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❤️🌈 Kelly never stopped being my girl. She moved upstate to live with her mom, @cmerry, showered with love in a creekside paradise. But before that, she was the city girl no one wanted because of the crippling anxiety caused by a not-yet-diagnosed autoimmune disease. After a near-fatal illness, Kelly fought back to be happy, playful and full of life. She adored her brother Oscar, seeing something special in him that brought her out of her shell. And she never stopped being an affectionate, lovable sweetheart. Every day with her momma, and thankfully, during my visits with me.

I wish I had so many more years with Kelly. Even if I wasn’t there often in person, seeing videos of her running in the grass with a huge smile felt like victory. She started her new life by crawling into my lap after being returned at an adoption event. She ended it in her momma’s arms. Kelly, I’m so sorry we won’t have more time together, but I swear I’ll love you every day forever ❤️♾️

#kellypawlightly
#adoptdontshop

🌈 On 12/27/21, Oscar crossed the rainbow bridge to join his sister Tiki. Waiting with her were his kitty siblings Cassady, Shaolina, Booda and Chaps, and they all cheered when they saw him running without wheels for the first time.

Oscar had a bad seizure two weeks ago and spent three days in the ICU. Despite every imaginable care in the hospital and at home he continued to decline, and my beautiful, brave boy clearly couldn’t enjoy his life any longer. His veterinarian, Dr. Schaubhut, who was also one of his rescuers, came to him at home to set him free, and his momma @cmerry and I were there holding him.

There is a hole in my heart too large to measure. In his last days I kept telling him he was my hero. I’ve never known anyone, human or animal, who inspired me the way he did. I was in awe the moment I met him, and I still watch his videos in wonder, amazed at the spirit that never let his injury slow him down.

I seriously can’t imagine my life if I had never met him. So much of what means the most to me is only there because of where he led me. I know that many people have continued fighting for their disabled pets because of Oscar, and others adopted special needs pets after seeing or meeting him and wanting a hero of their own. Many of you have donated and helped other animals in need because of him, and spread so much awareness that special needs animals can live happy lives.

Please, always do that. Too many people still don’t know that an animal wants to live and experience joy, and they won’t give up if you don’t give up on them. If you ever know someone who’s ready to quit, please tell them you knew a boy named Oscar, who was abandoned on the street with a broken back, and with a lot of love, he spent the next ten years as the happiest boy in the world.

🌈 On 12/27/21, Oscar crossed the rainbow bridge to join his sister Tiki. Waiting with her were his kitty siblings Cassady, Shaolina, Booda and Chaps, and they all cheered when they saw him running without wheels for the first time.

Oscar had a bad seizure two weeks ago and spent three days in the ICU. Despite every imaginable care in the hospital and at home he continued to decline, and my beautiful, brave boy clearly couldn’t enjoy his life any longer. His veterinarian, Dr. Schaubhut, who was also one of his rescuers, came to him at home to set him free, and his momma @cmerry and I were there holding him.

There is a hole in my heart too large to measure. In his last days I kept telling him he was my hero. I’ve never known anyone, human or animal, who inspired me the way he did. I was in awe the moment I met him, and I still watch his videos in wonder, amazed at the spirit that never let his injury slow him down.

I seriously can’t imagine my life if I had never met him. So much of what means the most to me is only there because of where he led me. I know that many people have continued fighting for their disabled pets because of Oscar, and others adopted special needs pets after seeing or meeting him and wanting a hero of their own. Many of you have donated and helped other animals in need because of him, and spread so much awareness that special needs animals can live happy lives.

Please, always do that. Too many people still don’t know that an animal wants to live and experience joy, and they won’t give up if you don’t give up on them. If you ever know someone who’s ready to quit, please tell them you knew a boy named Oscar, who was abandoned on the street with a broken back, and with a lot of love, he spent the next ten years as the happiest boy in the world.

🌈 On 12/27/21, Oscar crossed the rainbow bridge to join his sister Tiki. Waiting with her were his kitty siblings Cassady, Shaolina, Booda and Chaps, and they all cheered when they saw him running without wheels for the first time.

Oscar had a bad seizure two weeks ago and spent three days in the ICU. Despite every imaginable care in the hospital and at home he continued to decline, and my beautiful, brave boy clearly couldn’t enjoy his life any longer. His veterinarian, Dr. Schaubhut, who was also one of his rescuers, came to him at home to set him free, and his momma @cmerry and I were there holding him.

