Category: Feature Stories

We’re thrilled to share that a flight date is now confirmed! At the end of the month, 70 lovable pups will bid farewell to the turmoil and violence in the West Bank, beginning their journey to a brighter future in the United States. Touching down at JFK Airport in New York City, our dedicated team will greet them with open arms and plenty of treats. After being rechecked by our stateside veterinary team and a period of decompression, some will be picked up by local shelter partners and head to foster homes, while others will embark on the final leg of their journey to rescue partners across the country. We are excited to give these pups the amazing lives they deserve finally. Thank you for your unwavering support and for making this rescue mission a reality!

A Big THANK YOU to Fly Alliance!

From the beginning, we knew flying so many dogs to the United States would be expensive, but we simply could not turn our backs on these animals in need. Despite the tremendous support from our dedicated followers, there came a point in our planning where we realized we couldn’t fully cover the flight expenses. Determined to make this mission a reality, we reached out to every contact we had, appealing to individuals and companies alike. That’s when we connected with Fly Alliance, a private charter company whose remarkable team enthusiastically embraced the opportunity to help these 70 pups find safety. Sharing our passion for animals, they were eager to contribute to providing these dogs a chance for a brighter future. Thanks to their incredible generosity, we managed to save $60,000 on the plane cost. We express our deepest gratitude to Fly Alliance for stepping in when we needed it most. We trust they will provide exceptional care during these special pups’ freedom flight home.

A Big THANK YOU to Race for Life Rescue!

We express our gratitude to every individual who played a role in making this remarkable mission a reality. A special thank you goes to Race For Life Rescue, a non-profit organization that facilitates air transport for animals. Their mission involves rescuing animals from overcrowded shelters and transporting them to adoption centers where they can find secure and loving homes.

When Race For Life Rescue’s exceptional team learned about our mission, they eagerly stepped forward to lend their support. We are thrilled to announce their involvement in transporting some of the West Bank dogs to our rescue partners across the country. Shortly after these dogs arrive at JFK Airport, the Race for Life Rescue team will assist in transporting them to their final destinations. We extend our heartfelt thanks for their kindness, generosity, and unwavering commitment to aiding animals in need.

Interested in Adopting a West Bank Dog? 

Our mission owes its success to the unwavering support of our dedicated shelter partners across the United States, who have graciously agreed to welcome 70 dogs from the West Bank into their care. While some of these special pups have already found foster homes, many still seek loving forever families. If you’re ready to open your heart and home to one of these deserving companions, we encourage you to contact our shelter partners directly for detailed adoption information. Your decision to adopt can make a lasting impact on the lives of these dogs, providing them with the love and stability they deserve.

Detroit Animal Welfare Group (DAWG) – Michigan

Kindness Ranch – Wyoming

Mag Mutts Rescue – Illinois

Paws for Miles – Ohio

Rocket Dog Rescue – California

Saving Great Animals – Washington

Two by Two – Alabama

While the freedom flight for these 70 dogs has been secured, we still need help to cover import fees and costs associated with the final transports to their foster homes, as well as medical care, nourishing food and boarding until they are ready to head to their forever homes. Donate here to support this ongoing effort.

Amidst the hustle and bustle of a Navy base, an unexpected friendship blossomed, warming the hearts of all who witnessed it. Stinky, a spirited stray dog, found her forever home in the unlikeliest places – the heart of a compassionate Navy Petty Officer on deployment.

The officer stumbled upon Stinky and felt an immediate connection. Recognizing the need to ensure Stinky’s safety and provide her with a loving home, the officer knew he had to take action and took her back to base with him.

As the days turned into weeks, Stinky became more than just a four-legged companion to the officer; she became a morale booster for the entire base. The two formed an inseparable bond. The officer even built Stinky her very own dog house on the base. 

He knew he could not leave her behind when the officer’s deployment ended. He needed to find a way to bring Stinky back to the United States with him. And that’s when he reached out to us for assistance.

Our dedicated team sprang into action, swiftly taking Stinky into our care. She received top-notch treatment, including vaccinations, travel paperwork, and all the love she deserved. Our team ensured every detail was attended to for Stinky’s long-awaited journey home.

