Big Little Life Animal Rescue International
Campaigns
Matti
Matti Gave Her Whole Life to People Who Threw Her Away. Now It’s Her Turn to Be Saved
Norwood, MA • Big Little Life Animal Rescue International
Matti is an elderly Mastiff believed to be at least 12–13 years old. She was found wandering through a village, terrified and defensive. Animal control had to sedate her before she could be safely transported. It’s clear that Matti once belonged to someone. We believe she was used for breeding, producing litter after litter until she grew old and sick—then was discarded. When rescuers were finally able to examine her, they found a dog who had been severely neglected. Her coat was filthy and painfully matted, her claws severely overgrown, and she weighed just 84 pounds—about 22 pounds underweight. Matti was suffering from vomiting and diarrhea, infected ears, painful eye discharge, cystitis, urinary stones, and sand in her bladder. But treating her has been incredibly difficult because she is terrified of people. She throws herself against her kennel gate whenever someone approaches. She now receives calming medication and is being transported to the veterinary clinic almost daily for treatment and monitoring. She is also on a special gastrointestinal diet. It would be easy to call Matti aggressive. But we see a frightened, hurting senior dog who may have spent her entire life being used and neglected. We aren't asking her to trust people overnight. We're simply giving her the patience, medical care, and kindness she should have received long ago. Matti has already given people more than enough. Now it's finally her turn to receive. Please help Big Little Life Animal Rescue cover Matti's veterinary visits, testing, medications, calming medication, and prescription food. Your support can give this old girl the chance to experience comfort and compassion in what should be the safest chapter of her life. 💜🐾
Kusha
An Innocent Dog Paid the Price: Help Kusha Recover After Being Poisoned
Norwood, MA • Big Little Life Animal Rescue International
Kusha is a gentle neighborhood dog who has never had a family to call his own, but he has always had a community that knows and cares about him. Friendly, trusting, and especially fond of children, Kusha spent his days quietly surviving on the streets, relying on the kindness of those who stopped to feed him. Then, in a single heartbreaking moment, everything changed. A week ago, Kusha was found convulsing in the middle of town near a church. His back legs had already become paralyzed, but somehow, despite unimaginable pain, he dragged himself to the home of a man who occasionally fed him. By the following day, his front legs had stopped working as well. Unable to help financially, the man reached out to Big Little Life Animal Rescue International, desperate to save his friend. Kusha was rushed to the emergency veterinary hospital, where doctors discovered he was suffering from severe poisoning that had left him completely paralyzed. He was immediately hospitalized and began intensive treatment, including IV fluids, medications, an antidote commonly used in suspected tuberculosis medication poisoning, and around-the-clock supportive care. For nearly a week, there was little improvement, and every day felt uncertain. Then, at last, Kusha gave everyone a reason to hope. His body has finally begun responding to treatment. While he remains critically ill and has a long road ahead, that small sign of progress means he has not given up—and neither have we. As more information came to light, the heartbreaking truth emerged. The day before Kusha became ill, witnesses reported that a woman became angry after two homeless dogs barked at her while she was walking her own dog. The following day, she returned carrying food intended for those strays. Kusha had not been involved in the earlier encounter. He simply wandered over first and eagerly ate the food before the other dogs could reach it. It is believed the food had been laced with tablets used to treat tuberculosis—medication that can be fatal to dogs. Kusha was an innocent victim. Today, he continues to fight for his life. He still requires hospitalization, medications, constant monitoring, and will likely need extensive rehabilitation as doctors work to determine how much movement he can regain. His recovery will take time, and his veterinary expenses continue to grow. 💜 You can help give Kusha a second chance. Your tax-deductible donation will help cover his lifesaving medical care and rehabilitation so he can continue fighting toward recovery. Every gift, no matter the size, brings him one step closer to healing. If you're unable to donate, please consider sharing Kusha's fundraiser. Together, we can give this gentle soul the opportunity to recover from an act of unimaginable cruelty and experience the kindness he has always shown to others. Thank you for standing with Kusha and Big Little Life Animal Rescue International as they fight to save his life. 8/3/26 Update: KUSHA IS BEGINNING TO RESPOND Kusha has now spent a week at the clinic after the poisoning left him unable to use all four legs. He is finally holding his head up on his own and has started eating a little baby food. These may seem like small changes, but they are things he could not do before. Although these are encouraging signs, Kusha remains in serious condition and still cannot urinate on his own. The doctors placed a catheter and drained about 300 ml of urine. There was pus in it, which may mean he is also dealing with an infection. He has also been sent for X-rays so the doctors can better understand what else may be going on and how to continue his treatment. He still needs hospitalization, IV fluids, medications, vitamins, catheter care, more tests, and most likely rehabilitation. He is finally moving in the right direction. Please help us keep Kusha receiving the treatment he needs. Every day matters right now. 8/14/26 Update: KUSHA IS WALKING Kusha’s treatment has continued with IV fluids, medications, vitamins, and close monitoring. He has remained weak, and his back legs were still not responding normally. But finally, Kusha walked. His steps are unsteady and he is still very weak, but he got up and moved on his own legs. He also peed and pooped by himself, something he had not been able to do since the poisoning. This is real progress. Kusha still needs more IV treatment, medications, monitoring of his bladder and urinary infection, and time to rebuild strength and coordination in his legs. He is not fully recovered, but today he showed us just how far he has already come. I will never understand people who look at a homeless dog and decide his life does not matter. How does someone think it is okay to hurt a living being simply because no one is standing beside him. And then there are people who stop and do what they can. And every person who did not scroll past and helped keep his treatment going. THANK YOU! Watch the video. Kusha is walking. ❤️Please help us continue the treatment that got him this far.
Plushy
Abandoned, Burned, and Left to Suffer — Help Save Plushy
Norwood, MA • Big Little Life Animal Rescue International
Plushy did not choose this life. She is one of the stray dogs from our TNVR pack — a quiet, gentle girl who would always come to greet us. A little shy, but always soft, always grateful for food, kindness, and the small moments of safety we could give her. This past winter was brutal, but Plushy survived because we fed and cared for the dogs in the area. We sterilized nearly all of them to help stop the endless cycle of suffering these street dogs face every day. But we could not protect her from everything. A few days ago, Plushy stopped coming around. She disappeared without a trace. When we finally saw her again, she could barely stand. The injury covering her side was horrifying. Plushy has suffered a severe chemical burn, and the veterinarian believes it was caused by acid or a similar substance intentionally poured onto her body. We may never know exactly who did this or why. What we do know is that Plushy is in terrible pain and fighting to survive. As we learned more, the heartbreak deepened. Plushy was not born a stray. She once had an owner — a man struggling with alcoholism who abandoned her back in December. After being dumped, she joined the stray pack, trying to survive however she could. Despite everything humans have done to her, Plushy remains gentle. We rushed her to the clinic immediately. She now needs urgent surgery, intensive wound care, medications, and constant monitoring to give her a chance at recovery. Her burns are extensive, painful, and life-threatening. And when she is stable enough to leave the hospital, we cannot send her back to the streets where she was abandoned and harmed. There are no foster homes available in the area, so Plushy will need to stay at the clinic’s pet hotel while she heals. Her recovery will be long, complicated, and expensive — but abandoning her is simply not an option. There is so much cruelty in this world that we cannot control. The neglect. The abuse. The suffering these dogs are forced to endure just to stay alive. But this moment — this chance to save Plushy — is something we can change together. Please stand with us and help us fight for Plushy’s life. Your donation will help cover her emergency veterinary care, surgery, wound treatment, medications, hospitalization, and safe boarding while she recovers. Most importantly, it will show Plushy that not every human will fail her. After everything she has survived, she deserves the chance to finally know safety, healing, and love.