There is a hole in my heart too large to measure. In his last days I kept telling him he was my hero. I’ve never known anyone, human or animal, who inspired me the way he did. I was in awe the moment I met him, and I still watch his videos in wonder, amazed at the spirit that never let his injury slow him down.

I seriously can’t imagine my life if I had never met him. So much of what means the most to me is only there because of where he led me. I know that many people have continued fighting for their disabled pets because of Oscar, and others adopted special needs pets after seeing or meeting him and wanting a hero of their own. Many of you have donated and helped other animals in need because of him, and spread so much awareness that special needs animals can live happy lives.

Please, always do that. Too many people still don’t know that an animal wants to live and experience joy, and they won’t give up if you don’t give up on them. If you ever know someone who’s ready to quit, please tell them you knew a boy named Oscar, who was abandoned on the street with a broken back, and with a lot of love, he spent the next ten years as the happiest boy in the world.

🌈 On 12/27/21, Oscar crossed the rainbow bridge to join his sister Tiki. Waiting with her were his kitty siblings Cassady, Shaolina, Booda and Chaps, and they all cheered when they saw him running without wheels for the first time.

Oscar had a bad seizure two weeks ago and spent three days in the ICU. Despite every imaginable care in the hospital and at home he continued to decline, and my beautiful, brave boy clearly couldn’t enjoy his life any longer. His veterinarian, Dr. Schaubhut, who was also one of his rescuers, came to him at home to set him free, and his momma @cmerry and I were there holding him.

There is a hole in my heart too large to measure. In his last days I kept telling him he was my hero. I’ve never known anyone, human or animal, who inspired me the way he did. I was in awe the moment I met him, and I still watch his videos in wonder, amazed at the spirit that never let his injury slow him down.

I seriously can’t imagine my life if I had never met him. So much of what means the most to me is only there because of where he led me. I know that many people have continued fighting for their disabled pets because of Oscar, and others adopted special needs pets after seeing or meeting him and wanting a hero of their own. Many of you have donated and helped other animals in need because of him, and spread so much awareness that special needs animals can live happy lives.

Please, always do that. Too many people still don’t know that an animal wants to live and experience joy, and they won’t give up if you don’t give up on them. If you ever know someone who’s ready to quit, please tell them you knew a boy named Oscar, who was abandoned on the street with a broken back, and with a lot of love, he spent the next ten years as the happiest boy in the world.

🌈 On 12/27/21, Oscar crossed the rainbow bridge to join his sister Tiki. Waiting with her were his kitty siblings Cassady, Shaolina, Booda and Chaps, and they all cheered when they saw him running without wheels for the first time.

Oscar had a bad seizure two weeks ago and spent three days in the ICU. Despite every imaginable care in the hospital and at home he continued to decline, and my beautiful, brave boy clearly couldn’t enjoy his life any longer. His veterinarian, Dr. Schaubhut, who was also one of his rescuers, came to him at home to set him free, and his momma @cmerry and I were there holding him.

There is a hole in my heart too large to measure. In his last days I kept telling him he was my hero. I’ve never known anyone, human or animal, who inspired me the way he did. I was in awe the moment I met him, and I still watch his videos in wonder, amazed at the spirit that never let his injury slow him down.

I seriously can’t imagine my life if I had never met him. So much of what means the most to me is only there because of where he led me. I know that many people have continued fighting for their disabled pets because of Oscar, and others adopted special needs pets after seeing or meeting him and wanting a hero of their own. Many of you have donated and helped other animals in need because of him, and spread so much awareness that special needs animals can live happy lives.

Please, always do that. Too many people still don’t know that an animal wants to live and experience joy, and they won’t give up if you don’t give up on them. If you ever know someone who’s ready to quit, please tell them you knew a boy named Oscar, who was abandoned on the street with a broken back, and with a lot of love, he spent the next ten years as the happiest boy in the world.

🌈 On 12/27/21, Oscar crossed the rainbow bridge to join his sister Tiki. Waiting with her were his kitty siblings Cassady, Shaolina, Booda and Chaps, and they all cheered when they saw him running without wheels for the first time.

Oscar had a bad seizure two weeks ago and spent three days in the ICU. Despite every imaginable care in the hospital and at home he continued to decline, and my beautiful, brave boy clearly couldn’t enjoy his life any longer. His veterinarian, Dr. Schaubhut, who was also one of his rescuers, came to him at home to set him free, and his momma @cmerry and I were there holding him.

