Rags to Riches Animal Rescue Inc

$142.50To go

Ballerina

Ballerina Is Missing Both Back Feet and Needs Our Help

Tampa, FL • Rags to Riches Animal Rescue Inc

What was supposed to be a routine TNR quickly changed when rescuers discovered that Ballerina was missing both of her back feet. Ballerina was initially trapped so she could be spayed and returned to her outdoor home. But after realizing this little cat had no back feet, the person who trapped her knew releasing her back outside simply didn't feel right. They reached out for help, and Ballerina was brought into Rags to Riches Animal Rescue instead. At her veterinary appointment, there was thankfully some encouraging news. Despite everything she had been living with, Ballerina was in relatively good condition. There were small ulcers around the areas where her back feet should be, but they appeared to be healing. There was another major concern, though. Ballerina was only about half the weight she should have been, and she was also experiencing gastrointestinal issues and abnormal stool. Her veterinary team began investigating those problems with an exam and GI parasite testing. Ballerina also received medications including Ponazuril and Panacur, commonly used as part of parasite treatment, along with additional veterinary care to help get this little girl healthier. Her recent veterinary expenses have already reached $178.08, and after surviving outside without either of her back feet, Ballerina now has the opportunity to receive the care and protection she couldn't have had on the streets. She's still learning what she thinks about people. Although she's warming up to human interaction at her own pace, her first veterinary visit showed some promising signs, with staff able to handle her surprisingly well. For now, Ballerina has somewhere safe to heal, gain some much-needed weight, and adjust to this completely different way of life. Please consider donating to Ballerina's Waggle campaign to help with her veterinary expenses, GI treatment, and continued care. This little girl adapted to life outside without both of her back feet. Now she deserves the chance to discover just how good life can be when she doesn't have to survive on her own.

14%Funded

$153.50To go

Mouse

Help Mouse Breathe Easier With Respiratory Treatment

Tampa, FL • Rags to Riches Animal Rescue Inc

After being dumped at a community cat colony and becoming a mother while she was still incredibly young herself, Mouse finally had the chance to leave life outside behind. Now this sweet girl needs a little help with veterinary care of her own. Mouse first appeared at a colony her rescuer had been caring for through TNR for years. She wasn't originally part of the colony. Someone had dumped her there, leaving this friendly young cat to fend for herself. When her rescuer stopped by to feed the colony one day, Mouse came running over, and it was immediately apparent that she was heavily pregnant. Just a few days later, Mouse disappeared. With multiple people feeding cats throughout the area, tracking her down wasn't easy. Eventually, another trapper helping at the colony sent over a photo of a friendly cat she had found. To everyone's surprise and relief, it was Mouse. She had given birth to another litter of kittens despite being little more than a youngster herself. Her days as a teenage mom are thankfully behind her. Mouse was brought into Rags to Riches Animal Rescue, fully vetted, and given the opportunity to live safely indoors. Her rescuers quickly discovered what a sweet, gentle, and loving cat had been left behind at that colony. More recently, Mouse needed additional veterinary attention for respiratory concerns. Her care included anesthesia so her veterinary team could perform a nasal flush, along with nebulization treatment to support her respiratory system. She also received additional diagnostic care, including a urinalysis. Her recent veterinary bill totaled $480.81, an expense her rescue has already taken on to make sure Mouse received the treatment she needed. Mouse has already experienced more uncertainty than such a sweet girl ever should have. She was dumped, became a mother while still young herself, and needed rescue to finally give her the security and care she had been missing. Please consider donating to Mouse's Waggle campaign to help with the cost of her respiratory treatment and veterinary care. Every contribution helps her rescue cover the care they've already provided while continuing to give Mouse the safe, loved life she deserved all along.

22%Funded

$105.50Raised

$375.50To go

Eloise

Help Eloise Recover From Mass Removal & Dental Surgery

Tampa, FL • Rags to Riches Animal Rescue Inc

Eloise has perfected the art of dramatically throwing herself to the ground when she doesn't want to go into her crate, but unfortunately, there was no avoiding the veterinary care this sweet girl recently needed. Eloise has been part of the Rags to Riches family for years, and her personality has never been difficult to spot. Back in 2022, she enjoyed her short daily walks, although her rescuers had to be careful because she could become overheated and have difficulty breathing. And when Eloise decides she doesn't want to do something, she's been known to suddenly "forget" how to hear and dramatically play dead rather than go into her crate. More recently, however, Eloise needed much more than her routine care. Her vets discovered an external mass that needed to be surgically removed and sent for histopathology, allowing the tissue to be examined more closely and giving her veterinary team additional information about what they were dealing with. While under veterinary care, Eloise also underwent much-needed dental treatment. Her procedure included anesthesia, dentistry, and the extraction of a canine tooth that needed to be removed. Her recent veterinary care didn't stop there. Eloise has also undergone additional testing, including heartworm screening, microfilaria testing, and antibody titers, as her rescue continues making sure this girl receives the care she needs. Between her surgery, pathology, dental care, anesthesia, extraction, and additional testing, Eloise's documented veterinary expenses have already reached more than $1,300. For a rescue caring for multiple animals, expenses like these add up quickly, but Eloise's caregivers have continued making sure she gets what she needs. Now they're hoping for a little help covering the cost. Please consider donating to Eloise's Waggle campaign to help with the veterinary expenses from her mass removal, biopsy, dental surgery, and continued care. Every donation helps her rescue cover the treatment this sweet, stubborn, wonderfully dramatic girl has needed and allows them to continue being there for animals like Eloise when unexpected medical needs arise.

