Category: Feature Stories

When a U.S. Air Force Sergeant deployed to the Middle East met a pregnant stray dog on base, he couldn’t turn away. The mama dog, desperate for food and water, found kindness and care from the Sergeant and his team of medics. They watched over her, providing nourishment and safety.

In the quiet moments between their duties, the team watched over the mother dog as she gave birth to six tiny, precious puppies. Without hesitation, they became caretakers, making sure the mom and her newborns had food, water, and a safe place to rest. The puppies’ father would occasionally visit the base. But heartbreak soon followed — locals who feared strays killed the father, and shortly after, the mother disappeared.

Despite their grief, the soldiers stepped up to care for the vulnerable pups. Among the litter, one curious pup, Sy, stood out. He clung to the Sergeant, following him around the base like a shadow, their bond growing stronger with each passing day.

As their deployment came to an end, the soldiers faced a heartbreaking realization — they couldn’t leave this newfound family behind. The Sergeant, deeply attached to Sy and another pup named Brendal, knew he had to bring them home. Each servicemember agreed to adopt one of the puppies, giving them the loving homes they deserved.

That’s when they reached out to us. Through our Patriot Pets program, we jumped in to help. We brought the dogs into our care, providing them with medical attention, vaccinations, food, and training to prepare them for their long journey to the United States. After completing all necessary tests and requirements, they finally boarded their flights to reunite with their soldiers.

Now, Sy and Brendal are home — curled up in the arms of the Sergeant who saved them. The rest of the litter is equally loved and cherished, living the lives they were always meant to have. 

Their journey wouldn’t have been possible without the generosity of our supporters, who help us answer the call every time a servicemember rescues an animal in need. Every month, we receive requests from soldiers who, even in war zones, can’t ignore an animal’s cry for help. The road to bringing these animals to safety is lengthy, expensive, and complex — but with your support, we can continue reuniting heroes with the animals who saved them.

Thank you for making miracles like Sy and Brendal’s homecoming possible.

Last month, SPCA International deployed a dedicated team to Los Angeles to lend a hand in the aftermath of the devastating wildfires that swept through Southern California. These fires not only destroyed homes and landscapes but also deeply impacted the lives of countless animals and their families. With a clear mission in mind—to provide essential aid to both animals and people of these disasters—our team partnered with local organizations on the ground to make a real difference.

We began our mission by working alongside EARS, a compassionate team providing emergency relief for those affected by the Palisades wildfire. We were able to distribute critical supplies to those who had lost everything. This included pet food, bedding, toys, cleaning products, and other essential items to make life a little easier for pets in need.

But our efforts didn’t stop there. We also assisted Operation Blankets of Love, a California-based rescue organization known for rushing life-saving supplies to those impacted by natural disasters. With their help, we delivered pet crates and carriers to ensure that displaced pets were safe and comfortable during transport. We also provided Operation Blankets of Love with lots of cat food so that they’re prepared to aid cat parents next time there’s a need.

Additionally, we joined forces with the Animal Advocacy Network to assist in search and rescue operations. This group has done incredible work, rescuing over 170 animals from the wildfires. Our team helped provide them with the tools they needed to continue their vital mission, including a generator and two-way radios to help them communicate while working in the fire zone.

As the fires spread, our team quickly responded when the Hughes wildfires broke out. We worked with The Gentle Barn, a local animal sanctuary that cares for over 100 animals. While the sanctuary fortunately remained untouched by the fires, we helped them prepare for evacuation just in case the flames came too close.

One of the most heartwarming moments of our week-long trip was helping Charlie Brown, a 7-year-old dog who had lost her home in the wildfires. Though Charlie Brown lost her home, our team was able to find her a loving foster home where she could rest and recover until she could be reunited with her owner.

Recognizing the ongoing impact of the wildfires, our team returned to California last week (February 7th and 8th) to provide even more support to those in need. Thanks to Amazon‘s generous donation of 400 lbs of essential pet supplies and Hill’s Pet Nutrition‘s contribution of 100 bags of dog and cat food, we were able to make a meaningful difference.

Partnering with Modern Animal, a veterinary company in Culver City, we hosted a two-day relief event, distributing much-needed essentials to families and their beloved pets.