The day finally arrived for Stinky to embark on her transcontinental adventure. With her tail wagging and spirits high, Stinky embraced every moment of the journey. And then came the magical reunion. Stinky and her officer were finally back together. The once stray dog, who had found solace in the company of a Navy hero, is now living her best life in America.

Every week, we receive more and more requests from U.S. service members who desperately need help bringing the beloved animals they befriend on deployment to safety. Each rescue can last from a few weeks to several months and costs between $4,000 to $9,000 per animal. We need your help reuniting these U.S. heroes with the animals they love. Donate now.

One big reason people might hesitate to go into long-term treatment or sober living is that they don’t have anyone to look after their pets. It’s a similar situation for those facing domestic violence – they often can’t seek help because they can’t bring their pets along. We believe nobody should have to part with their furry friends to get the support they need. That’s why, through our PAWsitive Recovery program, we offer temporary housing, food, and medical care for these pets. This way, their owners can focus on getting the help they need to heal. It’s all about helping them rebuild their lives so they can eventually be reunited with their beloved animals and start a new, happier chapter together.

Charlie & Michael

Michael’s motivation for getting sober was coming home and giving his dogs a better life. He knew that getting treatment for his alcoholism was the right thing for him to do for himself, his dogs, his friends, and his family. It wasn’t easy, but knowing that his best friend, Charlie, was in good hands and waiting for him kept him focused on his recovery. When they reunited, Charlie, a high-energy pup who loves to cuddle, could barely control his excitement. We’re thrilled to see them embark on this next adventure together. 

Loki & Kurt

Before his addiction, Kurt loved snowboarding, hiking, biking, and being outdoors. His dog, Loki, was always by his side. In 2020, Kurt’s drinking got out of control, and he lost all of his friends. But he never lost Loki. Even in the worst of times, Loki was by Kurt’s side, giving him the love and support he needed. Eventually, Kurt sought treatment and is now over 100 days sober and reunited with his best friend. They’re rebuilding their lives together and looking forward to what lies ahead.

Want to make other reunions like this possible? Make a donation to our PAWsitive Recovery program today.

In recognition of Spay and Neuter Month, SPCA International is awarding shelter partners worldwide with grants totaling over $120,000. This initiative underscores the importance of spaying and neutering stray and owned animals. Beyond controlling overpopulation, spaying and neutering play a pivotal role in reducing the number of homeless animals, alleviating strain on shelters, and promoting healthier lives for pets. Through these grants, we hope to support shelters in their mission to provide care and refuge for animals in need and advocate for responsible pet ownership practices globally. Join us in celebrating this commitment to animal welfare and recognizing the vital role spaying and neutering plays in creating a brighter, more humane future for our furry companions.

Below are some of the exciting Spay & Neuter projects we are sponsoring this month: 

AFRICA

Lake Zone Animal Welfare Organization (LAZAWO): Six spay and neuter clinics for owned and stray animals at various local markets in Mwanza, Tanzania.

ASIA

Jerusalem SPCA: Trap-Neuter-Release project with the goal of sterilizing 440 street cats in Jerusalem, Israel.

EUROPE

Worldwide Vets: Year-long project to provide sterilizations to stray and owned cats and dogs across Ukraine. 

Tierhilfe K.O.S: Three major sterilization programs that will benefit the stray animals in the island of Samos, Greece.

Help Animals-Cat Shelter Jessica: Trap-Neuter-Release project to provide sterilization surgeries to cats and dogs across Serbia.

NORTH AMERICA

Fiona Animal Rescue: Spay and neuter clinic with the goal of sterilizing 130 cats and dogs in underserved communities in Mexico.

Greater Victoria Animal Crusaders (GVAC): Mobile vet spay and neuter clinic for low-income members in Victoria, Canada.

Pet Project Rescue: Spay and neuter surgeries for low-income pet owners and community animal caregivers in Playa del Carmen, Mexico.