$1,322To go

Peeta

Help Peeta Through His Second Cleft Palate Surgery

Tampa, FL • Rags to Riches Animal Rescue Inc

Peeta has been fighting medical challenges since he was only days old, but more than a year later, one of the problems everyone hoped he had outgrown has come back to affect him in a serious way. Peeta came to Rags to Riches as a tiny newborn after his mother wouldn't feed him. His brother sadly passed away shortly after birth, leaving little Peeta dependent on his foster family to give him the chance to grow. Within his first few weeks of life, his rescuers discovered that Peeta had a small opening in his palate, known as a cleft palate. Because the opening was so tiny and similar cases they had cared for had closed naturally as the puppies grew, everyone hoped Peeta's would do the same. And for a while, it seemed like it had. Peeta still faced other medical challenges during puppyhood. He experienced neurological symptoms and frightening episodes of dangerously low blood sugar that sometimes resulted in seizures. His rescue worked closely with veterinarians, sought emergency care when necessary, and kept him under careful supervision while trying to understand what his little body was going through. Eventually, the episodes subsided, and his cleft appeared to have completely closed. Then, more than a year after Peeta was born, something suddenly changed. He began struggling to eat. At times, trying to eat would send him into respiratory distress, and his rescuers worried that it felt as though he was suffocating whenever food entered the opening in his palate. Further examination revealed that although Peeta's cleft had appeared closed, a very small opening was still present between his mouth and nasal passage. A catheter passed through his nose was able to emerge through the opening, confirming the problem. For the first time in all of the cleft palate puppies his rescue had cared for, waiting for natural closure was no longer enough. Peeta needed surgery. Veterinarians surgically closed the opening in hopes of allowing him to eat more comfortably without food entering an area where it didn't belong. Unfortunately, that wasn't the end of Peeta's journey. When the problem continued, Peeta was brought in for another surgery, with the hope that a more extensive repair would finally close the cleft for good. Through everything, this little guy continues to fight. Following surgery, Peeta's rescue is hoping that the second time will be the charm and that he can finally put this painful and frightening problem behind him. His veterinary care has already included extensive diagnostics, imaging, sedation, anesthesia, surgery, dental care, medications, and follow-up treatment, with nearly $2,000 in documented veterinary expenses already and additional surgical care now added to his journey. Peeta has spent his entire life surrounded by people determined to give him every chance possible. Now his rescue desperately needs some help covering the medical care it has taken to get him this far. Please consider donating to Peeta's Waggle campaign to help with the cost of his cleft palate surgeries and continued recovery. His second surgery may be behind him, but he still needs time to heal and make sure this repair finally allows him to eat comfortably and safely. Every donation helps his rescue continue giving Peeta the care he has needed since he was just a tiny newborn.

$1,986To go

Pearl

Help Pearl With Her Tail Amputation & Recovery

Tampa, FL • Rags to Riches Animal Rescue Inc

Pearl's tail never seems to stop wagging, but the very thing that shows how happy she is has become a painful medical problem. Pearl came into Rags to Riches' care more than three years ago carrying both physical and emotional scars from her past. She was underweight, struggled with severe skin and allergy issues, and would cower if she thought someone was upset with her or raised something over her head. Despite everything she had experienced, Pearl quickly showed everyone what a remarkably gentle and affectionate girl she is. Her rescuers lovingly describe her as a "stage 5 clinger," and at around 55 pounds, this Boxer/American Bully mix has never seemed to realize she might be a little too big to stick quite so close. Pearl's medical journey has already included treatment for her chronic skin and allergy problems, eye surgery, and a difficult recovery from her spay that led to repeated problems with her incision and required additional veterinary care. More recently, Pearl developed another painful problem: happy tail. Happy tail happens when a dog wags their tail so enthusiastically that it repeatedly strikes walls, furniture, crates, or other hard surfaces. Over time, the end of the tail can split open and bleed. Because the tail continues wagging and hitting things, these injuries can be incredibly difficult to heal. That's exactly what has been happening to Pearl. Her tail has been breaking open and bleeding again and again, sometimes every single day. Her rescue has tried wrapping and protecting it, but even with their best efforts, Pearl continues to reopen the injury. Eventually, they had to consider something they had desperately hoped to avoid: surgically amputating the injured portion of her tail so it could finally heal. Pearl has undergone extensive veterinary care surrounding her latest medical needs, including pre-surgical bloodwork and coagulation testing, anesthesia, surgery, medications, and post-operative treatment. Her current veterinary expenses total more than $1,600. Through all of it, Pearl is still Pearl: affectionate, gentle, a little goofy, and happiest when she can be close to the people she trusts. After everything this sweet girl has already overcome, her rescue wants nothing more than to get her comfortable again and put this painful chapter behind her. Please consider donating to Pearl's Waggle campaign to help with the cost of her surgery and continued recovery. Her tail may have earned the nickname "happy tail," but the repeated injuries have been anything but happy for Pearl. Every donation helps her rescue cover the veterinary care she needs to finally heal.

