A Tiny Warrior

Strong Paws Rescue welcomed Tilly into their care after finding her at the Cleveland Flea, where she was extremely sick and being kept in a crate alongside other ill puppies. It was immediately clear that she hadn’t received the basic care a vulnerable young puppy desperately needs.

At first, the rescue believed Tilly’s swollen belly and poor condition were the result of a severe parasite infestation. She was also diagnosed with a Grade 2 heart murmur, raising additional concerns about her health. But over the next several days, Tilly became increasingly lethargic and began refusing food.

Then her condition took a frightening turn.

Tilly became wobbly and weak and began vomiting—bringing up three piles of roundworms. Her medical foster immediately sprang into action, getting Tilly fluids and anti-nausea medication while emergency transportation was arranged.

At the emergency hospital, the rescue received devastating news: Tilly tested positive for parvovirus.

She was immediately given serum and placed on aggressive supportive care. Her initial emergency estimate is already $5,800, and that amount may continue to rise as doctors fight to stabilize her. The estimate also includes authorization for a blood transfusion should Tilly’s condition deteriorate and she need one.

Despite everything her tiny body has endured, Tilly is still fighting. In an encouraging moment, she began eating and even tried to play with members of the emergency veterinary team. Those little glimpses of puppyhood are exactly what her rescuers are fighting to give her more of.

Tilly’s story could have ended before she ever had the chance to truly begin her life. Instead, she now has an entire team fighting beside her—but they need help covering the enormous cost of saving her.

Please donate to Tilly’s Waggle campaign and help Strong Paws Rescue give this little girl every chance to survive parvo and finally experience the safe, healthy life every puppy deserves.