Throughout our time in Southern California, we witnessed incredible acts of kindness and resilience. We met local rescuers, volunteers, and fire victims who, despite their own devastating losses, were selflessly offering their time and support to help others. Their determination to rebuild and help those in need, whether human or animal, left a deep impression on all of us.

While the immediate danger has passed, the rebuilding process will take time—and it will require the continued support of the broader community. Animal groups on the ground are still in need of help to provide ongoing care for animals affected by the fires. We urge you to consider donating to our Disaster Relief Fund to help these organizations rebuild and continue their vital work. Together, we can ensure that these resilient communities—and the animals they care for—receive the ongoing support they deserve.

Thank you for your compassion, your generosity, and for standing by us in the face of disaster. Together, we can make a lasting difference.

Donate today to help us continue our work in Southern California and beyond.

This year, SPCA International is proud to announce that we have provided nearly $165,000 in grants to our incredible shelter partners worldwide to support their spay and neuter efforts. Thanks to these funds, more than 9,700 animals will be sterilized, making a significant impact on humanely managing stray animal populations and improving the quality of life for both animals and their communities.

Sterilization efforts will take place around the world, including in the United States, Australia, Tanzania, Peru, Mozambique, Venezuela and Ukraine. Each of these campaigns is tailored to meet the unique challenges faced by local animal populations, addressing issues such as overpopulation, limited access to veterinary care and community education.

Why Spay & Neuter Matters

Uncontrolled breeding can lead to overpopulation, which often results in countless animals living on the streets, struggling to find food, and facing illness or injury. This leads to overcrowded shelters and forces local governments to resort to ineffective population control methods, often resulting in inhumane killings.

Spaying and neutering programs are crucial to breaking this cycle. These procedures not only prevent unwanted litters but also improve overall animal health, reducing the risk of certain cancers, infections, and behavioral issues. Beyond individual benefits, spaying and neutering play a critical role in public health by curbing the spread of zoonotic diseases, minimizing aggressive behaviors that can lead to attacks, and reducing the number of stray animals, which helps protect both them and the communities they live in.

How You Can Help

Want to make a difference? Spay and neuter your pets, support local animal shelters, and consider donating to SPCA International so that we can continue to fund lifesaving programs around the globe. Every action, no matter how small, contributes to a brighter future for animals everywhere.

This Spay & Neuter Month, let’s celebrate the progress we’ve made while recommitting ourselves to the work that still lies ahead. Together, we can change the lives of animals and the communities they call home—one spay or neuter at a time.

At SPCA International, we know partnerships can change lives. Our work with Farm & Yard is a perfect example. Since the summer of 2024, Farm & Yard, a pet products company dedicated to animal welfare, has supported our PAWsitive Recovery program, which helps individuals and their pets overcome challenges such as addiction, mental health struggles, and domestic abuse to achieve a fresh start. Their generosity has become a big part of how we help both pets and their owners heal.

Since our partnership began, Farm & Yard has donated over 3,000 pounds of dog food, making a huge difference for animals and the people in our PAWsitive Recovery foster network. With their help, pets are well-fed and cared for, giving their owners peace of mind as they focus on healing. This support is a lifeline for people overcoming addiction, escaping domestic violence, or navigating other challenging circumstances.

But Farm & Yard’s generosity doesn’t stop there. This past holiday season, their donations helped us reach even more people and pets in Denver, Colorado. Thanks to Farm & Yard, we provided dog food to low-income families and pet owners experiencing homelessness, making the holidays a little brighter for those in need and their beloved pets.

SPCA International’s PAWsitive Recovery program offers temporary foster care for pets while their owners get treatment, animal-focused workshops, and therapy with animals at treatment centers and shelters. This program helps heal the wounds of addiction, trauma, and abuse—for both people and their pets. Farm & Yard’s support makes this work possible, giving us the tools to help those who need it most.

We’re so thankful to Farm & Yard for their kindness and dedication to helping animals and those who love them. Together, we’re showing that teamwork, care, and compassion can create a brighter future for everyone. Thank you, Farm & Yard, for making a difference—one paw at a time.

Balto and Nanouk’s journey began in the chaos and peril of war-torn Ukraine. As vulnerable puppies, they were rescued and given a second chance at life at Sava’s Safe Haven in Romania, a trusted shelter partner of SPCA International.

