and she intends to hold on to them for as long as possible. Yolanda was so relieved to have the extra help from RedRover, "I would like to say thank you again. Your help is truly a blessing."
Logan
Last Spring, Savannah and her mom ran into a little boy with a cardboard box full of homeless kittens. Savannah convinced her mom to adopt Logan, who was the runt of the litter, along with one of his littermates. Logan and his sister won the hearts of the entire family. All was going well until one day, Logan went missing. He later turned up with a severely injured leg. After a visit with the vet, the family learned that treatment would cost hundreds of dollars, even after a discount from their teaching hospital. Unable to afford the entire cost of treatment, Savannah’s mom reached out to friends and family and RedRover for assistance. A $200 grant from the RedRover Relief program, combined with the family’s contributions, was just enough to get Logan’s surgery underway. Grateful for the help, Jennifer wrote to RedRover, “Thank you so much! Here is a picture of Savannah and her faithful Logan.”
Amber
Amber was left tied to the front door of the Lassen County Animal Control Department, presumably because of the very large tumor growing on her left foot. The two-year-old Australian cattle dog had a wonderful personality and the staff did not want to have to put her to sleep. Thankfully, an independent rescuer named Christina found a shelter that would take Amber in – as long as Christina could come up with a way to cover Amber’s medical expenses. With some local help Christina got the tumor removed from Amber’s foot, but the damage done by the tumor was extensive and when the wound turned necrotic, the veterinarian said that amputation was the only option. A friend told Christina about RedRover and Christina wasted no time putting in an application for a RedRover Relief Grant, which was quickly approved. Amber has since been adopted and is now a happy and loved tripawed family member. She even has a new herding partner, a border collie named Jack.
Shiloh
Alan and his two cherished cats live frugally, surviving on a small monthly retirement check. Alan manages to afford routine expenses and has made a comfortable home for himself and his cats in his van. When an unexpected accident sent his cat Shiloh to the veterinarian, Alan worried about his ability to afford proper treatment. Shiloh was keeping her dad company, but standing a little too close one day, when a hammer slipped from Alan’s grip. The sweet cat took a blow to the face and cracked a tooth. Alan was able to get Shiloh to the vet, but the $900 price tag seemed way out of his reach. RedRover Relief case managers gave Alan advice and understanding, additional financial resources, and a $200 grant that helped Shiloh get the treatment she needed. After the grant was approved, Alan wrote, “Shiloh is comfortable and relaxed now. THANK YOU so very much for being the ones to kick this effort off the ground and get me goin'.”
Bella
Bella, a one-year-old pit bull, has overcome some major obstacles in her relatively short life. When Bella was just six months old, she was abandoned by her owner due to a home foreclosure. A passerby found the skinny, shy and hungry dog wandering the streets full of scabs and scars, and limping. Bella was taken in by a volunteer group devoted to rescuing pit bulls, and later adopted by Shaw, a student at UC Davis who was looking for a canine companion. Shaw and Bella immediately bonded, but their bond was in jeopardy when Shaw came home one day and discovered Bella had consumed an entire bottle of Ibuprofen. Shaw rushed Bella to the vet where he learned treatment would cost $1,000. He sent desperate pleas for help including a grant request to the RedRover Relief program. After receiving the grant, Shaw wrote to RedRover, “It has been a HUGE weight lifted from my shoulders during an extremely stressful experience. You helped save my dog’s life.”
Blue Lady
Libby’s cat Blue Lady has had a few lucky breaks in her life. The first was finding Libby back in 2005. Blue Lady was homeless, had been hit by a car and needed some serious TLC. She joined Libby’s family and found a best friend in the family dog, Rontu. Another lucky break came when her veterinarian diagnosed a tumor early enough that, with surgery, her prognosis was very positive. Libby was excited to know that Blue Lady had a good chance for survival, but the surgery was expensive and she was not sure how she was going to afford it. She contacted RedRover and was able to receive a RedRover Relief grant that helped to fill the financial gap to get Blue Lady the surgery she needed. Libby wrote, “Blue Lady, Rontu and I are SO grateful for RedRover's assistance, thank you!!”