$1,640To go

Nova

Help Nova Breathe Easier After Aspiration Pneumonia

Tampa, FL • Rags to Riches Animal Rescue Inc

For more than five years, Nova has known what it means to be safe, but getting there took an incredible amount of patience and trust. Nova was first rescued after a horrifying call about a man trying to hurt a mother cat and her newborn kittens after she gave birth on his porch. A volunteer rushed over and was able to get Nova and her five babies to safety. All five kittens eventually found homes, but their frightened mama was left waiting. Nova wasn't an immediately social or trusting cat. After everything she had experienced, she was scared, and she needed someone willing to give her time rather than give up on her. Rags to Riches saw past that fear, took Nova in, and slowly earned her trust. More than five years later, Nova is still very much a cat who appreciates having a safe place of her own. She'll venture out for her zoomies before happily retreating back to her crate, and she has a favorite bed that she loves so much that she gets genuinely upset whenever it disappears into the wash. Recently, however, something changed. Nova became unusually picky about eating. Since she had undergone dental care last year, it wasn't immediately clear what was bothering her. A veterinary visit brought a surprising diagnosis: Nova had aspiration pneumonia along with bronchitis. Aspiration pneumonia occurs when material such as food, liquid, or vomit enters the lungs instead of being swallowed normally, which can cause significant inflammation and infection. Nova had given very little outward indication that anything so serious was happening. Her veterinary care has included bloodwork, diagnostic imaging and X-rays, sedation, specialist radiology review, antibiotics, nausea medication, and additional supportive treatment. Thankfully, Nova has started feeling better, but her care isn't finished yet. Veterinarians have also discovered that Nova needs another dental procedure. Before she can safely undergo anesthesia for her dental care, her pneumonia and bronchitis need to be treated and her respiratory health needs to improve. After everything Nova survived before she was rescued, she deserves the chance to continue receiving the medical care she needs while surrounded by the person who refused to give up on her all those years ago. Please consider donating to Nova's Waggle campaign to help with the veterinary care she has already received and the treatment still ahead. Every donation helps with the cost of getting her lungs healthy again and preparing her for the dental care she still needs.

2%Funded

$1,539.50To go

Flittermouse & Gertrude

Help Gertrude & Flittermouse With Parvo & Emergency Vet Care”

Tampa, FL • Rags to Riches Animal Rescue Inc

Two little dogs arrived in rescue needing help, and almost immediately, both began showing frightening signs that something was wrong. Gertrude came to Rags to Riches Animal Rescue through an owner surrender already severely underweight and suffering from terrible diarrhea. Her caregivers knew she needed veterinary attention and brought her in the very next day. The results brought even more bad news: Gertrude tested positive for parvovirus. Parvo is a highly contagious and potentially life-threatening virus that can cause severe vomiting, diarrhea, dehydration, and weakness, with vulnerable dogs sometimes requiring intensive supportive care and isolation. Gertrude had already arrived thin and struggling, leaving her little body with even less to fall back on as she faced the virus. She remained at North Bay in quarantine while receiving veterinary care and waiting until it was safe for her to leave. Thankfully, Gertrude eventually tested negative and was finally able to head home with her foster. Even something as simple as getting a much-needed bath became a milestone after everything this sweet girl had been through. Then there is Flittermouse, a young puppy who came to the rescue after a Good Samaritan found her being kept outside. A foster quickly stepped forward to give her somewhere safe to go, but it wasn't long before Flittermouse began vomiting and refusing to eat. With Gertrude's recent diagnosis making parvo an especially frightening possibility, Flittermouse was quickly brought to the veterinarian for testing. Thankfully, she tested negative. Her veterinary team ran additional testing to investigate her symptoms and gave her medication to control the nausea. Soon afterward, she was eating again and beginning to feel better. But this poor puppy's run of bad luck wasn't finished. Flittermouse managed to briefly get hold of a roach trap, and when she began shaking and panting, her foster immediately rushed her to the emergency hospital. After consulting poison control and having her evaluated, everyone was relieved to learn that the substance in the trap was not considered toxic to dogs. She was able to return home with instructions to be closely monitored. In a matter of days, Gertrude and Flittermouse needed parvo testing, diagnostic care, medication, isolation, monitoring, and an emergency hospital visit. Rags to Riches didn't hesitate to get either of these little girls help when something seemed wrong, but those unexpected veterinary expenses add up quickly for a rescue already stretched thin. Donations to Gertrude and Flittermouse's fundraiser will help with the cost of their parvo testing, Gertrude's isolation and care, Flittermouse's treatment for vomiting and nausea, her emergency evaluation, and other eligible veterinary expenses. Both girls have already needed far more medical attention than anyone expected, and your support can help Rags to Riches continue providing the care they need as they recover.