SOUTH AMERICA

Red de Apoyo Canino (RAC): Large spay and neuter project with the goal of sterilizing 1,000 cats and dogs across low-income communities in Venezuela.

Spay Panama: Low-cost and free spay and neuter clinics to sterilize stray and owned animals in Panama.

An Important Message from our West Bank Partner, Daily Hugz Animal Sanctuary:

Our team is in the final stages of planning the crucial evacuation of the 65 dogs at the Daily Hugz sanctuary in the West Bank. We’re partnering with local rescues across the U.S. to help these lucky dogs find forever homes filled with love. Want to meet some special dogs taking the ride of a lifetime? Dive in and get to know some of the stars of this life-saving flight! 

Nilin: Nilin was rescued after being chased by kids pouring oil on him. He was just a puppy when Daily Hugz took him in. Despite his tough start, he is extremely friendly and loves kids and playing with other dogs.

Sally: Sadly, Sally’s puppies were killed by a group of kids who also tried to hurt her. Despite this,  Sally is very friendly and loves people. At times, she can be reactive around other dogs. Sally has one eye clouded over, but that doesn’t stop this special girl from living her best life.

Farouk & Faysal: Adorable siblings rescued from the street 4 years ago. They are friendly (although Faysal is a little shy) and great with other dogs.

Mayla: Mayla’s history is unknown, but one thing is sure: she is the sweetest tripod you will ever meet.

Kareem: Kareem was found as an abandoned puppy near the Daily Hugz sanctuary. He’s shy at first, but he is very loving and affectionate once he’s comfortable. He will do anything for a belly rub. 

Sukar: Sukar is named after the Arabic word for “sugar” because he’s such a sweet pup. He’s very friendly but also enjoys spending time on his own.

Suhita: Suhita was found as a puppy begging for food at a restaurant. She’s shy but friendly.

Badu: Badu found himself without a home after his owners moved back to Europe. Badu enjoys being around people but can be reactive around other dogs.

Tala & Sunbul: Siblings born at the Daily Hugz sanctuary on New Year’s Day in 2019. Tala is very shy, while Sunbul is friendly and enjoys being around people and other dogs.

Lucky: Lucky was rescued from children throwing rocks at him. Despite the time he spent trying to survive on the street, Lucky is friendly and very calm.

Ava: Ava was surrendered to Daily Hugz by a man whose wife didn’t like dogs. She is quiet, gentle, and enjoys being around people.

Nabila: Nabila has been at Daily Hugz since she was a tiny puppy. Thanks to the team there, she was able to get a benign tumor removed from her back and is now a healthy, happy dog who loves people and other dogs.

Lukas: Lukas is a happy-go-lucky tripod who loves everyone he meets. Having one leg amputated has not slowed him down at all.

Zoe: Zoe is sweet and has adorable markings. She enjoys spending time on her own. 

Meezan: Meezan is a special tripod with the uncanny ability to maintain perfect balance and run around on three legs. He is friendly with people and dogs.

Susu: Susu is shy and takes a while to warm up to people. He also likes to hang out with the donkeys more than with other dogs. 

Malika, Asim, Adil, Hazim & Spot: This precious litter was rescued as orphans after their mom died from parvovirus. Fortunately, the pups were able to receive treatment in time and survive the deadly disease. Since then, they’ve found comfort at Daily Hugz. Malika is shy but friendly. Asim is friendly and demands belly rubs from everyone he meets. Adil is shy and takes a bit to warm up to people. Hazim has never met a person or dog he doesn’t like.

Jenan: Jenan is a feisty and lovable tripod. She loves people but can get defensive around other dogs.

Stay tuned for adoption information. A list of the local partners participating in this mission will be made available soon.

Please help us ensure these precious pups get to safety and into loving forever homes. Donate today to support their evacuation from the West Bank to the United States.

Update Alert! The situation in the West Bank has intensified, and another shelter urgently reached out for assistance. The number of dogs in our mission has risen from 65 to 70. Your support is crucial now more than ever to ensure the safety of these precious animals.