There is a hole in my heart too large to measure. In his last days I kept telling him he was my hero. I’ve never known anyone, human or animal, who inspired me the way he did. I was in awe the moment I met him, and I still watch his videos in wonder, amazed at the spirit that never let his injury slow him down.

I seriously can’t imagine my life if I had never met him. So much of what means the most to me is only there because of where he led me. I know that many people have continued fighting for their disabled pets because of Oscar, and others adopted special needs pets after seeing or meeting him and wanting a hero of their own. Many of you have donated and helped other animals in need because of him, and spread so much awareness that special needs animals can live happy lives.

Please, always do that. Too many people still don’t know that an animal wants to live and experience joy, and they won’t give up if you don’t give up on them. If you ever know someone who’s ready to quit, please tell them you knew a boy named Oscar, who was abandoned on the street with a broken back, and with a lot of love, he spent the next ten years as the happiest boy in the world.

🌈 On 12/27/21, Oscar crossed the rainbow bridge to join his sister Tiki. Waiting with her were his kitty siblings Cassady, Shaolina, Booda and Chaps, and they all cheered when they saw him running without wheels for the first time.

Oscar had a bad seizure two weeks ago and spent three days in the ICU. Despite every imaginable care in the hospital and at home he continued to decline, and my beautiful, brave boy clearly couldn’t enjoy his life any longer. His veterinarian, Dr. Schaubhut, who was also one of his rescuers, came to him at home to set him free, and his momma @cmerry and I were there holding him.

There is a hole in my heart too large to measure. In his last days I kept telling him he was my hero. I’ve never known anyone, human or animal, who inspired me the way he did. I was in awe the moment I met him, and I still watch his videos in wonder, amazed at the spirit that never let his injury slow him down.

I seriously can’t imagine my life if I had never met him. So much of what means the most to me is only there because of where he led me. I know that many people have continued fighting for their disabled pets because of Oscar, and others adopted special needs pets after seeing or meeting him and wanting a hero of their own. Many of you have donated and helped other animals in need because of him, and spread so much awareness that special needs animals can live happy lives.

Please, always do that. Too many people still don’t know that an animal wants to live and experience joy, and they won’t give up if you don’t give up on them. If you ever know someone who’s ready to quit, please tell them you knew a boy named Oscar, who was abandoned on the street with a broken back, and with a lot of love, he spent the next ten years as the happiest boy in the world.

🌈 On 12/27/21, Oscar crossed the rainbow bridge to join his sister Tiki. Waiting with her were his kitty siblings Cassady, Shaolina, Booda and Chaps, and they all cheered when they saw him running without wheels for the first time.

Oscar had a bad seizure two weeks ago and spent three days in the ICU. Despite every imaginable care in the hospital and at home he continued to decline, and my beautiful, brave boy clearly couldn’t enjoy his life any longer. His veterinarian, Dr. Schaubhut, who was also one of his rescuers, came to him at home to set him free, and his momma @cmerry and I were there holding him.

There is a hole in my heart too large to measure. In his last days I kept telling him he was my hero. I’ve never known anyone, human or animal, who inspired me the way he did. I was in awe the moment I met him, and I still watch his videos in wonder, amazed at the spirit that never let his injury slow him down.

I seriously can’t imagine my life if I had never met him. So much of what means the most to me is only there because of where he led me. I know that many people have continued fighting for their disabled pets because of Oscar, and others adopted special needs pets after seeing or meeting him and wanting a hero of their own. Many of you have donated and helped other animals in need because of him, and spread so much awareness that special needs animals can live happy lives.

Please, always do that. Too many people still don’t know that an animal wants to live and experience joy, and they won’t give up if you don’t give up on them. If you ever know someone who’s ready to quit, please tell them you knew a boy named Oscar, who was abandoned on the street with a broken back, and with a lot of love, he spent the next ten years as the happiest boy in the world.

🌈 On 12/27/21, Oscar crossed the rainbow bridge to join his sister Tiki. Waiting with her were his kitty siblings Cassady, Shaolina, Booda and Chaps, and they all cheered when they saw him running without wheels for the first time.

Oscar had a bad seizure two weeks ago and spent three days in the ICU. Despite every imaginable care in the hospital and at home he continued to decline, and my beautiful, brave boy clearly couldn’t enjoy his life any longer. His veterinarian, Dr. Schaubhut, who was also one of his rescuers, came to him at home to set him free, and his momma @cmerry and I were there holding him.

There is a hole in my heart too large to measure. In his last days I kept telling him he was my hero. I’ve never known anyone, human or animal, who inspired me the way he did. I was in awe the moment I met him, and I still watch his videos in wonder, amazed at the spirit that never let his injury slow him down.