Vera
Rescued from the Roadside: Vera Needs Healing and a Second Chance
Norwood, MA • Big Little Life Animal Rescue International
She didn’t cry for help. She didn’t run. She just sat there… on the side of a busy road, as if she had nowhere left to go. A few days ago, calls began coming in about a cat who wouldn’t move from the roadside. When a volunteer from Big Little Life Animal Rescue stopped to check, what they found was heartbreaking. Vera didn’t resist. She didn’t try to escape. She simply allowed herself to be picked up — as if she already knew this was her only chance. But once she was safe, the reality of her condition began to unfold. Vera walks unsteadily, her body not fully responding the way it should. She is missing part of her tongue — something that didn’t happen overnight, something she has been living with for a long time. Despite this, her long fur, though dirty, wasn’t completely matted… a quiet sign that someone once cared for her. Now at the clinic, Vera is facing even more serious concerns. She is vomiting, and when she arrived, her gums showed a yellow tint — a possible sign of liver dysfunction or severe infection. She is currently undergoing bloodwork, diagnostics, and receiving supportive care just to stabilize her fragile condition. We don’t yet know everything she’s fighting. But we know she has been failed before. And there’s something else Vera needs — something just as critical to her future. Vera is not yet spayed. Unspayed cats face enormous risks. They can develop life-threatening infections like pyometra, reproductive cancers, and are often driven to roam — putting them directly in harm’s way. Being unspayed may be part of how Vera ended up alone, vulnerable, and suffering on the side of a road. Spaying isn’t just a routine procedure — it’s protection. It prevents suffering before it starts. It gives cats like Vera a real chance at a stable, safe life. Before she can be spayed, Vera must first be stabilized. Her body needs to be strong enough for surgery. But that procedure is an essential part of her recovery — and part of ensuring she never ends up in a situation like this again. Right now, Vera needs: \\\\- Emergency veterinary care and diagnostics - Treatment to address her current illness - Ongoing supportive care and monitoring - A spay surgery once she is stable The costs are already adding up, and as a small rescue, Big Little Life Animal Rescue cannot do this alone. Vera is gentle. She allows love. She hasn’t given up on people — even after everything. We can’t rewrite her past. But we can change her future. Your donation today will not only help save Vera’s life — it will also be part of something bigger: preventing suffering through spay and neuter, and giving vulnerable animals the protection they deserve. Because no cat should suffer simply because they weren’t given that chance. Please donate to help Vera heal, receive her spay surgery, and finally know what it means to be safe. 5/4/26 Update Vera is not doing well. Despite supportive care, she continues to vomit bile, eat very little, and her mucous membranes still have a yellow tint — a sign that her body is under serious stress. What we first thought might be mostly due to her damaged mouth is now proving to be far more complicated. Her bloodwork shows concerning problems with her liver and gallbladder, and an ultrasound revealed free fluid in her abdomen. This has raised the frightening possibility of FIP (feline infectious peritonitis) — a dangerous disease that can quickly become fatal without intensive treatment. But at this time, Vera’s results do not give us a clear diagnosis, leaving us in a very difficult position: we know she is very sick, but we still need more testing to understand exactly what is happening. Vera now urgently needs repeat bloodwork, likely another ultrasound, continued supportive care, nausea treatment, and close daily monitoring. On top of her internal illness, Vera struggles every day because part of her tongue is missing. Eating is difficult, drooling is constant, and she cannot properly groom herself without assistance. She has likely been suffering silently for a long time. We are committed to getting Vera the answers and treatment she needs, but the veterinary costs continue to rise with every new diagnostic and every day of care. Please continue to help us fight for Vera. She is gentle, trusting, and depending on us not to give up on her now. 5/18/26 Update Because of your compassion and support, Vera’s story has taken a hopeful turn. When Vera was first found sitting helplessly beside a busy road, weak, jaundiced, vomiting, and unable to properly care for herself, we feared the worst. As her condition worsened and fluid was discovered in her abdomen, there was a very real concern that Vera could be suffering from FIP — a devastating diagnosis that would have meant an incredibly difficult and uncertain road ahead. Thankfully, after extensive monitoring, multiple rounds of bloodwork, biochemistry testing, ultrasounds, and supportive treatment, Vera’s doctors were able to rule out FIP. The relief we felt was enormous. Slowly, Vera began responding to treatment. Her vomiting has stopped, and while she is still healing, she is finally showing signs of strength again. Every small improvement feels huge for this gentle girl who has already endured so much. Life is still not easy for Vera. Because part of her tongue is missing, even basic daily tasks remain difficult. She eats slowly and carefully, struggling to grab food properly, and grooming herself is nearly impossible without help. Her little beard is often wet with drool, a constant reminder of the challenges she continues to face. But despite it all, Vera remains incredibly sweet, trusting, and gentle with the people caring for her. Once she is fully stable and strong enough, Vera will still need to be spayed — an important step toward protecting her long-term health and ensuring she never has to endure the dangers that vulnerable unspayed cats face on the streets. To everyone who donated, shared her story, and cared about this fragile little cat: thank you. Your support gave Vera access to lifesaving diagnostics, treatment, monitoring, and ongoing care when she needed it most. Because of you, she was given the chance to keep fighting. Vera still has healing ahead of her, but today she is safe, cared for, and no longer suffering alone on the side of the road. And that is because compassionate people chose to help.