U.S. servicemembers willingly step into the line of duty, facing challenges and uncertainties that most of us can only imagine. At SPCA International, we believe there’s no better way to express our gratitude for their selfless service than by reuniting these brave men and women with the loyal companions they befriended during their overseas deployments. Through our Patriot Pets program, we recently welcomed a group of Patriot Pets into our care and helped to reunite them with their heroes. With open hearts and wagging tails, these furry friends embarked on freedom flights, preparing for a joyous reunion with the soldiers who mean so much to them. As the holiday season unfolds, we’re thrilled to play a small part in these heartwarming tales of love, loyalty, and companionship.

Poland

When an Army Specialist spotted Poland desperately searching for food, she knew she could not turn her back on the helpless kitty. The specialist began caring for Poland, and the two bonded. The specialist knew cats were not welcome where she was, and she worried about what would happen to her new furry friend once her deployment ended. That’s when she reached out to us- the rest is history! Our team quickly jumped into action, bringing Poland into our care and preparing her to travel to the specialist’s home in New York. Our team was by Poland’s side the entire time, ensuring the sweet cat was safe and at ease during the journey.

Poland made it home just in time for Thanksgiving! Despite his rescuer still being on duty, Poland has already found love and comfort with the soldier’s husband, who picked her up. Their bond is paw-some, and Poland is settling into her new home like a true champ! And she’s counting the days until she’s reunited with the soldier who saved her.

Easy E

Remember Easy E? This adorable pup was the only one in his litter to survive. Sadly, all of his siblings were euthanized, leaving him to fend for himself until a brave soldier came to his aid. The soldier nursed him back to health, sheltered him, and even crafted makeshift toys from camp towels. Easy E became a source of joy for everyone at the camp, and the soldier simply couldn’t imagine leaving Easy E behind when his deployment ended. He knew Easy E simply would not survive on his own. 

Thanks to the generosity of SPCA International donors like you, we raised the necessary funds to bring Easy E to our shelter in Iraq, where he got the necessary medical exam, tests, and vaccinations to fly to the United States. 

We are thrilled that Easy E is now safe in his new forever home, and we can’t wait to hear all about his adventures with the kind soldier who saved his life.

Gunner, Jersey, Boba, Bashi

Compassionate soldiers rescued a stray dog during deployment, only to discover she was pregnant. Soon, a litter of puppies arrived. Born into love and joy, Gunner, Jersey, Boba, and Bashi have been by his soldiers’ side since birth. As their deployment concluded, the soldiers couldn’t leave them behind and asked us for help.

After weeks of navigating red tape and getting the pups ready for their flight to the U.S., we’re pleased to announce that Gunner, Jersey, Boba, and Bashi are all home, nestled back into the arms of the soldiers who embraced them from their first moments.

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Every week, we receive more and more requests from U.S. service members who desperately need help bringing the beloved animals they befriend on deployment to safety. Each rescue can last from a few weeks to several months and costs between $4,000 to $9,000 per animal. We need your help reuniting these U.S. heroes with the animals they love.

Through the Pawsitive Recovery program, we aim to offer temporary shelter and care to the beloved pets of individuals battling substance abuse or escaping domestic violence situations. Today, we are pleased to share the inspiring journey of Ethan, a graduate of the PAWsitive Recovery program.

Ethan, now in recovery and thriving alongside his best friend Dexter, began to struggle with drugs and alcohol while in college. Soon, it started to affect those around him, and Ethan began to isolate himself from others. His dog, Dexter, never left his side. Through every challenge, Dexter was Ethan’s source of comfort and would eventually become his biggest motivation to embark on a journey to sobriety.

“I always say, if it wasn’t for my pup, I don’t know where I would be; he saved my life. His love and affection are unmatched, and he always makes me happy.”

While Dexter inspired Ethan to seek help, getting help while caring for a pet proved challenging. Ethan had to leave Dexter in a kennel when he checked into rehab. He knew his pup wasn’t happy in that environment, but he had no choice. He had no one else to care for Dexter while he got help. It wasn’t until Ethan completed rehab and entered a sober living facility that he came across our program, PAWsitive Recovery.