I seriously can’t imagine my life if I had never met him. So much of what means the most to me is only there because of where he led me. I know that many people have continued fighting for their disabled pets because of Oscar, and others adopted special needs pets after seeing or meeting him and wanting a hero of their own. Many of you have donated and helped other animals in need because of him, and spread so much awareness that special needs animals can live happy lives.

Please, always do that. Too many people still don’t know that an animal wants to live and experience joy, and they won’t give up if you don’t give up on them. If you ever know someone who’s ready to quit, please tell them you knew a boy named Oscar, who was abandoned on the street with a broken back, and with a lot of love, he spent the next ten years as the happiest boy in the world.

🌈 On 12/27/21, Oscar crossed the rainbow bridge to join his sister Tiki. Waiting with her were his kitty siblings Cassady, Shaolina, Booda and Chaps, and they all cheered when they saw him running without wheels for the first time.

Oscar had a bad seizure two weeks ago and spent three days in the ICU. Despite every imaginable care in the hospital and at home he continued to decline, and my beautiful, brave boy clearly couldn’t enjoy his life any longer. His veterinarian, Dr. Schaubhut, who was also one of his rescuers, came to him at home to set him free, and his momma @cmerry and I were there holding him.

There is a hole in my heart too large to measure. In his last days I kept telling him he was my hero. I’ve never known anyone, human or animal, who inspired me the way he did. I was in awe the moment I met him, and I still watch his videos in wonder, amazed at the spirit that never let his injury slow him down.

I seriously can’t imagine my life if I had never met him. So much of what means the most to me is only there because of where he led me. I know that many people have continued fighting for their disabled pets because of Oscar, and others adopted special needs pets after seeing or meeting him and wanting a hero of their own. Many of you have donated and helped other animals in need because of him, and spread so much awareness that special needs animals can live happy lives.

Please, always do that. Too many people still don’t know that an animal wants to live and experience joy, and they won’t give up if you don’t give up on them. If you ever know someone who’s ready to quit, please tell them you knew a boy named Oscar, who was abandoned on the street with a broken back, and with a lot of love, he spent the next ten years as the happiest boy in the world.

You've all been incredible and shown us so much love, but after fighting so hard and coming back so many times, Tiki crossed the rainbow bridge today. Two nights ago she hugged and cuddled us and and made it clear that she wasn't ready to go, but yesterday her red blood cell count dropped and she developed a fever and an elevated white blood cell count. Her wonderful doctor attempted a blood transfusion but she reacted badly to it, and despite receiving a broad spectrum antibiotic her infection never abated. She's had a number of rough patches and always recovered quickly enough to tell me it was worth going forward, but today it was clear that it was best for her to be at peace. Dr. Welter at @amcny gave her the most heartfelt kiss, and two nurses came to hear her stories of caring for her special brother and living her life with so much spirit and personality. Tiki and I loved each other from the moment we met, and it really felt like we'd known each other before. Every single day she seemed to express thanks to me for rescuing her. We only know that @inourhandsrescue saved her from a high-kill shelter in Kentucky 6 years ago. She was sweet and affectionate from day one, but showed many signs of abuse and neglect. Over time she became confident and secure and knew that we would always love her and protect her. She had a family and a home and a neighborhood and a rich, fun life. We didn't know her real age when we adopted her and she was probably older than we first guessed. She had a number of ailments but they never dampened her spirit. I'm in agony right now but I would do it all again in an instant. She was Daddy's girl from the first time she saw me and hit me in the tear ducts with her gorgeous smile. I'll love her and miss her every day for the rest of my life. Thank you, Tiki, for being the best girl a Poppa could ever hope for. Thank you all for loving her, too.