$428To go

Swiss & Trailer Swift

Help Trailer Swift & Swiss With Essential Veterinary Care

Tampa, FL • Rags to Riches Animal Rescue Inc

One was found living underneath a mobile home, while the other is a curious young kitten who wants to be part of everything. Now Swiss and Trailer Swift are both relying on Rags to Riches Animal Rescue to make sure they receive the veterinary care they need before moving on to their forever homes. Trailer Swift is a sweet gray and white cat who was discovered living underneath a mobile home. The original plan was to have her spayed, vaccinated, and returned outside through TNVR, but there was one problem: Trailer Swift was simply far too friendly to send back to life outdoors. This affectionate girl made it clear that she wanted to be around people. She loves cuddling, being picked up and held like a baby, and having full conversations with her caregivers when she wants attention or knows it's time to eat. Once her foster saw just how social she was, Rags to Riches decided Trailer Swift deserved the opportunity to trade life underneath a mobile home for a safe indoor home of her own. Before she can begin that next chapter, the rescue has been making sure her veterinary needs are taken care of. Trailer Swift has undergone her spay along with wellness care, vaccinations, fecal testing, feline disease testing, microchipping, and medication to keep her comfortable following surgery. For now, she is safely recovering indoors in her little spay suit instead of struggling outside. Swiss is a playful tabby kitten with a very different beginning but the same need for responsible veterinary care. This curious little explorer loves chasing toys, climbing, investigating anything new, and following her people around the house so she doesn't miss out on the fun. She enjoys other cats and has been learning what life with dogs is like, too. As Swiss grows, Rags to Riches has been keeping up with the vaccinations and preventive care she needs to stay protected. Her recent care has included important kitten vaccinations, rabies vaccination, and several months of parasite prevention. Neither of these girls needed a dramatic emergency for their veterinary care to matter. Spaying, vaccinations, disease testing, parasite prevention, and routine medical care are all important parts of giving rescued animals a healthy start, and those expenses add up quickly when a rescue is caring for animal after animal. Donations to Swiss and Trailer Swift's fundraiser will help cover their spay, vaccinations, testing, parasite prevention, and other eligible veterinary expenses. With Rags to Riches covering the care these girls need now, Trailer Swift can continue adjusting to a life safely indoors while Swiss continues growing into the playful, curious girl she's meant to be.

13%Funded

$50.50Raised

$335.50To go

Lilly, Spoon & Princess Leia

Lilly, Spoon & Princess Leia Need GI Treatment

Tampa, FL • Rags to Riches Animal Rescue Inc

Three very different rescue pets have found themselves needing a little extra help managing their GI issues while Rags to Riches Animal Rescue works to get each of them feeling their best. Lilly is a small white dog who came to the rescue through an owner surrender along with her sibling. She is partially blind and deaf and has been working through separation anxiety while adjusting to life in her foster home. Despite those challenges, Lilly is potty trained, walks nicely on a leash, and has slowly started coming out of her shell. Recently, her caregivers also became concerned when Lilly became extremely picky with her food and struggled with her appetite. Her foster tried different options to encourage her to eat, while veterinary care included an examination, gastrointestinal parasite testing, medication for nausea, and other supportive treatment. Then there is Spoon, an approximately 2-to-3-year-old Scottish Fold who was found as a stray alongside his buddy, Fish. Although Spoon arrived looking like a well-cared-for cat, no family came forward to reclaim him. As he settled into foster care, this initially grumpy boy began showing off his playful side and earning himself the title of a certified purr machine. Unfortunately, Spoon began experiencing diarrhea and an upset stomach, requiring veterinary care to investigate what was going on. His treatment has included an examination, comprehensive laboratory testing, and multiple medications to address his gastrointestinal troubles. Even while his belly hasn't been feeling its best, Spoon has maintained a healthy appetite and continues purring up a storm for his foster. Princess Leia is a sweet orange cat who shares an especially close bond with her daughter, Padme. The pair had previously been adopted but were later returned through no fault of their own. They are affectionate girls who love cuddling, grooming one another, playing together, and staying close to their people. While Princess Leia adjusts to another unexpected transition, she has also needed help with gastrointestinal troubles of her own. Her care has included medication along with a specialized gastrointestinal diet to help support her digestive system. Lilly, Spoon, and Princess Leia may have very different stories, but all three are depending on Rags to Riches to make sure their medical needs don't go overlooked. Tests, medications, specialized food, and veterinary appointments can quickly add up, especially for a rescue caring for so many animals at once. Donations to this fundraiser will help cover the veterinary exams, diagnostic testing, medications, specialized dietary support, and other eligible care Lilly, Spoon, and Princess Leia need. Your support can help Rags to Riches continue getting these three sweeties feeling better while they each work toward the happy, healthy futures they deserve.

