In mid-January, a good Samaritan brought Penny, a slightly overweight, senior dachshund mix, to the shelter. Penny was very sick and in poor health, requiring hospitalization. Our dedicated veterinary medical staff made her comfortable with soft bedding. She was suffering from bloody diarrhea, lethargy, muscle wasting near her spine, and hardly being able to walk. Her swollen abdomen indicated that she needed the best care possible at AVHS. The staff provided her with tender, loving care during her stay at the shelter.  

Penny was estimated to be around 12 years old and became friendlier as her treatment progressed. She had bladder stones and required surgery, but first, she needed to be stabilized from the diarrhea. With fluids, medication, and a specially formulated urinary wet food, Penny's condition began to improve. She faced multiple health issues, including dental disease, aging, and a heart murmur.  

Fortunately, Penny had already been spayed, but she desperately needed surgery to remove the bladder stones. X-rays revealed that she had not just one but eight stones, each roughly the size of a cherry pit! This must have been quite painful for her. A skilled veterinarian successfully removed the stones, and Penny’s demeanor changed for the better. A foster home was found, and Penny started to recover and heal. The foster family fell in love with her and expressed a desire to adopt her when the time was right.  

Before her adoption, Penny needed dental work due to significant tartar buildup, periodontal disease, and several missing teeth. A collaboration with a local veterinary hospital allowed for complimentary dental care and cleaning. After the procedure, Penny returned to her foster home to continue the healing process. Thanks to the generosity of donors and the commitment of fosters, Penny received the care she desperately needed. She is expected to be adopted in early May and will enjoy a relaxing life as she ages.  

We are proud of the positive changes we create in the lives of animals like Penny, who need our help the most—every dollar counts, big or small. Your contribution can make a difference for these animals. GiveBIG to AVHS!  

It costs $885 to care & treat an animal before it gets adopted!

Because of your generosity and kindness, AVHS & NWSNC can feed, shelter, provide basic medical and dental care, and provide low-cost spay/neuter, dentistry, and wellness services to animals in need in our community!

• $15 provides enrichment toys or treats for shelter animals

• $100 provides nutritious formula, food, warming discs, bottles, and a scale to infant kittens and puppies growing up in foster care

• $250 supports the life of a senior dog and helps with their medications and special foods

• $500 supports animal lifesaving care for five dogs from underserved and overpopulated animal shelters

• $1000 provides for the cost of spay/neuter for five cats or dogs, reducing overpopulation and eliminating the risk of certain cancers