You've all been incredible and shown us so much love, but after fighting so hard and coming back so many times, Tiki crossed the rainbow bridge today. Two nights ago she hugged and cuddled us and and made it clear that she wasn't ready to go, but yesterday her red blood cell count dropped and she developed a fever and an elevated white blood cell count. Her wonderful doctor attempted a blood transfusion but she reacted badly to it, and despite receiving a broad spectrum antibiotic her infection never abated. She's had a number of rough patches and always recovered quickly enough to tell me it was worth going forward, but today it was clear that it was best for her to be at peace. Dr. Welter at @amcny gave her the most heartfelt kiss, and two nurses came to hear her stories of caring for her special brother and living her life with so much spirit and personality. Tiki and I loved each other from the moment we met, and it really felt like we'd known each other before. Every single day she seemed to express thanks to me for rescuing her. We only know that @inourhandsrescue saved her from a high-kill shelter in Kentucky 6 years ago. She was sweet and affectionate from day one, but showed many signs of abuse and neglect. Over time she became confident and secure and knew that we would always love her and protect her. She had a family and a home and a neighborhood and a rich, fun life. We didn't know her real age when we adopted her and she was probably older than we first guessed. She had a number of ailments but they never dampened her spirit. I'm in agony right now but I would do it all again in an instant. She was Daddy's girl from the first time she saw me and hit me in the tear ducts with her gorgeous smile. I'll love her and miss her every day for the rest of my life. Thank you, Tiki, for being the best girl a Poppa could ever hope for. Thank you all for loving her, too.

You've all been incredible and shown us so much love, but after fighting so hard and coming back so many times, Tiki crossed the rainbow bridge today. Two nights ago she hugged and cuddled us and and made it clear that she wasn't ready to go, but yesterday her red blood cell count dropped and she developed a fever and an elevated white blood cell count. Her wonderful doctor attempted a blood transfusion but she reacted badly to it, and despite receiving a broad spectrum antibiotic her infection never abated. She's had a number of rough patches and always recovered quickly enough to tell me it was worth going forward, but today it was clear that it was best for her to be at peace. Dr. Welter at @amcny gave her the most heartfelt kiss, and two nurses came to hear her stories of caring for her special brother and living her life with so much spirit and personality. Tiki and I loved each other from the moment we met, and it really felt like we'd known each other before. Every single day she seemed to express thanks to me for rescuing her. We only know that @inourhandsrescue saved her from a high-kill shelter in Kentucky 6 years ago. She was sweet and affectionate from day one, but showed many signs of abuse and neglect. Over time she became confident and secure and knew that we would always love her and protect her. She had a family and a home and a neighborhood and a rich, fun life. We didn't know her real age when we adopted her and she was probably older than we first guessed. She had a number of ailments but they never dampened her spirit. I'm in agony right now but I would do it all again in an instant. She was Daddy's girl from the first time she saw me and hit me in the tear ducts with her gorgeous smile. I'll love her and miss her every day for the rest of my life. Thank you, Tiki, for being the best girl a Poppa could ever hope for. Thank you all for loving her, too.

You've all been incredible and shown us so much love, but after fighting so hard and coming back so many times, Tiki crossed the rainbow bridge today. Two nights ago she hugged and cuddled us and and made it clear that she wasn't ready to go, but yesterday her red blood cell count dropped and she developed a fever and an elevated white blood cell count. Her wonderful doctor attempted a blood transfusion but she reacted badly to it, and despite receiving a broad spectrum antibiotic her infection never abated. She's had a number of rough patches and always recovered quickly enough to tell me it was worth going forward, but today it was clear that it was best for her to be at peace. Dr. Welter at @amcny gave her the most heartfelt kiss, and two nurses came to hear her stories of caring for her special brother and living her life with so much spirit and personality. Tiki and I loved each other from the moment we met, and it really felt like we'd known each other before. Every single day she seemed to express thanks to me for rescuing her. We only know that @inourhandsrescue saved her from a high-kill shelter in Kentucky 6 years ago. She was sweet and affectionate from day one, but showed many signs of abuse and neglect. Over time she became confident and secure and knew that we would always love her and protect her. She had a family and a home and a neighborhood and a rich, fun life. We didn't know her real age when we adopted her and she was probably older than we first guessed. She had a number of ailments but they never dampened her spirit. I'm in agony right now but I would do it all again in an instant. She was Daddy's girl from the first time she saw me and hit me in the tear ducts with her gorgeous smile. I'll love her and miss her every day for the rest of my life. Thank you, Tiki, for being the best girl a Poppa could ever hope for. Thank you all for loving her, too.