4%Funded

$552.50To go

Stinky

Stinky Has Been Through It. Let's Turn Her Life Around.

Tampa, FL • Rags to Riches Animal Rescue Inc

Stinky may have earned the affectionate nickname “Stinky Princess,” but this sweet girl has been through quite a lot on her way back to feeling like royalty again. When Stinky came into the care of Rags to Riches, she desperately needed some TLC. Her coat was severely matted, she was covered in fleas, and her caregivers had plenty of work ahead of them just to get her clean and comfortable. Slowly, the transformation began. After only two weeks, the mats and fleas had been tackled, and this stinky little girl who first arrived was starting to look more and more like the pretty princess underneath. Unfortunately, just over a week later, Stinky suddenly became sick. She developed a concerning fever. Her foster closely monitored her and was prepared to rush her to the emergency hospital if needed. Although they managed to bring her temperature down to 102 degrees, the fever persisted through the night. The next day, Stinky was brought to the veterinarian for answers. She received an exam and diagnostic bloodwork to help determine what was making her sick. With an infection suspected, she was also given an antibiotic injection. On top of everything else, Stinky was still battling persistent tapeworms despite already being dewormed twice, requiring additional treatment with praziquantel. Bill after bill was adding up, but Rags to Riches is committed to getting Stinky back to full health so she can find her loving forever home. From severe matting and fleas to a frightening fever, infection concerns, and stubborn parasites, Stinky has needed continued care to help her finally feel healthy and comfortable again. Rags to Riches has been there through every step of her transformation. Now, they need help covering the veterinary expenses that came with giving their Stinky Princess the care she deserved. Please consider donating toward Stinky’s medical bills. Every contribution can help this sweet girl leave her scruffy days behind and continue her transformation into the happy, healthy princess she was always meant to be.

7%Funded

$323.50To go

Wisp

A Safer, Healthier Future For Wisp Is Nearly Here

Tampa, FL • Rags to Riches Animal Rescue Inc

At just three years old, Wisp has already faced a lifetime’s worth of medical challenges. As a baby, Wisp developed a stricture that made something as basic as going to the bathroom difficult and uncomfortable. She underwent ballooning procedures in hopes of correcting it. But during her last one, Wisp’s heart stopped. She survived, but with an underlying heart condition, any future procedure requiring anesthesia would carry added concern. Unfortunately, the stricture eventually began causing problems again. Stool would become trapped or “pocket,” making it increasingly difficult for Wisp to comfortably use the bathroom. She also needed significant dental work earlier this year, another procedure that simply couldn't be avoided despite the risks. By July, Wisp’s recurring stricture had progressed to the point where her veterinary team needed to intervene again. Dr. Madill and Dr. Burns worked together to get Wisp through not one, but two procedures: her spay and reconstructive surgery to correct the stricture. Given her previous cardiac arrest, seeing Wisp safely make it through both surgeries was an especially meaningful milestone. The hope is that this surgery will finally allow her to use the bathroom comfortably without the recurring problems she has endured for so long. Her medical journey hasn't ended there. More recently, Wisp developed an eye problem requiring an exam, specialized eye testing, antibiotics, and ophthalmic medication. Between her reconstructive surgery, dental care, eye treatment, and other veterinary needs, Rags to Riches is hoping to raise $1,500 to help cover Wisp’s extensive care. Wisp has remained quite the character despite her laundry list of setbacks. Her favorite mealtime technique involves enthusiastically dunking her entire face into her food—making keeping her clean practically a full-time job! Please consider donating toward Wisp’s $1,500 goal. After everything this little cat has overcome, your support can help Rags to Riches continue giving her the care she needs to feel comfortable, healthy, and ready for whatever comes next.