Cherished by everyone at Sava’s Safe Haven, Balto and Nanouk grew into gentle, loving dogs. However, their large size made it hard for them to find forever homes in Romania or elsewhere in Europe, leaving these pups to spend most of their lives at the shelter.

When our SPCA International team visited Romania last year, we couldn’t help but be drawn to Balto and Nanouk. Despite all they had been through, they were resilient, kind, and so full of love. We knew we had to help them get the happy ending they deserved.

After months of planning, the day finally arrived. Earlier this month, Balto and Nanouk began their life-changing journey from Romania to Canada. It was a bittersweet goodbye for the Sava’s Safe Haven team, who had cared for them for so long, but they knew it was time for these brothers to move on to a brighter future.

When they landed in Canada, the SPCA International team greeted Balto and Nanouk with open arms. The reunion was heartwarming, filled with love, cuddles, and plenty of treats. These two brave dogs, who have come so far from the war-torn streets of Ukraine, are now ready to take the next step toward finding their forever families.

Balto and Nanouk are now settling in with their foster families in Canada. They are adjusting to the comforts of a safe, loving environment. Their foster families say both dogs are incredibly affectionate, gentle, and eager to please. While they’re still looking for their forever homes, we have no doubt their loving personalities will win over the hearts of their future families.

We are so grateful to Sava’s Safe Haven for their dedication to Balto and Nanouk. Their compassion has been remarkable, from rescuing them during the war to providing them with years of care and shelter. This story shows what’s possible when organizations and people unite to make a difference.

We can’t wait to see what the future holds for these special pups. If you or someone you know is looking to welcome a loving, new furry member into their family, Balto and Nanouk could be the perfect fit. 

Interested in adopting Balto or Nanouk? Please email us at [email protected]

There’s nothing quite like the bond between a person and their beloved animal. This holiday season, we’re thrilled to share that, thanks to the incredible generosity of supporters like you, we’ve recently reunited over 30 amazing cats and dogs with their loving families.

Welcome These Patriot Pets Home!

Through our Patriot Pets program, which helps soldiers bring home the stray animals they rescued during deployment, we recently transported a group of cats and dogs from the Middle East to New York City. From there, they traveled to their final destinations across the country. These Patriot Pets are now safe, loved, and back in the arms of their soldiers—where they belong. And they’re just a few of the lucky ones!

PAWsitive Reunions!

Through our PAWsitive Recovery program, we’ve reunited pets back to individuals who have overcome addiction or escaped domestic violence and are rebuilding their lives. Each reunion is uniquely special, and we couldn’t be more excited to share some heartwarming stories with you. Truly, there’s no better way to celebrate the holiday season than with these joyful moments of love and hope!

In early October, our SPCA International team traveled to Romania, a country that has seen an inspiring transformation in animal welfare. Just over a decade ago, Romania faced a tragic crisis with its stray dog population. In 2013, the government enacted a law that led to the mass culling of stray dogs, resulting in the loss of hundreds of thousands of animals. Today, however, Romania is on a compassionate journey of change, thanks to the hard work of dedicated citizens, advocates, and animal welfare organizations.

Our journey began in the small village of Branistea at Sava’s Safe Haven, an SPCA International partner since 2016. Alongside the local animal police, we held an animal welfare workshop at a nearby school. Watching the eager students learn about animal rights and kindness was incredibly heartwarming and left us hopeful for a future where all animals are treated with compassion.

Sava’s Safe Haven cares for over 200 dogs, each with a touching story. We were especially moved by Balto and Nanouk, two puppies rescued from the war in Ukraine. These sweet pups have endured so much yet are still full of love. We’re excited to help bring them to North America, where they’ll find the forever homes they deserve.

Throughout our visit, we were involved in several rescues, including treating two frail puppies with parvo and helping a dog injured in a car accident. We’re thrilled to share that all three are doing well now!

We also spent time with Dog Rescue Romania, our partner of ten years, pulling dogs from municipal shelters to give them a second chance. These dogs who would not have survived if they stayed at the local shelter, are now being cared for by our dedicated partners and we are hopeful that we will soon be able to find them loving, forever homes.

During our trip, we also met with Romania Animal Rescue, a new Shelter Support partner for 2024, who hosted a large spay/neuter clinic to help humanely manage the dog population. We also visited the Sache Foundation, where SPCA International has supported a recovery room in their veterinary hospital for animals of low-income families, providing much-needed care for the community.