You've all been incredible and shown us so much love, but after fighting so hard and coming back so many times, Tiki crossed the rainbow bridge today. Two nights ago she hugged and cuddled us and and made it clear that she wasn't ready to go, but yesterday her red blood cell count dropped and she developed a fever and an elevated white blood cell count. Her wonderful doctor attempted a blood transfusion but she reacted badly to it, and despite receiving a broad spectrum antibiotic her infection never abated. She's had a number of rough patches and always recovered quickly enough to tell me it was worth going forward, but today it was clear that it was best for her to be at peace. Dr. Welter at @amcny gave her the most heartfelt kiss, and two nurses came to hear her stories of caring for her special brother and living her life with so much spirit and personality. Tiki and I loved each other from the moment we met, and it really felt like we'd known each other before. Every single day she seemed to express thanks to me for rescuing her. We only know that @inourhandsrescue saved her from a high-kill shelter in Kentucky 6 years ago. She was sweet and affectionate from day one, but showed many signs of abuse and neglect. Over time she became confident and secure and knew that we would always love her and protect her. She had a family and a home and a neighborhood and a rich, fun life. We didn't know her real age when we adopted her and she was probably older than we first guessed. She had a number of ailments but they never dampened her spirit. I'm in agony right now but I would do it all again in an instant. She was Daddy's girl from the first time she saw me and hit me in the tear ducts with her gorgeous smile. I'll love her and miss her every day for the rest of my life. Thank you, Tiki, for being the best girl a Poppa could ever hope for. Thank you all for loving her, too.

You've all been incredible and shown us so much love, but after fighting so hard and coming back so many times, Tiki crossed the rainbow bridge today. Two nights ago she hugged and cuddled us and and made it clear that she wasn't ready to go, but yesterday her red blood cell count dropped and she developed a fever and an elevated white blood cell count. Her wonderful doctor attempted a blood transfusion but she reacted badly to it, and despite receiving a broad spectrum antibiotic her infection never abated. She's had a number of rough patches and always recovered quickly enough to tell me it was worth going forward, but today it was clear that it was best for her to be at peace. Dr. Welter at @amcny gave her the most heartfelt kiss, and two nurses came to hear her stories of caring for her special brother and living her life with so much spirit and personality. Tiki and I loved each other from the moment we met, and it really felt like we'd known each other before. Every single day she seemed to express thanks to me for rescuing her. We only know that @inourhandsrescue saved her from a high-kill shelter in Kentucky 6 years ago. She was sweet and affectionate from day one, but showed many signs of abuse and neglect. Over time she became confident and secure and knew that we would always love her and protect her. She had a family and a home and a neighborhood and a rich, fun life. We didn't know her real age when we adopted her and she was probably older than we first guessed. She had a number of ailments but they never dampened her spirit. I'm in agony right now but I would do it all again in an instant. She was Daddy's girl from the first time she saw me and hit me in the tear ducts with her gorgeous smile. I'll love her and miss her every day for the rest of my life. Thank you, Tiki, for being the best girl a Poppa could ever hope for. Thank you all for loving her, too.

You've all been incredible and shown us so much love, but after fighting so hard and coming back so many times, Tiki crossed the rainbow bridge today. Two nights ago she hugged and cuddled us and and made it clear that she wasn't ready to go, but yesterday her red blood cell count dropped and she developed a fever and an elevated white blood cell count. Her wonderful doctor attempted a blood transfusion but she reacted badly to it, and despite receiving a broad spectrum antibiotic her infection never abated. She's had a number of rough patches and always recovered quickly enough to tell me it was worth going forward, but today it was clear that it was best for her to be at peace. Dr. Welter at @amcny gave her the most heartfelt kiss, and two nurses came to hear her stories of caring for her special brother and living her life with so much spirit and personality. Tiki and I loved each other from the moment we met, and it really felt like we'd known each other before. Every single day she seemed to express thanks to me for rescuing her. We only know that @inourhandsrescue saved her from a high-kill shelter in Kentucky 6 years ago. She was sweet and affectionate from day one, but showed many signs of abuse and neglect. Over time she became confident and secure and knew that we would always love her and protect her. She had a family and a home and a neighborhood and a rich, fun life. We didn't know her real age when we adopted her and she was probably older than we first guessed. She had a number of ailments but they never dampened her spirit. I'm in agony right now but I would do it all again in an instant. She was Daddy's girl from the first time she saw me and hit me in the tear ducts with her gorgeous smile. I'll love her and miss her every day for the rest of my life. Thank you, Tiki, for being the best girl a Poppa could ever hope for. Thank you all for loving her, too.