2%Funded

$1,474.50To go

Jeremy & Morty

A New Beginning for Jeremy & Morty

Tampa, FL • Rags to Riches Animal Rescue Inc

For Jeremy and Morty, learning how to simply be dogs has been a journey of its own. These two small Dachshund mixes were rescued by Rags to Riches on August 28 from a severe hoarding situation in Holiday, Florida. They were among six dogs discovered after more than 20 others had already been removed from conditions the rescue described as some of the worst they had ever encountered. Both arrived carrying the effects of that life with them. Jeremy, weighing less than 10 pounds, came in with damaged, shredded ears and had experienced such food deprivation that he needed to be hand-fed and showed mild resource guarding. He had never learned to walk on a leash, wasn't potty trained, and seemed unfamiliar with simply being outside. Once in foster care, severe separation anxiety also emerged, particularly at night. Yet underneath that fear is an incredibly loving little dog. Jeremy adores other dogs, children, and, most of all, snuggling. Morty, at around 11 pounds, was one of the most shut-down dogs rescued from the home. Initially, he was too frightened to tolerate a collar or leash and was considered a serious flight risk. But when he thought no one was watching, his foster family began seeing glimpses of the real Morty on camera. Secretly playing with toys and discovering just how much he loves squeakers and treats. Both boys are slowly learning that they are safe now. Rags to Riches has also made sure their physical needs are addressed. Jeremy and Morty have been neutered, microchipped, vaccinated, and tested for heartworm, along with receiving additional preventive and supportive care. Their medical care may be complete for now, but healing from their past will take time. Their foster families are patiently teaching them the everyday things they never had the opportunity to learn while giving them the structure, security, and love they need to build confidence. Please consider donating toward Jeremy and Morty’s veterinary expenses. Your support can help Rags to Riches continue giving dogs from difficult situations the time and care they need to discover just how good life can be.

$510To go

Ronda

Help Ronda

Tampa, FL • Rags to Riches Animal Rescue Inc

Last month, Ronda appeared outside crying for help. When the door opened, this five-year-old cat didn't hesitate and confidently walked right inside. Ronda had clearly decided she was done with life outdoors. Her microchip revealed her name and previous owners, but both phone numbers connected to it had sadly been disconnected. Rags to Riches did everything possible to find her family, including filing a found-cat report, notifying the microchip company, and attempting to make contact through social media. More than a month passed without a response. So it was time for Ronda to begin preparing for a new chapter. From the start, she made it clear just how much she loves people. Her caregivers describe her as an absolute lover who settled happily into foster care and appears comfortable around cats, dogs, and children. After finding her way inside, she seems more than ready to stay there. Unfortunately, Ronda didn't arrive without medical needs. She was suffering from a significant ear infection that proved stubborn and required weeks of veterinary care. Ronda has undergone multiple exams and rechecks, repeated ear cytology to monitor the infection, ear cleanings, and several rounds of medication. She also received important routine care, including FeLV/FIV testing, a fecal test, and vaccinations. Though her health may not seem scary, her recurring issues have come with significant costs. Thankfully, all that care is finally paying off: Ronda’s ear infection is nearly cleared! Now, this affectionate girl is ready to put her days outside behind her for good and find the permanent family she has been waiting for. Please consider donating toward Ronda’s veterinary expenses. Your support can help Rags to Riches cover the care that got her healthy and ready for the indoor life—and forever home—she so clearly chose for herself. ❤️

5%Funded

$494.50To go

Forrest & Fern

Small Kittens. Big Personalities. Fern and Forrest Need Help.

Tampa, FL • Rags to Riches Animal Rescue Inc

Fern and Forrest are two little kittens with very big personalities but lately, both have needed some extra help to feel their best. The pair has been growing up in foster care with Rags to Riches while waiting for their forever homes. Fern, a black-and-white girl, is the fearless adventurer. She wants to be involved in absolutely everything, whether she’s “helping” with laundry and groceries, hitching a ride on the vacuum cleaner, or even wrestling with her foster family’s 60-pound dog. But underneath all that confidence is an affectionate kitten who is perfectly happy being held like a baby. Her brother Forrest is just as lovable. He enjoys playing with his sister, but at heart, he is a true cuddle bug who loves nothing more than being close to his people. Unfortunately, just weeks ago, both kittens began experiencing persistent diarrhea that required veterinary attention. Fern and Forrest needed exams, fecal and gastrointestinal parasite testing, deworming, medications, and continued monitoring to help get their stomach troubles under control. They have also needed the routine vaccinations and preventive care that are so important while they grow. Despite upset stomachs and even a move to a new foster home along the way, these two haven't let much slow them down. They remain playful, affectionate, social kittens who are always ready for their next adventure or a cuddle once playtime is over. Fern and Forrest are still waiting for their forever homes, whether that means staying together or finding families with other feline companions to keep them company. Please consider donating toward their veterinary expenses. Your support can help Rags to Riches cover the care these sweet siblings need as they continue growing, playing, and waiting for families of their own. ❤️

5%Funded

$451.50To go

Poppy

Poppy Needs Our Help!

