In a breathtaking tale of resilience and commitment, ARF's clinic saved the life of an injured dog named Injigo.
 
   

News from Tony La Russa's Animal Rescue Foundation  |  April 2022

   
   
DONATE
 
ADOPT
   
 


Injigo's Incredible Story of Survival

On a cold, gloomy day in California’s Central Valley, an animal control officer responded to a gruesome situation: a small, bloody dog whose leg was almost completely detached. It’s unclear whether the dog escaped from a trap or was attacked by another animal, but he would be unlikely to survive the next few days without urgent veterinary attention. They rushed the poor pup to the local municipal shelter and found our rescue team there, loading up animals to take back to the Bay Area. After assessing if the injured dog was stable enough to travel, our team offered to get him the emergency care he needed. Crying in pain the whole drive back to Walnut Creek, the dog – now named Injigo – was greeted by medical staff waiting to dive into action.

IV fluids, antibiotics, anti-inflammatory medication, and painkillers were administered, and Injigo's leg was carefully cleaned and bandaged. It took three days of expert treatment (and loving cuddles) from our clinic team before they could remove the necrotic limb, but his spirits rose higher and higher with each passing day. The amputation was a success, but x-rays showed his injuries were more extensive than originally known. After a few weeks of TLC in a foster home, Injigo underwent a second procedure called a Femoral Head Ostectomy to repair one of his other legs.

Ever the resilient fellow, Injigo quickly got used to life on three legs. His foster family noted him to be a lap dog who "prefers to be touched at all times if possible." With a character that charming, Injigo found the perfect home just two days after becoming healthy enough for adoption.

Injigo’s surgeries cost more than $5,000 – far more than many public shelters could afford. But thanks to your support, we are often the first call our shelter partners make when facing a dire situation like this. Your gift today will ensure the next animal like Injigo receives the expert care they need to survive. Plus, thanks to a $500,000 matching campaign by a generous friend of the animals, you can double the impact of your gift and save twice as many lives!




Spend Time Helping Animals in Need

Do you love dogs and cats? Have you been looking for a way to give back to the community? Well, we have great news! In honor of National Volunteer Appreciation Week, we're thrilled to announce our volunteer program is once again open for applications. The generous gift of your time and energy extends our resources and provides the support necessary to fulfill our incredible mission.

We offer a wide range of volunteer opportunities:

  • Adoption contracts
  • Animal care
  • Data entry and admin
  • Event support
  • Reception desk
  • and more!

Learn more about our volunteer program on our website's volunteer FAQ. Then, fill out an online volunteer interest form and start spending your free time saving lives and connecting hearts.

 



More Updates

 

Animals on Broadway: Sunday, May 22

Create your Animals on Broadway page to win prizes and save lives! Then, join us on Sunday, May 22 to celebrate the bond between pets and people. Thank you to our event sponsors: Broadway Plaza, Central Garden & PetDiablo Subaru of Walnut Creek, Purina, and VCA Animal Hospitals.

 

Walk-In Adoptions are Back

ICYMI: Our walk-in adoption process has returned! Join us at our Walnut Creek headquarters to browse our animals and bring home a furry, new best friend. Adoption hours are 12-6 pm, Wed-Sun (with early sign-in available Wed-Fri, beginning at 9 am).

 

Free Veterinary Wellness Clinics for Veterans

Did you know we offer free veterinary wellness care to the pets of US Veterans by appointment? Starting this month, our clinic will be expanding to provide mobile services at the Livermore VA as well. To make an appointment, Veterans can call (925) 296-3125 (option 7) and leave a message.

 

Adopt Lollipop and Jelly Bean

Lollipop and Jelly Bean are a bonded pair of floofs looking for a home where they can grow old together! These luxurious sisters could spend all day curled up in a sunbeam or napping away on your lap. View all of our animals online, or come meet them in person!