Tru
Tru Was Found Collapsed With a Trap on His Leg — Help Save His Paw
Norwood, MA • Big Little Life Animal Rescue International
Tru was a peaceful stray dog who kept to himself. Just days before his rescue, people in the neighborhood had seen him quietly basking in a rare patch of winter sunshine. He wasn’t bothering anyone. He simply enjoyed the warmth and moved gently through the area. Then, in an instant, everything changed. Someone had set leg-hold traps in a residential neighborhood — not deep in the woods, but in a place where families walk their dogs and children play. Tru got caught. For several days, witnesses saw him dragging the heavy metal trap attached to his paw. Despite the pain, he kept walking, trying to survive. He never acted aggressively. He didn’t lash out. He simply carried the cruelty of that trap with him. Eventually, Tru collapsed in an empty lot and could no longer get up. That’s when Big Little Life Rescue stepped in and rushed him to the emergency clinic. His leg was severely swollen with extensive tissue damage. Veterinarians immediately began pain management, antibiotics, wound care, and diagnostic testing to assess circulation and determine whether the leg could be saved. Sadly, despite their best efforts, the damage was too severe. The necrosis continued to spread. The damaged tissue kept dying, and the affected area became more extensive. Ultimately, the doctors made the difficult decision that the leg could not be saved, and Tru will now need amputation surgery to stop the progression and give him the chance to live without constant pain. Through it all, Tru has remained quiet, gentle, and incredibly patient with the veterinary team caring for him. He doesn’t growl or resist. He simply looks exhausted — as if he’s been fighting for survival for far too long. We don’t know exactly how long he suffered with that trap on his leg. But we do know one thing: he is not alone anymore. Tru now has a team fighting for him — but his emergency medical care, hospitalization, diagnostics, and now amputation surgery have created significant veterinary expenses. Your donation will help cover: • Emergency veterinary care and hospitalization • Pain management and medications • Diagnostic testing and wound treatment • Life-saving amputation surgery • Post-operative care and recovery Three-legged dogs go on to live full, happy lives, and we are determined to make sure Tru gets that chance. Tru survived days dragging a trap through a neighborhood where no animal should have faced that danger. Now he needs us. Please donate to help Tru receive the surgery and care he needs to finally live without pain. 3/24/26 Update Tru’s amputation surgery is now behind him. The injured leg could not be saved, but he came through anesthesia well and his condition remains stable. Even more encouraging, his appetite is good, and he’s eating on his own. There have been no gastrointestinal concerns, and the surgical site looks clean and dry with no discharge — all positive signs in these critical early days of recovery. Bloodwork has been completed, and the veterinary team continues to monitor him closely. Every update feels like a small victory for a dog who, not long ago, was collapsing alone after days of dragging a heavy metal trap. It’s hard not to think about what he endured — the pain, the exhaustion, the confusion. Yet despite everything, Tru remains incredibly gentle. He’s still timid and unsure, but he doesn’t resist care. He watches quietly, learning little by little that hands now bring comfort instead of harm. His resilience is remarkable. Three-legged dogs absolutely can — and do — go on to live full, happy lives. But the next chapter won’t be easy. Tru will soon be discharged from the clinic and moved to the shelter to continue healing. For a newly amputated dog, that environment can be challenging: the noise, the stress, the limited space, and the need to adjust to moving on three legs while still recovering. He will need continued monitoring, medications, follow-up care, and extra support as he regains strength and confidence. The trap that took Tru’s leg also took away the simple, quiet life he once knew. Now he is learning a completely new way to exist — and he shouldn’t have to do it alone. We are so grateful to everyone who has stood with Tru. If you’re able, please consider continuing to support his recovery. Your donations will help cover his ongoing medical care, medications, follow-up visits, and the support he needs as he adjusts to life on three legs. Tru has already endured more than any dog should. Now, with your help, he can finally learn what safety and kindness feel like. Please donate and share to help Tru keep moving forward. 3/29/26 Update The clinic reported that Tru’s condition is stable. His appetite is good, there are no signs of gastrointestinal issues, and the surgical site is clean and dry with no discharge. We had to move him from the clinic to the shelter, as we simply cannot afford to continue hospitalization. He is now resting in a kennel in a warm room. He is still very scared. When we came in to take photos, he didn’t even turn his head. He just stayed lying on his side, his amputated leg resting on top. He has been discharged with a full set of instructions, and we are continuing all his care at the shelter. Along with antibiotics, he is also on pain medication to keep him comfortable during recovery. There is also something we need to have checked by a doctor — one of his eyes looks abnormal, possibly an eyelid issue, but we are not yet sure and it will need a proper examination. For now, he is safe, warm, and monitored. But emotionally, he is still very shut down. Everything is new. Everything is overwhelming. We keep reminding ourselves how far he has already come — from dragging a trap for days, to surviving surgery, to finally resting without that weight on him. He is not healed yet. But he is no longer suffering in silence on an empty lot. Thank you for standing with Tru. 🐾 4/7/26 Update: Tru is healing and will be visiting his doctor for stitch removal soon 🐾 In just two days, Tru will have his stitches removed. Physically, he is doing okay. He is eating, his body is healing. But emotionally… he is still holding onto everything he went through. He gets nervous. You can see it in the way he tenses when someone approaches. He doesn’t lash out, doesn’t show aggression — he just quietly braces himself, as if he still remembers how much pain he was in not so long ago. And before all of this… life on the streets was never easy for him either. He does recognize the staff now. He allows treatments, doesn’t resist. Little by little, he is learning that hands can help, not hurt. His treatment is almost finished. His incision is still being carefully cleaned and monitored. But right now, his world is very small. He stays in his kennel because there is nowhere safe for him to go yet. In the same room, there are two large dogs — Molniya and a male named Malysh. While Molniya seems tolerant, Malysh can be reactive. He used to guard territory, and there is a real risk of conflict. For Tru, that kind of stress — or worse, an injury — could set him back significantly. He is still adjusting to life on three legs. He is still learning how to move, how to balance, how to exist in a body that suddenly changed.He needs time. And safety. After everything he survived, the last thing he needs is another setback. THank you so much for helping Tru to keep going and get the care he needs to find his footing again. 🐾. He has already endured so much — pain, fear, and a life that never gave him a break. Now he has a chance.
Kadi
Kadi Was Freed from a Puppy Mill—But Her Struggle Isn’t Over
Norwood, MA • Big Little Life Animal Rescue International
Sweet little Kadi has been through more in her short life than most of us could imagine. Born into the horrors of a South Korean puppy mill, she survived unthinkable conditions. She made the long journey to safety, finally arriving in the loving care of Big Little Life Animal Rescue. She was finally safe. She was learning what it felt like to be loved, to play, to just be a dog. But just as her new life was beginning, everything changed. Out of nowhere, Kadi fell critically ill. First came the bloody diarrhea, then the vomiting. Big Little Life rushed her to the emergency hospital, where doctors confirmed their fears—Kadi might not have survived another night without care. Kadi is severely dehydrated, her albumin levels are dangerously low, and an ultrasound shows inflammation in her small intestine. Now, Kadi is hospitalized, hooked up to IV fluids and receiving albumin, fighting for her life. She may require a blood transfusion depending on how her condition progresses. Big Little Life is doing everything they can, but her life-saving treatment is estimated to cost $6,000—far beyond what the rescue can afford. Kadi has fought so hard for her chance at life—please help us make sure she gets it.