Today, Romania’s animal welfare laws require pet owners to spay and neuter their animals, a huge step toward reducing stray populations. The compassion we witnessed throughout Romania gives us hope that this positive change will continue, and we’re honored to support these remarkable rescue partners leading the way to a better future for Romania’s animals.

On November 15, animal lovers, advocates, and organizations came together at Pershing Square Plaza in New York City for a powerful day of action. Rally for Life: Save Turkey’s Stray Dogs, organized by our team at SPCA International in partnership with Haydiko (our partner from Turkey), Korean K9 Rescue, and Stray Dog Support, united a compassionate community dedicated to saving innocent stray dogs.

In Turkey, a heartbreaking new law has led to the brutal killing of countless stray dogs in response to the country’s growing stray population. Many of these dogs are healthy, friendly, and full of love—they deserve compassion and humane treatment, not cruelty.

Rally for Life

The rally kicked off in Pershing Square with moving speeches from SPCA International’s Director of Programs, Lori Kalef, and our partners. Their words energized the crowd and underscored the urgency of the crisis. From there, we marched to the Turkish Consulate, holding a peaceful protest and demanding an end to the inhumane law.

Throughout the event, we connected with fellow New Yorkers, raising awareness about the plight of Turkey’s stray dogs. We gathered signatures for our petition and gained media attention to help amplify our mission. The day showed how powerful we can be when we come together for animals in need.

But the battle for change is far from over. These innocent lives still need us to be their voice. We need your help to spread the word about what’s happening in Turkey. 

We won’t stop fighting for these dogs until real change happens. Together, we can make a difference and bring hope to animals who deserve nothing less than compassion and safety.

Saving Lives in Turkey

Thanks to your support, Haydiko, our shelter partner in Turkey, has already saved over 100 dogs who were at high risk of being killed under this law. These dogs now have a second chance at life; many are waiting to find their forever homes. 

How You Can Help  

Let’s continue to stand together for the animals who cannot speak for themselves. Your voice, actions, and support truly make a difference.

Sign the petition: Add your voice to the growing demand for humane treatment.  

Donate: Your contributions enable our partners like Haydiko to rescue and care for dogs in urgent need. Every dollar makes a difference.  

Adopt: Give one of these deserving dogs a loving home.  

As 2024 comes to a close, we at SPCA International are taking a moment to celebrate everything we’ve achieved together this year—thanks to the generosity and commitment of donors like you. With your support, we’ve made a meaningful difference in the lives of animals and people around the globe, from providing emergency medical care to reuniting beloved pets with their families. None of this could have happened without the kindness and dedication of our supporters and our incredible local partners on the ground. Let’s take a look at all that we’ve accomplished this year!

Reuniting Military Families with Their Pets

Through our Patriot Pets program, we proudly reunited 87 military members and their cherished pets, bringing comfort and joy to those who serve our country. Each reunion is a reminder of the special bond between our servicemembers and their animals, and we’re so grateful for the opportunity to help keep these families together.

Bringing Refugee Families Back Together

The heartbreak of leaving a beloved pet behind is unimaginable, especially for those fleeing crises. Through our Refugee Aid program, we helped refugees from Venezuela, Sudan, Afghanistan, and Palestine reunite with their beloved pets, providing much-needed relief to these families during their journey to safety.

Strengthening Shelters Worldwide

Your donations helped fund grants for 112 shelters across 49 countries, empowering them to provide emergency medical care, food, shelter improvements, and transport for animals in their care. From rural communities to major cities, these shelters work tirelessly to protect animals, and your support has helped them go even further this year.

Millions of Veterinary Supplies Delivered

In 2024, we delivered over 10 million dollars’ worth of veterinary supplies to shelters and rescue organizations in the areas most in need. From vaccines and surgical equipment to everyday medical supplies, these donations have made a huge difference, especially in regions with limited access to veterinary care.

Sterilizing the Stray Population

Thanks to you, we spayed and neutered over 18,000 animals this year, helping prevent unwanted litters and reducing the number of animals struggling on the streets. Every sterilization brings us closer to a future where fewer animals face homelessness.

Standing with Animals in Crisis 

This year, we also responded to several critical situations around the world. Here are just a few of the major rescues and emergency deployments you made possible:

Morocco: We rescued 10 horses from severe abuse and neglect, ensuring they received the care and compassion they deserve.