You've all been incredible and shown us so much love, but after fighting so hard and coming back so many times, Tiki crossed the rainbow bridge today. Two nights ago she hugged and cuddled us and and made it clear that she wasn't ready to go, but yesterday her red blood cell count dropped and she developed a fever and an elevated white blood cell count. Her wonderful doctor attempted a blood transfusion but she reacted badly to it, and despite receiving a broad spectrum antibiotic her infection never abated. She's had a number of rough patches and always recovered quickly enough to tell me it was worth going forward, but today it was clear that it was best for her to be at peace. Dr. Welter at @amcny gave her the most heartfelt kiss, and two nurses came to hear her stories of caring for her special brother and living her life with so much spirit and personality. Tiki and I loved each other from the moment we met, and it really felt like we'd known each other before. Every single day she seemed to express thanks to me for rescuing her. We only know that @inourhandsrescue saved her from a high-kill shelter in Kentucky 6 years ago. She was sweet and affectionate from day one, but showed many signs of abuse and neglect. Over time she became confident and secure and knew that we would always love her and protect her. She had a family and a home and a neighborhood and a rich, fun life. We didn't know her real age when we adopted her and she was probably older than we first guessed. She had a number of ailments but they never dampened her spirit. I'm in agony right now but I would do it all again in an instant. She was Daddy's girl from the first time she saw me and hit me in the tear ducts with her gorgeous smile. I'll love her and miss her every day for the rest of my life. Thank you, Tiki, for being the best girl a Poppa could ever hope for. Thank you all for loving her, too.

You've all been incredible and shown us so much love, but after fighting so hard and coming back so many times, Tiki crossed the rainbow bridge today. Two nights ago she hugged and cuddled us and and made it clear that she wasn't ready to go, but yesterday her red blood cell count dropped and she developed a fever and an elevated white blood cell count. Her wonderful doctor attempted a blood transfusion but she reacted badly to it, and despite receiving a broad spectrum antibiotic her infection never abated. She's had a number of rough patches and always recovered quickly enough to tell me it was worth going forward, but today it was clear that it was best for her to be at peace. Dr. Welter at @amcny gave her the most heartfelt kiss, and two nurses came to hear her stories of caring for her special brother and living her life with so much spirit and personality. Tiki and I loved each other from the moment we met, and it really felt like we'd known each other before. Every single day she seemed to express thanks to me for rescuing her. We only know that @inourhandsrescue saved her from a high-kill shelter in Kentucky 6 years ago. She was sweet and affectionate from day one, but showed many signs of abuse and neglect. Over time she became confident and secure and knew that we would always love her and protect her. She had a family and a home and a neighborhood and a rich, fun life. We didn't know her real age when we adopted her and she was probably older than we first guessed. She had a number of ailments but they never dampened her spirit. I'm in agony right now but I would do it all again in an instant. She was Daddy's girl from the first time she saw me and hit me in the tear ducts with her gorgeous smile. I'll love her and miss her every day for the rest of my life. Thank you, Tiki, for being the best girl a Poppa could ever hope for. Thank you all for loving her, too.

You've all been incredible and shown us so much love, but after fighting so hard and coming back so many times, Tiki crossed the rainbow bridge today. Two nights ago she hugged and cuddled us and and made it clear that she wasn't ready to go, but yesterday her red blood cell count dropped and she developed a fever and an elevated white blood cell count. Her wonderful doctor attempted a blood transfusion but she reacted badly to it, and despite receiving a broad spectrum antibiotic her infection never abated. She's had a number of rough patches and always recovered quickly enough to tell me it was worth going forward, but today it was clear that it was best for her to be at peace. Dr. Welter at @amcny gave her the most heartfelt kiss, and two nurses came to hear her stories of caring for her special brother and living her life with so much spirit and personality. Tiki and I loved each other from the moment we met, and it really felt like we'd known each other before. Every single day she seemed to express thanks to me for rescuing her. We only know that @inourhandsrescue saved her from a high-kill shelter in Kentucky 6 years ago. She was sweet and affectionate from day one, but showed many signs of abuse and neglect. Over time she became confident and secure and knew that we would always love her and protect her. She had a family and a home and a neighborhood and a rich, fun life. We didn't know her real age when we adopted her and she was probably older than we first guessed. She had a number of ailments but they never dampened her spirit. I'm in agony right now but I would do it all again in an instant. She was Daddy's girl from the first time she saw me and hit me in the tear ducts with her gorgeous smile. I'll love her and miss her every day for the rest of my life. Thank you, Tiki, for being the best girl a Poppa could ever hope for. Thank you all for loving her, too.

Happy Gotcha Day, little buddy 🎂❤️ Four years ago I picked up Leonard from Lancaster County Animal Shelter where he wasn’t receiving any attention and time was running out. I didn’t yet know that he’d be mine but I probably should have 🙂 The first video was made by @voicesforcarolina_animals Simply put, there would be no more Leonard without them. I can never thank them enough ❤️♾️ Our very first experience together was a 15-hour car ride back to New York. I absolutely won the jackpot with my guy.