Asya
From Cruelty to Compassion: Join Asya’s Healing Journey
Norwood, MA • Big Little Life Animal Rescue International
At just six months old, Asya has already faced unimaginable cruelty. A local woman, hearing her cries, followed the sound and discovered a man brutally beating Asya. When the man saw he was being watched, he fled, leaving Asya behind. The Good Samaritan quickly rushed her to a nearby veterinary clinic. However, in rural Russia, resources are scarce, and the clinic could only provide limited care. That’s when Big Little Life Animal Rescue International stepped in. They transferred Asya to a clinic with the resources to treat her severe injuries. She arrived unconscious, with her head and eyes swollen and bruised. X-rays revealed a bullet lodged in her front leg, adding to her already extensive trauma. Asya was immediately placed in intensive care. After two agonizing days, Asya opened her eyes. Though disoriented, she was able to be syringe-fed — a small but significant victory that shows her fighting spirit. Asya is a fighter, and Big Little Life is committed to giving her every chance to heal and recover. With your help, we can provide the care she needs to overcome this brutal past and live a life filled with love and safety.
Aspen
A Friend’s Loyalty, a Lifeline for Aspen
Norwood, MA • Big Little Life Animal Rescue International
Big Little Life Animal Rescue found Aspen laying in the middle of the road. She had been struck by a car, her body broken, her cries for help unheard by the crowd around her. But Aspen wasn’t truly alone. Reks, a brave and loyal dog, was by her side. Despite his own injuries—his ear torn, his leg limping—Reks stayed with Aspen, never leaving her, protecting her in her moment of greatest need. Big Little Life rushed Aspen to the vet where they received bad news. Aspen’s hip is broken. She needs immediate surgery—femoral head ostectomy (FHO)—to have any chance of walking without pain. The cost of the surgery alone is around $1,000, but it’s her only option to heal and live a life free of suffering. Right now, both Aspen and Reks are safe at the shelter. Aspen is being cared for and is receiving pain management injections to reduce swelling. As of now, Aspen cannot stand. She drags herself around, even making the effort to go outside when needed. She’s incredibly strong, but she needs rest, care, and the surgery to give her a shot at walking again. Thankfully, Reks was lucky. His injuries—bruised leg and torn ear—are minor, and after some treatment, he’s on the road to recovery. But it’s Aspen who needs us now. Together, we can give Aspen a second chance at life. Let’s show Aspen and Reks that they are not alone. Update 2/11/25: Aspen has made it to Moscow, and is about to go into surgery. The doctor examined her and found that she either has a uterine injury or is in heat. Depending on what they find, she may be spayed during the operation. Then came another call from the surgeon. The fracture isn’t just a simple break—it’s a comminuted fracture, which means the bone is broken into multiple pieces. The surgery will be longer and more complicated than we had expect and the initial estimate didn’t fully reflect the extent of her injuries. She’ll need at least a few days in the clinic to recover before moving to medical boarding. This is so much more than we expected, but Aspen has no choice—she needs this and we will do whatever she needs to heal. Update 2/13/25: Aspen’s surgery went well, and she came out of anesthesia safely. The procedure lasted four hours due to the severity of her fractures. A long screw was placed in her pelvis, and in about 1.5 months—possibly sooner, depending on her progress—it will need to be removed. Her next check-up in two weeks will help determine the timing. Aspen is eating and drinking, but she remains in a lot of pain. The clinic wants to keep her at least until Friday. She is on constant pain relief and has a catheter because standing up and urinating on her own is too painful right now. There’s also a big concern about her neurological condition. She folds one of the hind legs under and with her toes curled. It’s too early to say what this means for her long-term recovery, so we’ll have to monitor her closely and see how things develop. She has a tough climb ahead, but she’s getting the best care possible. If you’d like to help her through this recovery, we would be beyond grateful. Every bit of support makes a difference. Update 2/14/25: Aspen is out of ICU! She no longer needs intensive care, so today she was discharged from the hospital and moved to medical boarding. She spent a day in the therapy unit after surgery, and now her condition is stable. Her bloodwork looks mostly good, though her white blood cell count is slightly elevated—nothing unexpected after such a major procedure. She was sent with a treatment plan and medications, and we’ll be back for a follow-up with the surgeon and another X-ray at end of February. Now begins the long part—recovery. After surgeries like this, dogs need time for the bone to heal and the body to adjust. At first, movement is very limited to avoid putting stress on the repaired area. Too much too soon, and the screws can shift—that’s the worst-case scenario. So, for now, she’ll be resting a lot, with careful pain management and support. Once we get the all-clear from the surgeon, we can slowly start helping her build strength again. She’s been through a lot, but she's safe, she’s cared for, and we are so relieved to have her in a place where she can heal properly. Update 2/17/25: Aspen is healing, and she’s making sure we all know she has opinions about it. She’s being quite capricious—refusing oral medications, so we have to give injections instead, which she loudly protests and demands being fed canned food by hand. She drinks a lot and she’s moving around more confidently—though that one paw is still not quite right. Her belly, which had sagged from the fracture, is starting to tighten up again. The wound is draining, which is actually a good thing. Slowly but surely, she’s moving forward. We’ll need to see a neurologist later to understand what’s going on with her paw, but for now, we’re focused on her recovery. Update 2/25/25: Aspen is making steady progress! We’ve been draining less and less fluid each day, and the swelling is going down. Her freshly shaved back is already sprouting little hairs—she’s clearly determined to grow her fluff back. She’s walking much more confidently, though that one paw still gets a bit tangled now and then. Big milestone—no more accidents! She’s going out over eight times a day, but until yesterday, she still had little mishaps. Yesterday was her first completely dry day, and we’re celebrating this victory! Today, we went for a follow-up X-ray, and the doctor was happy with how everything is healing. Aspen, however, took the car ride as an opportunity to sneakily lick her stitches—so she’s still on probation when it comes to making good choices. Aspen is not just brave—she’s the sweetest soul. She adores people, and she’s just as lovely with other dogs—no drama, just warmth and easy companionship. She's not a fan of the vet though - you should see how quickly she "ran" to the car when we were done, bad leg and all! For a dog who's still healing, she sure knows how to make a quick exit when freedom calls. Rehabilitation is just around the corner, and thanks to you, she’ll get every chance to fully heal. Every step she takes, every moment of comfort she feels, is because of the love and generosity surrounding her. We’re beyond grateful for your support—Aspen wouldn’t be here without you. Update 3/10/25: Aspen is getting stronger every day! She’s walking so much better now, and her fur is starting to grow back where she was shaved for surgery—just a little fluff, but it’s a start! She has a follow-up surgery appointment scheduled for the 25th to remove some of the bone-supporting pins. They’ve done their job, but now they’re just getting in her way. Once they’re out, she should move even more easily! This procedure won’t be nearly as complicated as the first one, and she’s feeling great, which is amazing!
