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The Breeder Dogs’ Journey

The comforts of a warm bed and a kind touch. The simplest dignity of having your own name.

The 65 dogs we rescued from a breeder had been denied all of this and so much more.

When these neglected dogs arrived at Helping Strays, they cowered in fear when we extended a gentle hand. With fur so matted it pulled painfully at their skin, their terrified eyes darted at every sound.

Their trembling bodies told us everything — they didn’t know what it meant to feel safe or loved.  These dogs were broken, both physically and emotionally.

But we refused to give up on them.  

Our Helping Strays team worked tirelessly, shaving off painful mats, providing medical care (almost every one of them was heartworm positive,) and showing them, slowly but surely, that humans can be kind. 

It has been a long, difficult journey, but we eventually began to see glimpses of hope: a wagging tail here, a hesitant nuzzle there.  Now, these dogs have begun to learn what it means to be loved. 

But we can’t do this alone.  The cost of care has been overwhelming. From medical treatment, nourishing food, and grooming, every step of their recovery is expensive. And with so many lives depending on us, we need your help.

Your donation can turn their fear into trust, their pain into joy, and their isolation into a life filled with love.

These dogs have endured so much. Together, we can give them the future they deserve.  Because of donations from you, dogs like Nick, Buttercup, & Blossom have a safe place to stay, caring hands to feed them, and kind people to walk beside them until they find the family they have been waiting for. 

Make a gift to help more animals.

$0

Provides 1 dog

a month of preventatives

$0

Provides a spay/neuter

for one dog

$0

Covers heartworm treatment

for one 50# dog

$0

Sponsors two

adoption fees

$0

Covers heartworm treatments

for four animals

A Note From the Executive Director

At Helping Strays, our mission is to ensure that every animal finds a place where they, too, can feel love, safety, and belonging. We invite you to give the gift of a second chance. 

When you donate to Helping Strays, you give the greatest gift of all to animals in need - the gift of a second chance at life and love.  Every adoption is not just the beginning of a new chapter for a rescued animal – it’s a transformative experience for the person welcoming them home. The bond between an adopter and their new pet is truly something special.

When you support Helping Strays, you’re helping us create these life-changing connections. Here’s what your generosity makes possible: 

  • New Beginnings for Animals: Each pet we rescue has a story, often one marked by hardship or abandonment. Your donation helps us provide the care, medical attention, and safe shelter they need to heal and find their forever family.
  • Healing for Adopters: For many, the joy of adopting a pet is a gift beyond measure. Whether it’s the comfort of a warm snuggle, the companionship of a new walking buddy, or simply the joy of making a difference, adopting a rescue animal often brings newfound purpose and happiness to the adopter’s life. 

As we reflect back on our 20 year history, it’s clear that none of this would be possible without friends like you. As you celebrate this holiday season and coming new year, please consider making a donation to help give more animals the gift of a second chance. 

Your gift today will provide food, medical care, and hope to those who need it most. Thank you for making a difference in the lives of animals and people alike.

With heartfelt gratitude, 

Trisha Hoagland
Executive Director
Helping Strays

Make a gift to help more animals.