Minnow arrived in a pitiful state; weighing less than 15 lbs, shivering in the February chill, with matted fur and covered in filth so pungent, you could smell her before you even saw her.

Immediately, we treated Minnow to a makeover. After a warm bath, nail trim and fresh haircut, the beautiful little soul beneath the grime emerged like royalty.  

Already 10 years old, and a stray for who knows how long, Minnow desperately needed some medical care too. Her initial check-up revealed some pretty severe dental disease and heartworm. So she was off to foster to recover from dental extractions and receive heartworm treatment.

Before they knew it, Minnow’s fosters fell absolutely in love with her loving spirit. They finalized the adoption but kept her original name, always telling her that she was “just the best catch!”

Her new family afforded her a life of such regal dignity, it made up for the misery she experienced as a stray. She played with her canine siblings in an enclosed yard, had hand-prepared meals to accommodate her lack of teeth, and every night before bed she danced with excitement as her soft linens—Egyptian cotton—were prepared for her. Finally safe, wrapped in the comfort she deserved all along.

When you bring a senior dog home, you know it may not be for very long. Tragically, for Minnow and her family, her time with them was far too short. One night, Minnow became gravely ill. It came on so quickly and strongly, all the vet could do was provide her a peaceful passing, her beloved adopters with her until the very end. 

We will never know the suffering Minnow endured before she reached us. But we do know this: Minnow was loved from the moment she entered our shelter and every day after.

Her story is devastating, but it’s also a powerful reminder that every moment counts. Every bit of care, support, and kindness—no matter how small—means the world to an animal who is used to neglect, hunger, and fear. 

And every donation, no matter the size, makes these moments possible.