Poet
Healing Poet: Emergency Surgery and Hospitalization for a Brave Soul in Russia
Norwood, MA • Big Little Life Animal Rescue International
On a cold Russian night, a tiny soul named Poet was left to fight for his life.Thrown from a moving car, Poet was struck by another vehicle shortly after. The impact was so intense, he was knocked to the roadside, unable to move. But the driver who hit him didn’t just drive away. They stopped, picked him up, and rushed him to the clinic, saving his life. Poet’s injuries are serious. He was bleeding internally, and emergency surgery that night saved his life. They had to remove his spleen. Now he’s on oxygen therapy because his lungs are damaged, and his pelvis is broken. Due to his pelvic injuries and pain, Poet is unable to stand and spends all his time lying down. But pelvic surgery will have to wait until he’s strong enough to handle it. His bloodwork shows just how much his body has been through. The levels of damage to his liver are dangerously high and his is anemic. Right now, every part of him is fighting to stay alive. But Poet is showing everyone how strong he is: he is a survivor and a fighter. Big Little Life is doing everything in their power to help him heal, but the medical bills are mounting quickly. They are committed to helping him get through this, but need your help. With your support, Poet has the chance to heal and live the life he deserves. Update 2/3/25: Poet finally had his first surgery to repair his broken pelvis! After recovering from his initial surgery to remove the spleen, he was finally strong enough for this critical step. Doctors operated on one side of his pelvis, with the other side scheduled for surgery in three days. Due to his lung trauma, they had to modify his anesthesia to ensure it didn’t put too much strain on his breathing. Doing the surgeries separately also reduces the risks and gives his body time to handle the recovery in stages. Metal plates were installed to stabilize his pelvis, and now, keeping him still is the next big challenge. Jack Russells aren’t exactly known for staying put, but for now, his movements must be restricted to give him the best chance at healing. Update 2/9/25: Poet has made it through his second pelvis surgery! Last week, the vets repaired one side of his pelvis, and few days ago, they finally operated on the other. Just like before, they used modified anesthesia to protect his lungs and carefully placed more metal plates to stabilize his bones. It was another big surgery, but Poet pulled through. Now comes the hardest part—healing. His movements have to stay restricted, which is no small challenge for an active Jack Russell, but it’s the only way to give him the best chance at recovery. The next days and weeks will be all about rest, pain management, and giving his little body the time it needs to heal. We’re so relieved this major step is behind him, but he still has a long way to go. His surgeries have been life-saving, but they’ve also been expensive. If you can, please help us cover the costs of his care. Every little bit means the world. Update 3/10/25: Poet is healing well after his surgeries! His recovery is on track, and while he still needs plenty of rest, he’s starting to show just how much of a Jack Russell he really is. He’s getting bored in his kennel and has already made a few attempts to break out—clearly, he has no idea he’s supposed to be taking it easy! But for now, he’s still in quarantine, where his movements can be managed to make sure his pelvis heals properly.
Fifi
Fifi's Fight: Support Her Recovery from Rat Poison and Neglect
Norwood, MA • Big Little Life Animal Rescue International
Big Little Life received an urgent call about a tiny 3-month-old puppy, left to die alone in the cold. When they found her, she was curled up in frozen dirt, barely moving, her little body fighting to breathe. She was weak, dehydrated, and in a state of complete distress. Her tiny frame was on the brink of collapse, and they feared they might be too late. At the shelter, Big Little Life tried to rehydrate her, but she couldn’t keep anything down. She was vomiting violently, and her body was shutting down. It was a race against time, and they knew that leaving her overnight would be a death sentence so they rushed her to the emergency clinic. There, doctors delivered the devastating news. Tests suggested she had ingested rat poison, causing massive damage to her kidneys. The prognosis was grim: severe, likely permanent kidney damage. The doctors asked a heartbreaking question—would they fight for her life, or let her go peacefully? Big Little Life made the decision to fight for Fifi. During all of this, Big Little Life learned more about her past—and it’s heartbreaking. Fifi was a breeder dog who was sold to a family at a fraction of the price because she wasn’t considered a “perfect” Chinese Crested. Instead of giving her the care and love she deserved, they kept her outside, where she had to scavenge for food—food that led her to the rat poison that nearly took her life. When Fifi got sick, this family didn't come forward with the truth. They pretended that Fifi was a stray they'd “found” and only alerted Big Little Life when it was almost too late. By the time rescuers arrived, the poison had already been absorbed into her bloodstream, damaging her kidneys and liver. No puppy should endure what she has, but Fifi is still here—still fighting, still full of hope. Your donation can make all the difference in her recovery. It will help cover her urgent medical bills, support her ongoing treatment, and ensure she receives the care she needs. Update 12/17/24: Little Fifi left the hospital. She has been stabilized and discharged to the shelter's quarantine. Unfortunately, her kidneys suffered permanent damage, so she’ll need a special diet and regular monitoring for the rest of her life. Her liver took a hit too, and her stomach lining was inflamed, all from ingesting the poison. Her diagnoses—kidney disease, liver inflammation, and gastritis—sound serious because they are. But this little girl is holding on and showing her cute character. It’s hard to believe, but we were just one night away from losing her forever.
Yeryoma
The Heart of a Survivor: Yeryoma's Fight Against the Russian Cold and the Odds
Norwood, MA • Big Little Life Animal Rescue International
Yeryoma was found at 1 a.m. on a cold, snowy night. He staggered onto a local highway near a small village in Russia looking for help. He was barely holding himself upright, swaying and trembling from exhaustion and pain. Cars honked and swerved to avoid him, but Yeryoma stood his ground. He looked like a haunting silhouette in the storm—determined, but on the verge of collapse. A Big Little Life volunteer noticed him wobbling from the distance - his legs about to give out. Yeryoma limped over as if he knew this stranger was his only chance. He tried to climb in but was too weak. When he was gently lifted onto the back seat, he immediately fell into a deep sleep. Yeryoma was so exhausted that even the pain of his broken leg didn’t seem to matter. At the veterinary clinic, it was discovered that Yeryoma had an old, open fracture —infected and untreated - that had somehow not yet taken his life. The vet called it a miracle that he hadn’t succumbed to infection or predators out in the fields where he’d wandered for days. Yeryoma also had deep wounds on his body and tested positive for piroplasmosis. Yet, through all of this, Yeryoma was calm, sweet, and trusting. He is being treated for piroplasmosis, and his wounds have been cleaned and bandaged. He still faces surgery to repair his fractured leg. Without it, he’ll never walk without pain again. Yeryoma has an extremely difficult road ahead. He has much to overcome, but with your help, he can receive the care he desperately needs. Please donate to help Yeryoma get his second chance!