Once Dexter entered our program, we got to work to find him a loving home. It took a couple of tries to find the perfect fit, but soon, Dexter found himself with the perfect foster family that showered him with the love and attention he needed while away from Ethan. 

“While Dexter was in foster care, I received a picture of him and their puppy practically spooning. It was the cutest picture, and it made me so happy because I knew he was with a perfect family and had found a new best friend! It provided a feeling of peace. Knowing that Dexter was in a good and safe place through PAWsitive recovery, I had a much more positive outlook on everything. It gave me a lot of comfort and peace knowing he was with such an amazing family.”

Ethan was able to give recovery his all, and while the journey was not easy, he is happy he took the first step towards recovery. 

“Having an animal has been one of the most important motivations in my journey. Working to get my normal life back was very hard but knowing that once I can go back to normal, I would have my little guy back.”

Today, Ethan and Dexter are reunited and happier than ever. They’re taking their new journey one step at a time, knowing they have all of our support.

“Every day when I come home from work, Dexter greets me with all the excitement he has in his little body. It’s always something I look forward to, and it makes coming home a lot more special. This journey won’t just change you for the better but allows you to show up as the best version of yourself for everyone around you, especially your pet.”

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Empower individuals like Ethan on their journey to recovery and enable them to care for their pets during the healing process by making a donation to our PAWsitive Recovery program today.

Earlier this month, we shared two heart-wrenching tales: Roman, who faced the unimaginable cruelty of a cable wrapped around his neck and being dragged by a car, and Jerry, a victim of intentional burning, left for dead by a heartless individual. These victims of appalling animal abuse found refuge with our trusted partners in Azerbaijan, who swiftly recognized the gravity of their conditions and provided urgent aid.

Knowing the complexity and costliness of their required veterinary care, we turned to our dedicated donors for support. Your overwhelming generosity ensured that Roman and Jerry received the critical medical attention they desperately needed.

Both dogs have a long road ahead before they’re healed, but thanks to you, they are no longer suffering alone. The veterinary team caring for them is dedicated to doing everything possible for these dogs. We remain committed to keeping you updated on their progress and eagerly anticipate the day we can share images of them, fully healed and thriving in loving homes—thanks to you.

Daily Hugz is the largest animal sanctuary in the West Bank, offering shelter to 65 rescue dogs. Virtually all of them have had to overcome life-threatening abuse, and yet, they radiate love and gratitude for their second chance at life. Daily Hugz has prioritized the most vulnerable animals, from abandoned pups to those struck by cars. For years, these precious animals have been able to run freely in the acre-wide sanctuary. But now, their lives hang in the balance. 

While the focus has been on Gaza, violence has risen in the West Bank. Airstrikes, once rare in the area, have become increasingly common since the war began on October 7. For the safety of their animals, Daily Hugz is left with no other option but to close the sanctuary and find a way to bring their animals to safety. That’s where we come in. In partnership with Daily Hugz, we plan on evacuating these 65 dogs from the West Bank to the United States. Evacuating animals from a war zone is not easy, but we are committed to doing everything we can to ensure their safety. 

Our team is already hard at work preparing for this life-saving mission. We’ve started rushing funds to ensure all dogs are vaccinated and that they receive necessary veterinary care for this critical flight. This is the first step of a long and complicated mission. But with the generous support of animal lovers like you, we know we can bring these dogs to safety. Join us in this vital mission—donate today to contribute to the vaccinations and medical care essential for preparing these 65 dogs for their journey to a secure and loving future!

Back in October we reached out to you with a heartbreaking plea from a domestic abuse survivor who desperately needed help to care for her beloved pup, Dewey. Through the darkest of times, Dewey had been by her human’s side providing her with love and comfort. All her human wanted was to ensure that Dewey was loved and cared for while she worked on healing from the trauma of the abuse she endured. With your help, we were able to make that possible. Not only did we find an incredible foster family to look after Dewey, but we were able to raise the necessary funds to give her the eye surgery she desperately needed and now Dewey is doing better than ever. 

Dewey Loving Life With Her Foster Family

Dewey Being a Brave Girl During Surgery

Dewey and Her Human Reunited