Brazil: When catastrophic floods hit, we quickly deployed emergency aid and rescue support to save animals affected by the disaster.

Hurricane Helene in North Carolina: As communities faced devastation, we rushed to provide emergency relief for animals impacted by this powerful storm.

Ukraine: We funded a mobile veterinary clinic to care for animals affected by the ongoing war, providing vital resources to our partners on the frontlines.

Turkey: We stood alongside advocates for the welfare of stray dogs, campaigning for humane treatment and better living conditions.

Supporting People in Crisis

This year, we also extended our support to people escaping domestic abuse or battling addiction by providing foster care for their pets through our PAWsitive Recovery program. Through your generosity, we’ve kept pets safe and loved while their owners rebuild their lives and find their path forward.

Looking to the Future

This incredible year wouldn’t have been possible without you, our donors, and the extraordinary local partners working daily to bring hope to animals in need. Together, we’ve made a lasting impact on the lives of animals and people worldwide.

From all of us at SPCA International, thank you for believing in this mission and being part of a global family that cares deeply for animals. Here’s to another year of compassion, resilience, and lifesaving work—together!

Treat your furry friends and their fabulous humans to gifts that’ll make tails wag and hearts melt! From playful toys and training treats to snuggly hideaways, we’ve got something for every pet and pet-lover on your list. 

Abandoned: Chronicling the Journeys of Once-Forsaken Dogs

This coffee table book is filled with beautiful photographs of rescue dogs, many of whom have found their way to forever homes. This heartwarming gift supports SPCA International’s work and celebrates the resilience and beauty of these animals.

Farm & Yard CozyCube Insulated Dog House

Keep outdoor-loving pups snug with this insulated dog house, designed to keep the cold out and the warmth in. Built tough, this is the perfect spot for dogs who enjoy fresh air all winter long while staying cozy in their own little space.

FurMe Dog & Cat Grooming Vacuum Kit

Say goodbye to shedding! The FurMe grooming vacuum kit collects hair while you brush, keeping pets fresh and floors fluff-free. Perfect for pets who love a little extra pampering (and owners who love a little less cleaning).

Goody Box Puppy Toys, Treats & Potty Training

Got a new puppy? This Goody Box has everything you need to keep them happy (and occupied) with treats, toys, and potty training essentials. It’s the ideal starter kit for puppies still learning the ropes.

Taleology Custom Pet Portrait Keychain

This thoughtful gift is perfect for pet parents who want to carry their furry best friends close to their heart (and keys)! Each wooden keychain features a custom hand-drawn pet illustration, making it a stylish and sentimental keepsake. It’s a beautiful way to celebrate their special bond, no matter where they go.

BARK Season’s Sweetings Advent Calendar for Dogs

Bring on the holiday spirit with this adorable advent calendar! Your dog will get a special treat each day, making December the best month ever. Watch their excitement build as they sniff out every new surprise!

NOVKIN LED Dog Collar

Light up those nighttime walks with this rechargeable LED collar, which keeps dogs safe and visible after dark. It’s waterproof, adjustable, and reusable—a little extra glow perfect for every dog, big or small.

Halinfer Space Capsule Cat Backpack

For the adventurous cat parent, this futuristic backpack makes outings with a kitty stylish and fun! The bubble window lets cats take in the view while feeling safe and secure inside. It’s ideal for hikes, trips to the vet, or just a stroll around town, adding a whole new way for cats to explore the world with their humans.

Piggy Poo and Crew Colorful Activity Snuffle Matt

This snuffle mat offers fun, foraging, and enrichment for sniffers of all skill levels. Hide treats within the folds for a mental challenge that’s also highly snackable—just watch them sniff, snort, and celebrate every tasty find!

Outward Hound Hide A Squirrel Plush Dog Toy Puzzle

Does your dog like chasing squirrels? Now they can do it indoors! This toy puzzle hides adorable plush squirrels inside a tree trunk, letting dogs dig them out for endless play. It’s soft, squeaky, and adorable to watch!

Dog Casino Treat Puzzle, Level 3

The Dog Casino is the ultimate puzzle toy for expert problem-solvers! Hide treats in its sliding compartments and drawers to encourage your pup to think, paw, and work for their reward. It’s a brain-teasing challenge guaranteed to keep your dog engaged and entertained.