Savannah
From Highway Tragedy to Hope: Help Savannah in Russia Heal
Norwood, MA • Big Little Life Animal Rescue International
It’s impossible to imagine the kind of suffering Savannah has endured. Her life, which led to her being left in the middle of a busy highway, lying there for over 24 hours, is a tragic reflection of the cruelty and neglect that no living being should ever experience. Cars sped past her, some even passing over her lifeless body, yet she fought to survive. A few days ago, Savannah underwent emergency surgery and a leg amputation to save her life. Thanks to the amazing team working tirelessly to care for her, Savannah is making small but crucial improvements. She is a little more active, eating again, and most importantly, the vomiting that plagued her has stopped. But there’s still so much more to be done. There’s a serious concern with her second leg—it's been badly damaged, both the bone and the joint. The bone is thin and worn down, and the joint is dislocated. While there is a chance that surgery could stabilize the joint, even with a skilled procedure, Savannah may never fully regain the use of this leg. The road ahead will be difficult, and rehabilitation will be a challenging process. But we can’t do it alone. Savannah needs your help to keep fighting. Every day is a battle for her—against pain, fear, and the aftermath of what she’s been through. Donate today and be a part of Savannah’s incredible journey toward recovery. 12/20/24: Savannah’s repaired front leg is healing so slowly it’s hard not to worry. She can’t use it at all yet. The surgeon says the bones are starting to fuse, but the damage caused by all that time without help—dirt in the wound and displaced bones— made everything so much harder. And then there are the other wounds—the ones on her face and shoulder. They’re deep, raw, and slow to close. The metal rod stabilizing her leg is large and positioned at a joint, which isn’t a comfortable spot, but without it, the bones wouldn’t stand a chance of healing. We have to wait three more weeks to see if progress continues, and we’re holding our breath until then. Savannah has an incredible heart which makes it even more heartbreaking seeing her struggles. Even now, when everything must hurt so much, she allows the treatments without protest and even manages to lick people's faces while they clean her wounds. Right now, all that matters is saving her leg and giving her a chance to heal. It’s going to take time, and it’s going to take help, but she’s worth every second and every ounce of effort. Thank you for caring about her.
Boss
Help Boss the Cane Corso in Russia: From Abandoned to Adored – Emergency Care Funding Needed!
Norwood, MA • Big Little Life Animal Rescue International
Boss’s life was pure torment. He spent years chained, starving, and suffering in silence. No one would come to his aid, so Boss took his fate into his own hands. Against all odds and using everything he had, Boss managed to crawl to a neighbor's doorstep, desperate to find someone who would help. This was all his body could handle; Boss collapsed, too weak to stand or even raise his head. The neighbors did their best to aid Boss, but it wasn't enough. Boss's body was shutting down from severe starvation and long-term abuse. Fearing he wouldn't make it another day, they called animal rescue organizations. Big Little Life couldn't ignore the plea for help. They arrived and were shocked to see the deplorable condition Boss was in; he was even missing an eye from suspected abuse. Fearful he wouldn't survive without immediate intervention, they rushed him to the veterinary clinic. Boss's condition was grave; due to years of starvation, his intestines had folded in on themselves, his pancreas was inflamed, and his mouth was full of sores. He's struggling to keep food down, he hasn't had a bowel movement, and he still is too weak to stand. Big Little Life has seen terrible cases of animal neglect but this one shook them. It's incredible that despite everything he has been through, Boss still fights for life. Please consider donating to help Boss continue his battle for survival. Update 10/1/24: Boss continues to face serious challenges. There’s now a suspicion that he has megaesophagus, meaning the tube that carries food to his stomach is too enlarged and weak, making it hard for him to swallow properly. He may also have reflux, where food or acid comes back up. His breathing becomes labored and he feels nauseous after eating. Doctors are continuing his therapy and monitoring him closely. Tomorrow, they’ll do an X-ray with contrast to get a clearer picture of what’s going on and adjust his treatment accordingly. Update 10/4/24: Boss continues to be hospitalized, and while his condition remains serious, there's been a bit of progress. His appetite is good, and there’s finally been a little stool, though his body remains dangerously fragile. He’s still too weak to stand and can only lie on his side. But now, for the first time in years, Boss has been able to rest. He sleeps peacefully, finally getting the sleep he was never allowed. However, Boss's misfortune continues. He’s tested positive for heartworm, a dangerous parasite that has infected his heart. It will take months of intensive care and costly medications to give him a chance at survival. His fragile state complicates everything. Right now, the veterinary clinic is focusing on stabilizing him as his digestive system is still in disarray and his body is exhausted. Update 10/17/24: It’s been nearly twenty days since Boss’s rescue. Twenty days ago, his life was hanging by a thread—his body ravaged by years of neglect, barely able to lift his head. He was starving, extremely weak, and had no muscle left. He was missing an eye and couldn’t even hold down his food, but this boy is a fighter. Today, for the first time, Boss managed to stand for a few minutes! Though his legs are still weak and his body fragile, this is an incredible step forward. His appetite remains strong, and he's being fed in small portions of special gastro food throughout the day to help build his strength back up. Unfortunately, despite everything he’s already suffered through, Boss has a battle with heartworms ahead. He's slowly regaining his strength and every day is a step in the right direction, but Boss still needs your love and support to keep going. Update 11/3/24: Boss is standing!!! Every little step is a victory, and every moment of strength he shows feels like a miracle. After so many years of neglect, he’s finally beginning to feel what it’s like to be cared for. Boss has a long road ahead. A pressure sore developed, and the necrotic tissue had to be removed, but he’s showing us that he’s stronger than the scars life left on him. There’s a hint of that carefree spirit that was taken from him too soon. He’s still not strong, but there’s a little spark of joy that’s trying to come back, and that alone is worth celebrating. He’s gradually putting on weight, and life is slowly returning to him. And looming ahead is the heartworm treatment—a long, grueling, and costly process, but one he needs to fully recover. His treatment is ongoing, and the costs are mounting. Boss still needs support to cover his clinic expenses, so he can continue on this path to recovery. Update 11/19/24: Boss continues to amaze us. Still far from his ideal weight, he’s walking more steadily now, and that spark of mischief in his eye is growing brighter every day. Watching him explore his world again—taking careful steps, wagging his tail, and even getting into a little bit of trouble—is nothing short of miraculous. It’s hard to believe that just weeks ago, he couldn’t even lift his head. But as with every recovery journey, there are hurdles. When Boss arrived, his skin was in terrible shape—bald patches everywhere. We assumed his hair loss was due to malnutrition or pressure sores from lying for so long. Our focus was on saving his life—stabilizing him, feeding him, and treating his most urgent conditions and we were hoping his coat would grow back as his health improved. Unfortunately, it didn’t. After tests, we learned the culprit: canine herpesvirus. It’s a viral condition that can affect his skin and overall health, especially in dogs with weakened immune systems like Boss. While it’s treatable, it’s another battle for his already fragile body. It’s going to take time, medication, and a lot of care to help him overcome this. Boss has come so far, from fighting for his life to walking and playing again. But he still needs us—now more than ever. Please keep him in your thoughts and consider supporting his treatment so we can help him overcome this next challenge.
Shiloh
Shiloh is a 6 year old Mix-Breed in Russia who needs $2,000 for Emergency Wound Surgery and Hospitalization.