#adoptdontshop
#leonardlovesnewyork
#gotchaday

Everyone in rescue sees endless sad stories every day. This is a simple, happy one. Leonard and I met @nycscr alum Cher on her walk this morning. Her mom, who couldn’t have been sweeter, said she’d been their longest resident when she adopted her in October of 2022. Now she’s living her best life and feeling loved every day. Here’s to happy endings ❤️🐶

#adoptdontshop
#borntobeloved
#happyendings

Maximum heartbreaking cuteness from Shea @nycscr!! I transported her from one vet to another but thankfully she’s doing so well! She had a very rough start in life, but you can make sure the rest of her days are happy and full of love by applying to to adopt her at: https://www.wagtopia.com/search/pet?id=2694918&name=Shea

@nycscr says: Shea’s story is one we wish we could rewrite, but what matters now is the beautiful future ahead of her. This sweet puppy was found on the side of the road in North Carolina, after hit by a car, in such poor condition that she couldn’t even walk. Despite everything she’s been through, Shea’s spirit has never dimmed.

She is gentle, loving, and so deserving of a home where she will never be abandoned again. With each passing day, Shea is showing us just how resilient and full of love she truly is.

Now all she needs is a family to show her what it truly means to be safe, cherished, and home.

Could that be you?

#adoptdontshop #becausetheymatter #adoptapuppy

3/1/15

This is Candygram @nycscr, and she sent a message straight to my heart. I can’t imagine a more fun, playful, affectionate girl to raise up into a perfect family member. She not only makes you laugh with her puppy shenanigans, when she settles down she loves to cuddle! You can apply to adopt Candygram at: https://www.wagtopia.com/search/pet?id=2659447&name=Candygram+(p)

Oh, don’t mind me calling her Riley in the second vid. That’s her foster mom’s name 🤦🏻‍♂️

@nycscr says: Candygram is sweetness delivered straight to your heart.
This precious puppy was left behind in Alabama, abandoned and forgotten, as if her life didn’t matter. But Candygram had other plans ; she chose to survive. And now she’s here, safe, wagging her tail, and ready to send nothing but love to her forever family.
She’s playful, affectionate, and full of that irresistible puppy curiosity.
After such a heartbreaking start, she deserves a home that will treasure her every single day. Be the happy ending to her story.

#adoptdontshop
#adoptme

This is Crisanta @nycscr and despite being abused in North Carolina before being rescued from a shelter that couldn’t keep her safe, she is an absolute sweetheart. She loves the car and she’s super cuddly and affectionate. I could’ve sat there with her all day!! You can apply to adopt Crisanta at https://www.wagtopia.com/search/pet?id=2575310&name=Crisanta+

#adoptdontshop
#becausetheymatter

I stumbled upon a collection of links from Oscar’s appearance at the Tompkins Square Park Halloween Dog Parade in 2017. Man, he had so much fun. His mom @cmerry made his astronaut costume, featuring patches and pins that were gifted to us from actual NASA agencies. His pictures appeared worldwide, and we always hoped that his huge smile would encourage other people to never give up on their special needs pets. I love you, Oscar. I miss you, little buddy ❤️♾️

#adoptdontshop
#specialneedsdog
#nasa

Tonight I transported this beautiful little boy, Hemingway @nycscr, to his new foster home. Oh man, I just wanted to hug and pet this boy forever. He’s one of those pups that just needs to feel safe and stable to come out of his shell. Whoever’s lucky enough to adopt him will get to witness that and know that they did a little something good every day. Plus, they’ll have the softest coat and silkiest ears to pet. You can apply to adopt Hemingway here: https://nycsecondchancerescue.org/dog-adoption-application/

#adoptdontshop
#blackdogsrule

Dog smiles are my Kryptonite, and Freckles @nycscr has one that won’t quit!! He was lovable and sociable, and judging by the way his foster dad dotes on him, definitely the kind of guy you can fall head over heels for. His profile says “From the moment you meet him, it’s clear how Freckles got his name—his adorable speckled face is as unique as his heart is big! Rescued from a municipal shelter in North Carolina, Freckles is now looking for a forever home to call his own. This sweet and loving boy is incredibly friendly and has a gentle spirit that makes him a joy to be around.”

I can attest to all of that! You can apply to adopt Freckles at https://nycsecondchancerescue.org/dog-adoption-application

#adoptdontshop
#dogsmile
#becausetheymatter