Louise is a five-year-old Shih Tzu in Columbus, OH, who needs $2,000 for urgent surgery.

Before Stop the Suffering animal rescue saved Louise; she lived an agonizing life.

"Louise spent her life in a puppy mill having litter after litter," Lynne A., with Stop the Suffering, tells Waggle. "Recently, when her litters were not good enough, she was taken to a vet to be euthanized. The vet, knowing Louise had much life and joy to give, contacted our rescue group."

Louise was very sick. All the years of breeding culminated in a severe and life-threatening case of pyometra, a terrible infection in her uterus, and needed emergency surgery. "It was so intense that specialty intervention and hospitalization was needed," Lynne says. "Louise was hospitalized at MedVet in Columbus, Ohio. A veterinary surgeon, Dr. Kevin Benjamino, performed a miracle handling her needs. She had a long, intense period of care but survived."

What has amazed everyone is despite all Louise has been through, she still has such a positive outlook on life. "Louise was entirely trusting, loving, and strong. Louise remained the ultimate trooper, loving the support from her foster family," Lynne adds.

The rescue is astonished. They've saved dogs from puppy mills before and never seen one adjust so well. "Louise is the most incredible little girl. Despite her horrible life, she came to her foster home, and unlike many dogs who lived similar lives, she showed trust, overcame fears, and eventually melted with much-needed attention. She loves to cuddle and loves warm, comfy spaces. She does great with her foster siblings. Her foster mom anticipated sadness and lots of fear, but Louise overcame that quickly," Lynne says.

The rescue spent about $7,000 on Louise's care. The group has now launched significant fundraising efforts to pay her bill. They are hoping this holiday season you will give to make sure Louise's new year is happy and bright!