Norwood, MA • Big Little Life Animal Rescue International
Shiloh was abandoned at an airport by her owners, left behind when something went wrong. They flew away, and the poor dog, confused and heartbroken, ran towards other people for help—because she was trusting and used to being cared for. However, the people she found weren't kind; they were cruel. Instead of helping her or even just moving her off the runway, where animals are prohibited for safety reasons, they attacked her with a sharp hoe. The blade hit her neck, leaving a deep wound on the side, narrowly missing her arteries and spine. In pain, she crawled under parked cars near the entrance gate, where she hid for three days, slowly growing weaker. She was dying as people walked past. On the fourth day, a dispatcher who returned from vacation noticed her and called us. The wound is horrifying; miraculously, her vital neck arteries weren’t damaged and she hadn’t bled out. She was taken into surgery right away, where the doctors cleaned the necrotic tissue, stitched her up, and inserted drainage tubes. Further examinations ruled out internal injuries and viral infections. This sweet, trusting dog survived unimaginable cruelty, but her battle isn’t over. Please help us give her a second chance at life. Your donations will cover her surgery, medical care, and her stay at the clinic. Every little bit helps to heal her!
Ariadne
Ariadne is a 7 year old Mix-Breed in Russia, who needs $1,500 for Emergency Hospitalization and Surgery.
Norwood, MA • Big Little Life Animal Rescue International
Big Little Life The limping Ariadne was spotted on a desolate highway on an extremely hot day. Her appearance was tragic: her head was covered in bloody wounds, and she seemed barely able to stand. What was initially thought to be a car accident was revealed to be the result of human cruelty. Ariadne’s ears had been brutally cut off. She had been in the heat for so long that flies had laid eggs in her wounds, and maggots had begun to eat away at her flesh. She also suffered from severe swelling on one side of her head and showed signs of extreme exhaustion and dehydration after spending days under the sun. The degree of her malnutrition and anemia was extremely alarming. Despite her current suffering, it’s clear that Ariadne was once a majestic pup, showing signs of being well cared for. Her strong bones and overall build suggest she was once a beloved companion. Tragically, it seems that she ended up in the hands of individuals who abused her. At the clinic, Ariadne's wounds were cleaned of parasites, and she was given IV fluids to stabilize her condition. She needed a surgery, however, she first had to regain her strength, as she was too weak for anesthesia. After about 2 weeks, she gained enough weight for surgery, but she still has a long way to go. Please help Ariadne get the care she desperately needs!
Otto
Otto is a 10 year old Mix-Breed Russia, who needs $2,000 for hospitalization for wound and infection treatment.
Norwood, MA • Big Little Life Animal Rescue International
* Big Little Life Animal Rescue * Poor Otto is covered in infected wounds from head to toe. Otto’s life has not always been a living nightmare. Born to a stray mama, who was poisoned along with his littermates, Otto was lucky to survive and to be picked up by a kind elderly gentleman, who gave him a home. Otto became his best friend and confidant and never left his side. Until a day the man died. Otto was found by his owner’s body laying next to him, refusing to leave. He was abused by the neighbors, eventually they threatened him and chased him away from his home. No one wanted an old dog. He lost everything, and was left alone with overwhelming grief and fear. Otto was attacked by a pack of stray dogs when he was trying to get some scraps from the dumpster, he had trouble finding safety and food, and soon developed a severe skin infection that kept getting worse. Otto urgently needs medical attention. His wounds need to be cleaned and treated, he needs to be checked for internal injuries, and he needs to receive stitches and antibiotics. This poor soul needs our help. Maybe together we can still give him a chance. Please donate!
Belyash
Belyash is a 5 year old Mix-Breed in Russia who needs $2,000 for Wound Surgery and Fracture Stabilization.
Norwood, MA • Big Little Life Animal Rescue International
Big Little Life Animal Rescue was the last lifeline Belyash had! The dog was discovered along a road, gravely injured in a hit-and-run crash. "An elderly man moved him to safety near an industrial plant and called a nearby veterinary clinic, only to be turned down," Irina V., with the rescue, tells Waggle. For weeks, Belyash lay immobile in his urine and feces, crying in agony from untreated injuries as if his life meant nothing. "Workers fed him occasionally, but his suffering continued until we received a distress call from one of the employee's wives," Irina says. The group picked up Belyash and rushed him to a veterinary clinic. "He was diagnosed with multiple fractures in his pelvic area and severe infections causing sepsis," Irina says. "His wounds, worsened by neglect, required immediate surgery to stabilize his condition." Belyash needs ongoing observation and is in critical condition. "We are determined to provide him all the care he requires, and your help makes it possible," Irina says. Please give to help Belyash during his healing journey. Your support is vital for his recovery! Update: Belyash has made it through surgery. It was a long, complicated procedure, which involved reconstructing his pelvis. It was performed by a local specialist, who spent hours working on Belyash in the operating room. The surgeon is hopeful that, with appropriate rehabilitation, he will eventually be able to walk again. Belyash is a sweet, loving boy who has never known love or care. Despite his suffering and pain, he seems to understand that we are trying to help him. His eyes are full of gratitude and love, and he gives sweet kisses to the volunteer who cares for him. Belyash is currently in the critical stages of rehabilitation, and the first results are already visible. His digestion is starting to get back to normal, showing that his body processes are restarting. Please stand with us and help us pay for his surgery and rehab. This boy deserves a chance.
Valerik
Valerik is a 3 year old Mix-Breed in Russia who needs $2,000 for Spinal Stabilization, Hospitalization, and Rehab.
Norwood, MA • Big Little Life Animal Rescue International
* Big Little Life Animal Rescue International * What humans have done to Valerik is impossible to comprehend. They kept this small boy hostage and abused him every day. Then, they threw him out by someone’s house, leaving him starved, dehydrated, scared, covered in wounds, bruises and scars, and with a broken spine. We found him completely immobile and in shock. Valerik is only 3 years old and he is in the ICU in critical condition. He was immediately hospitalized, received a blood transfusion and put on fluids. Once stable, he was taken to surgery to stabilize his vertebrae. During surgery, it was discovered his spinal cord was completely severed, which will significantly impact his mobility. Nevertheless, we remain hopeful and committed to giving Valerik the best possible care and rehabilitation. The veterinarian is currently aspirating hemorrhagic fluid through the drain. Valerik will remain hospitalized for a few days before we transfer him to a boarding facility with a rehab center known for doing miracles with dogs who have spinal injuries. We haven't lost hope that we can fix him and that he will walk once again. Please consider donating to Valerik—he deserves a life without pain and to learn that not all humans are bad. * Update 8/7/24: * For the past several weeks Valerik has been working so hard with his rehabilitation team, undergoing sessions 3-4 times a day. This rigorous routine includes exercises and evening massages, all aimed at helping him regain his strength. The focus has been on building up his lower back and pelvic muscles through exercises like squats, and acupuncture sessions which will help him develop the power needed to lift himself. Despite these efforts, Valerik’s stepping pattern remains a significant challenge. This pattern refers to the coordinated movement and rhythm of his legs as he attempts to walk. Currently, his legs are not moving in a coordinated way that resembles walking, even with external stimulation. This is a critical part of his recovery, as regaining this stepping pattern is essential for him to walk again. The prognosis remains cautious due to Valerik’s spinal cord injury but the fact that he is showing some reaction and engagement during his sessions is a positive sign, suggesting that progress, though slow, is possible. Valerik deserves a chance at a beautiful life and the freedom to move independently as he pleases, despite the cruelty that has taken so much from him. Every bit of progress gives us hope that one day we will see him walk again.