Tampa, FL • Rags to Riches Animal Rescue Inc

At just two years old, Poppy has already survived more than any dog should have to endure. This sweet girl came to Rags to Riches in February 2026 after being rescued from severe neglect. Poppy had recently given birth, but her puppies had been taken away too soon. She was severely underweight, confined to a crate in filthy conditions, bleeding, and suffering from painfully infected mammary glands. After being repeatedly used for breeding, Poppy’s body desperately needed help. That following week her vet had determined she had been battling mastitis for weeks. When she stopped eating and became lethargic, urgent veterinary care became necessary. She later had to return to the vet when one of the affected areas opened, requiring even more treatment. But with medical care and the dedication of an incredible foster family, Poppy began to heal and the dog she became is almost unrecognizable from the frightened, sick girl who first arrived. Today, Poppy is a giant cuddle bug who is almost always smiling. She loves toys, walks, swimming at the beach, blueberries, ice cubes, playing with other dogs, and being as close to her people as possible. She is potty and crate trained, walks well on a leash, and has learned several commands. What Poppy still doesn't have is a forever home. A planned adoption fell through in June, leaving her waiting once again. Recently, she has also needed another round of extensive veterinary care, including bloodwork, X-rays, an ultrasound, an echocardiogram and cardiology evaluation, fluids, diagnostic testing, and additional treatment. Through every setback, Rags to Riches has continued showing up for Poppy. Now, they need help covering the veterinary care she needs while her search for a permanent family continues. Please consider donating to Poppy’s care. She has already fought so hard to leave her old life behind. Your support can help make sure she has everything she needs as she waits for the loving home that will finally be hers.

$1,738To go

Leo

Leo Is One Step Away From Adoption

Tampa, FL • Rags to Riches Animal Rescue Inc

When Leo began hanging around a school in the Tampa area, it was hard to believe this sweet, affectionate cat didn't have a family somewhere looking for him. Leo was incredibly friendly and comfortable around people. His finder initially assumed he must belong to someone, but when no owner could be located, Rags to Riches stepped in to give him a safe place to land. Once Leo entered foster care, it became even clearer that this gentleman had likely known life inside a home before. He is completely litter trained, carefully covers everything without making a mess, uses his scratching post instead of the furniture, and rarely has anything to complain about. Most of all, Leo simply wants to be near his people. Whether he’s curled up on a lap, soaking up pets, or quietly keeping someone company, Leo is happiest when he feels loved. His foster describes him as an incredibly cuddly gentleman with the tiniest, most adorable meow. Before Leo could be ready for adoption, however, he needed some important veterinary care. Significant dental problems required anesthesia, dental X-rays and cleaning, oral surgery, along with additional testing and preventive care. Thankfully, Leo completed his dental treatment in late August and is now fully vetted and ready for his next chapter: finding a forever home of his own. Rags to Riches gave Leo the medical care and safe foster home he needed to leave his days outside behind. Now, your support can help cover the cost of getting him healthy and adoption-ready. Please consider donating toward Leo’s care and helping Rags to Riches continue giving cats like him the fresh starts they deserve.

9%Funded

$60.50Raised

$616.50To go

Rome

Rome is One Step Closer To Forever! Let's Help Him Get There

Tampa, FL • Rags to Riches Animal Rescue Inc

Rome has spent more than a year waiting for the one thing every rescue dog deserves: a home of his own. His journey began in January 2025, when the young Shepherd/Terrier/Pit Bull mix was found roaming Seminole Heights. After weeks on the streets, the 30-pound love bug of a dog was finally brought to safety. Sadly, he was severely underweight, limping, struggling with joint concerns, and suffering from a bacterial skin infection caused by a bite wound on his paw. Rome was also terrified. He was a serious flight risk, and with no foster home available, Rags to Riches placed him in boarding to keep him safe. What was meant to be temporary turned into more than a year of waiting. Slowly, Rome began to change. As he learned to trust the people around him, his personality emerged. The once-frightened stray became a goofy, playful “class clown” who loves attention and never seems to run out of energy. His journey hasn't been without setbacks. In October 2025, a serious gastrointestinal illness led to an overnight veterinary stay, X-rays, fluids, and medication. Then, in April 2026, Rome finally got his chance to experience life in a foster home, and he has made tremendous progress! He is crate and potty trained, loves running around the yard, enjoys cuddling once he feels comfortable, and has settled into his household routine. He still gets nervous around unfamiliar situations, but every day he is becoming more confident. Now, Rome is waiting for his next big milestone: finding his forever home. Until that day comes, Rags to Riches continues covering his veterinary care and everyday needs. His most recent vet visit included an exam, urinalysis, heartworm testing, and vaccinations. Please consider donating to help Rags to Riches continue caring for Rome while he waits. After such a long journey from frightened stray to beloved foster dog, this goofy little guy deserves every chance to keep moving forward.

