Every month, the Paws Press eNewsletter provides updates on everything you need to know about the comings-and-goings at ARF. Sign up to receive inspiring animal stories, information about upcoming events, opportunities to help, and more! 

Lina’s Unusual Missing Fur

Lina, a sweet Siamese kitten, was found all by herself, with no littermates or mom in sight. Because she was alone, ARF’s team was asked to take her in and give her the socialization and care needed to grow up healthy.

One of ARF’s devoted and experienced cat volunteers, Suzanne, was immediately smitten and offered to foster this precious, affectionate kitten. Things were going well in the foster home, but one day, Suzanne noticed a small, unusual patch of missing fur on Lina’s elbow. 

She promptly brought Lina to our clinic. After the initial testing was inconclusive, our veterinarians took x-rays of her elbow and determined that she had a serious bone infection. Our team jumped into action – hoping it wasn’t too late to save Lina’s leg.

Thanks to our compassionate supporters, our veterinary team has the resources to work quickly and provide animals like Lina with critical, lifesaving medical attention. After three months of medication and regular x-rays to monitor her progress, Lina’s elbow joint healed, and she thankfully avoided amputation.

Supporters like you gave Lina the care she needed to save her leg. And our volunteer Suzanne fell so hard for Lina’s charm that she decided to adopt her and make her a purr-manent member of her family. Now Lina is surrounded by love and even has a feline sibling whom she adores. Your compassion gives many animals like Lina a second chance at prospering.

In celebration of GivingTuesday, the annual, worldwide day of giving on November 29, you can save twice as many homeless dogs and cats, like Lina, when you support ARF. Thanks to a generous donor, your gift today through GivingTuesday will be matched — up to $50,000.

Thank a Veteran

This Veterans Day, share your personal message of appreciation to Veterans like Lavonte, an Army Veteran who was matched with a psychiatric service dog-in-training through our Pets and Vets program.

The support of a service or emotional support animal can change the life of a Veteran who has PTSD, a traumatic brain injury, anxiety, or severe depression. Lavonte knew he would benefit from a psychiatric service dog. He found his perfect match in Baki — a Mastiff mix rescued from an overcrowded shelter for our Pets and Vets program. Since they began training, Baki has greatly enriched Lavonte’s life. They go on hikes, go to the gym, and cherish being there for each other — Saving Both Ends of the Leash®.

After serving our country, Veterans can have difficulty readjusting to civilian life. In addition to working with their new service animals, your message of thanks can provide extra encouragement to Veterans who have given so much. Messages will be prominently displayed in our Engelstad Pets and Vets Center.

More Updates

Shop for Holiday Gifts and Support ARF!

Find gifts that save lives for your furry-est friends, your family, and all your gift-giving needs! From our eBay store to Amazon to Pet Food Express to Lou Russa’s Boutique — you can find gifts for everyone on your list while supporting our lifesaving programs for animals and people!

Thanksgiving Holiday Safety Tips

Help your dog or cat enjoy a healthy Thanksgiving! Many foods on your holiday dinner plate — including garlic, onions, raisins, grapes, and chocolate — are toxic for your furry companions. Learn more about keeping the holidays as safe as they are fun.

Subaru Adoption Event

We’re teaming up with our friends at Diablo Subaru of Walnut Creek to waive all adoption fees on Wednesday, November 16. Adoptions are 12-6 pm, but the front doors open at 9 am for early sign-in and to preview animals. Don’t miss this perfect opportunity to find your fur-ever best friend!

IRA Rollover

If you are 70 ½ or older and love animals, you can use your IRA to reduce your taxable income while helping animals in need. Learn how your gift will give animals a second chance. 

Adopt Joyce

Joyce is a sun-kissed, 1-year-old cat who loves going on adventures in a kitty backpack and playing with wand toys! Learn more about Joyce, and the rest of our adoptable animals, on our website.

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