Akatsia
Akatsia is a 3 year old Mix-Breed in Russia, who needs $2,000 for Emergency Surgery and Hospitalization.
Norwood, MA • Big Little Life Animal Rescue International
Akatsia is presumed to be the sole survivor of the senseless violence that four dogs were subjected to, allegedly by a warehouse property watchman. Four dogs lived a peaceful existence and called the grounds around a local store and warehouse their home. This was brutally ended when they were attacked and buried alive by the keeper of the store grounds. He made two attempts, and when both failed, he shot them. Akatsia managed to survive this horrific ordeal. She was picked up by our volunteers and rushed to the vet. Now, she is at the hospital fighting for her life. After almost suffocating, beaten, severely wounded and shot, Akatsia is in critical condition. An emergency surgery was performed to remove the bullet from her lower back and clean her wounds, and drainage, antibiotic therapy, pain medications are being administered. She is already experiencing difficulties with spreading infection and necrosis. Akatsia is traumatized and very agitated. She has endured unimaginable pain and cruelty, and we are committed to not letting her down. We hope with enough time, care, and support, she will regain her health and forget her past traumas. Please consider donating! Update 8/4/24: Akatsia has been under our care for over two months now. Thanks to your support, she has made significant progress on her long road to heal both physically and mentally. Akatsia has recently transitioned from hospital ICU care to our shelter, where she now lives at the shelter's quarantine. While her wounds are still open, they are slowly healing, and we are seeing progress every day. However, her journey is far from over, and she still has months of recovery ahead. The transition to shelter care was challenging for Akatsia. Unfamiliar with her new surroundings and still in considerable pain, she was initially aggressive towards her caretakers.. Despite this, our dedicated team has shown her patience and love, and Akatsia has begun to accept and trust them. She now allows her dressings to be changed daily without sedation, a decision made to protect her cardiovascular health and keep her as strong as possible. Your donations continue to cover her medical expenses, provide necessary supplies, and support her rehabilitation. Update 8/14/24: Akatsia has become quite the little boss lately! She’s constantly climbing onto laps, demanding all the attention for herself. We were waiting for her to come out of her shell and it's so cool to see her transformation—she’s no longer afraid of people and has started trusting again. Her wounds are still healing, and we're continuing to change her dressings regularly. While Akatsia still has some way to go, the progress she’s made is truly heartwarming. Update 9/9/24: Akatsia's healing progress has been steady but slow, which isn't surprising considering the severity of her injuries. The wound on her leg is healing bit by bit, and even though it still causes her pain, Akatsia has placed complete trust in her caregivers. She greets them with a wagging tail and patiently allows treating her every day. This sweet girl is so deserving of the second chance you’ve given her. We’re almost there, but she still needs your help to make a full recovery, which will bring her one step closer in finding a loving home when she is ready.
Sharik
Sharik is a 1 year old Mix-Breed in Russia, who needs $2,000 for Emergency Hospitalization and Eye Removal.
Norwood, MA • Big Little Life Animal Rescue International
Dog Horrifically Attacked Needs Your Help! It was a day the team at Big Little Life Rescue will never forget. It started with a frantic phone call from a volunteer about a dog lying in a ditch. "She called us, crying hysterically, saying she found a dog who had been savagely attacked, and to her, it looked like his eyes were gouged out," Irina V., with the rescue, tells Waggle. They rushed the dog, now named Sharik, to get emergency care. "Sharik is in critical condition in a clinic on a high dose of pain medication and antibiotics," Irina says. "He is unable to walk due to severe head trauma. He also is dehydrated, emaciated, and in shock. Once he is stabilized, his eyes must be surgically removed." The details are a mystery, but Sharik may have been viciously assaulted by someone using a bat. The rescue believes the blows were so merciless and forceful that Sharik's eyes popped out. Sharik is now robbed of his sight and mobility, his world reduced to excruciating pain and fear, leaving him in darkness. But you can help Sharik have the best future possible by supporting his medical care. Help mend his shattered spirit, comfort him, and guide him toward a brighter tomorrow.
Marta
Marta is a 2 year old pit bull mix in Russia, who needs $1,000 for Emergency Surgery and Hospitalization for Wound.
Norwood, MA • Big Little Life Animal Rescue International
Marta's story is one of heartbreak. She was found emaciated and tied up at the back of a volunteer's house suffering in the extreme Russian cold. It is a mystery as to how Marta ended up there. Marta has clearly had a life of suffering. There was a nylon rope that was embedded into her flesh so deeply there were visible metal parts in the wound from the rope; riddled with infection and pus, Marta must have been in severe pain. Marta had emergency surgery to remove the rope, metal pieces, and necrotic tissue that surrounded her neck. The veterinarian estimated the severity of the wound would have taken around a month to develop, which means Marta suffered for weeks. Despite her unimaginable pain and neglect, Marta is extremely trusting of humans and craves attention. She loves to give people kisses and wants constant cuddles. Big Little Life Animal Rescue rescues stray, abandoned and abused animals. They help animals in deplorable conditions to give them a second chance at life. Please consider donating!
Baden
Baden is a 13-year-old German Shepherd mix in Norwood, MA, who needs $2,000 for emergency surgery after being hit by a train.
Norwood, MA • Big Little Life Animal Rescue International
* The Waggle Foundation is dedicated to helping sick and injured pets regain good health. If you join our FurEver Fund today, Waggle will DOUBLE your first month's donation and apply it directly to Baden's care. Click the blue donate button and choose the Monthly Donation option. * Baden's story might be one of the most tragic ones we've ever read here at Waggle. His family left him behind after they moved out--abandoned and left to fend for himself in a Russian danger zone during a brutal winter with temperatures -20C and below. One day, searching for food, he collapsed on train tracks. He was so weak he was unable to escape the impending danger. A train crushed his leg, and for ten agonizing days, he dragged it around until his leg finally detached on its own. The excruciating pain he endured is beyond imagination. "Many people saw Baden crying in pain and desperately trying to survive, but only one compassionate soul captured his struggle on video, and that footage led us to Baden," says Irina V. with Big Little Life Animal Rescue. The nonprofit group helps save animals in post-Soviet Russian countries. "We found him gathering the last of his strength, crawling up the stairs of an abandoned building towards his deserted apartment," Irina tells Waggle. The group rushed Baden to an animal hospital, where he needed emergency surgery to amputate the rest of his leg and tail. He has a tough recovery ahead of him, as healing his battered body and exhausted mind will take time. Please give to help this poor senior boy!