$234To go

Sampson

Sampson Doesn't Deserve To Live In Pain

Tampa, FL • Rags to Riches Animal Rescue Inc

When Sampson began straining to urinate, Rags to Riches knew something wasn’t right. He was brought to the vet in late August, where the rescue learned he was experiencing a flare of feline idiopathic cystitis (FIC), a painful condition that causes inflammation of the bladder. At first, Sampson was still able to pass small amounts of urine, but that quickly changed. By August 26, his condition had worsened. Sampson was brought to North Bay, where his veterinary team attempted laser therapy twice in hopes of helping him urinate. Unfortunately, neither attempt worked. Sampson was becoming blocked, turning an already painful situation into a medical emergency. There was no time to wait. His veterinary team moved forward with emergency treatment to relieve the obstruction. Sampson required urinary catheterization, a bladder ultrasound, hospitalization, and supportive care to safely get him through the blockage and begin his recovery. The entire ordeal has been especially difficult for Sampson, who already finds veterinary visits incredibly stressful. Knowing how frightened and uncomfortable he was, Rags to Riches made sure he received the urgent care he needed. Now, they need help covering the cost. Sampson’s veterinary bills have reached $1,647.44, adding another significant expense for a rescue caring for animals who have nowhere else to turn. Please consider donating toward Sampson’s medical care. Every contribution, can help Rags to Riches cover his emergency treatment and continue being there when animals like Sampson need them most. ❤️

2%Funded

$1,621.50To go

Whimsy

Help Whimsy

Tampa, FL • Rags to Riches Animal Rescue Inc

Whimsy may be tiny, but this little girl has already faced an incredibly complicated medical journey. Whimsy was surrendered to Rags to Riches at just three months old after concerns arose about her unusually small size and possible health problems. What initially looked like a mild respiratory infection soon became something much more serious. By late February, Whimsy was extremely congested, and imaging revealed fluid surrounding her heart and lungs along with apparent heart enlargement. With FIP among the concerns, treatment began immediately. Thankfully, within days, the fluid disappeared and Whimsy’s energy started returning. She went on to complete an 84-day course of FIP treatment, but her challenges were far from over. Doctors discovered a hernia pushing her organs upward into her chest, making it harder for her to breathe. She underwent surgery in March to repair it, but recurring congestion and wheezing continued. Further evaluation revealed just how restricted Whimsy’s airways were. Her veterinarian described one nostril as barely a pin-dot-sized opening. Surgery in April helped open her airway, but tissue from her cheeks continued obstructing her nostrils. Last month, Whimsy underwent yet another procedure to remove some of that tissue and give her more room to breathe. Her care has included multiple surgeries, bloodwork, anesthesia, respiratory testing, cultures, medications, pathology and continued follow-ups. Her August surgery alone totaled $3,558.60, and the documented expenses from this stage of her care have reached nearly $3,900. One positive, is that Whimsy continues to eat, play and show everyone the personality that makes her so special. Rags to Riches has never stopped fighting to give Whimsy the chance to breathe comfortably and enjoy the life ahead of her. Now, they need help covering the mounting cost of her care. Please donate if you can and help Rags to Riches continue giving Whimsy everything she needs to heal. Every contribution brings this determined little girl another step closer to breathing easier. ❤️

1%Funded

$3,862.50To go

Clover

Help Clover Overcome Infections and Get Back on Her Feet

Tampa, FL • Rags to Riches Animal Rescue Inc

Three years after being adopted, Clover suddenly came back into the care of Rags to Riches Animal Rescue in heartbreaking condition. A member of the community found Clover outside, overheated, exhausted, severely overweight at approximately 130 pounds, and struggling to walk or urinate. They rushed her to an emergency hospital nearly three hours from the rescue. Despite repeated attempts to contact her adopter, the rescue received no response. The moment they learned Clover needed help, they stepped back in and took responsibility for her care. Clover's emergency veterinary bill quickly reached almost $5,000, and she was still facing several serious concerns. She was leaking urine almost constantly, passing blood, extremely wobbly on her feet, and suffering from a severe ear infection. At one point, her condition was so concerning that her rescue feared they could be faced with a heartbreaking quality of life decision. Thankfully, Clover's recent veterinary visit brought some much needed hope. She is being treated with antibiotics for infections affecting her urinary tract and ear, and her ear has been cleaned and flushed. She is eating, drinking, able to stand, and her walking has begun to improve, although she remains very wobbly. Veterinarians also noted that her knees are buckling, and her significant excess weight may be contributing to some of her mobility problems. Clover is still leaking urine and passing some blood, and her veterinary team will need to see how she responds once her infections are under control before they can determine what additional care she may need. Funds raised through this campaign will help Rags to Riches Animal Rescue cover Clover's emergency veterinary expenses and continued care as she fights her infections, works on her mobility, and begins the journey toward feeling like herself again. Rags to Riches Animal Rescue promises its animals that they can always come back if they need help. Three years after her adoption, Clover needed them again, and they didn't hesitate to be there for her.