Nala
Rebekah, a teacher and animal lover, did everything she could to prepare for the unexpected veterinary emergency. She had set aside an emergency fund for her animals, but quickly depleted those funds when her Golden retriever Nala became ill after a routine spay surgery. Nala developed a fever and swelling at the site of the incision and even lost significant weight in just a matter of days. The vet clinic wanted to hospitalize Nala right away, but Rebekah and her family could not afford the full bill. Instead, Rebekah opted for minimal treatment: fluids, antibiotics and pain meds to take home. She and her oldest daughter spent hours each day taking care of Nala, but despite their efforts, Nala later developed a large hernia at the site of the incision. Rebekah reached out to RedRover Relief for assistance and was grateful for the help, “She is on the mend and back to being a happy-go-lucky dog. Thanks so much for your help.”
Roxy
Roxy the Rottweiler is living with Katlyn and her father, while her owner, Nicole, is serving in the military. New to being a “country dog”, Roxy was unfortunately a bit too curious about a porcupine and ended up with quills embedded in many parts of her body. Porcupine quills are quite dangerous as they not only carry bacteria that can cause infection, but the quills have one-way barbs that make them work their way deeper into the body with every movement. Katlyn is in school and her father is unemployed, so their budgets are tight. They tried removing the quills themselves, but could not get all of them, and even one day later infection was setting in. Katlyn found the RedRover Relief program online and sent us a request for help. With a grant of $200, Katlyn and her father were able to get Roxy to the vet to have the quills removed and her infection taken care of. Roxy is now home and feeling much better, thanks to her quick thinking guardians and RedRover!
Riley
Riley, an adorable eight-year-old dachshund, is an important member of Jennifer Goldsworthy’s life. When Riley suddenly became ill, Jennifer exhausted all of her resources to pay for emergency surgery to unblock Riley’s intestines. He seemed to be doing well after surgery, but one month later, he relapsed. Jennifer was devastated. Her hours at work had been cut and she had depleted her savings paying for the first surgery. Jennifer scoured the Internet for assistance and found the RedRover Relief grant application. Within hours of her application submission, one of RedRover’s case managers contacted her to say her application was approved. A few days after surgery, Jennifer wrote, “The doctor said he looked one hundred percent better …. He's putting on weight and is starting to act like his normal self. I just want to says thanks again for your all your help.”
Brutus
Brutus was found at the Sacramento County Animal Shelter by Jacqueline Logan, a volunteer with LAPCATS Rescue. While Brutus was at the shelter, his urethra became blocked; because he could not urinate his body was quickly poisoning itself. Seeing his distress, Jacqueline pulled Brutus from the shelter and took him to her veterinarian to see if he could be saved. The veterinarian tried conservative treatment for a few days, hoping to keep the cost down for Jacqueline and LAPCATS. But it soon became evident that Brutus’ problem could only be corrected with a $1,300 surgery. Jacqueline reached out to both RedRover and her local rescue community for help saving Brutus. A $200 grant from RedRover ensured that Brutus got the surgery he needed. Jacqueline told us, “We could not have done this without your help and Brutus would not be alive today.” (Brutus is up for adoption! Learn more)
Buttercup
Kristin Guertin and her family began fostering Buttercup, a two-year-old Lop rabbit, when the bunny was just two weeks old. At that time, she was suffering from multiple injuries and her prognosis was very guarded. While caring for Buttercup, the entire family fell in love with her, and she eventually made a complete recovery and found a permanent home with the Guertins. Earlier this year, Buttercup hurt her eye during regular play and the Guertins found themselves in a bind, because they could not afford the recommended treatment. The veterinarian tried alternate, less costly treatments to no avail, and Buttercup’s health soon began to deteriorate. Kristin reached out to a local rescue for help and they referred her to RedRover for additional assistance. A RedRover Relief grant combined with help from other sources, including a $35 contribution from Kristin's eight-year-old daughter’s savings account, ensured there was no further delay in treatment. Buttercup is now able to enjoy story time with Kristin’s daughter once again.
Cassie
They say that after a storm comes the calm. That couldn’t be truer for a dog named Cassie, who had been living in a wooded area along the Mississippi River for years prior to the recent flooding. She was well known by the casino workers in Tunica, Mississippi, who fed her, but could never get close enough to catch her. That all changed when the floods came and Cassie “the casino dog” became stranded on an island. A Crisis Relief Grant from UAN helped pay for Cassie’s veterinary care. Tunica Humane Society coordinated an amazing rescue effort and is fostering Cassie until her health improves. Watch a heartwarming video about Cassie's rescue.
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