On October 22, the owner involved in last month’s hoarding case forfeited ownership of all the animals, rather than paying for 90 days of care while his criminal trial moves forward. That decision gave us what we needed most: full custody, and the ability to move every one of those animals toward a brighter, safer future.

With custody granted, care that had been on hold for legal reasons could finally begin. Our team got straight to work bathing and grooming the matted and filthy dogs, tending to the rabbits’ overgrown teeth and nails, and making sure every animal could finally receive everything they needed to heal.

It was, in many ways, a day of celebration.

But it was also a day marked by loss.

One of the smallest birds seized — a delicate parrotlet — passed away after being attacked by his cagemates. He had been under close observation from the moment he arrived, weak but fighting. He had started eating and drinking again, and we were full of hope. His passing hit our team hard — especially our wonderful volunteer, Pat, who is our go-to expert for bird care at the shelter. Pat had already imagined giving him a forever home.

In a gesture of compassion, one of our staff members created a small piece of original art to gift to Pat — a tribute to a tiny bird whose presence was brief, but deeply felt. The very next day, a fragile little zebra finch — no larger than a mouse — also passed away.

Their lives were small, but their impact on our hearts was not.

Since those difficult first days, a wave of healing and hope has taken hold. Most of the animals have now been made available for adoption — and the response has been overwhelming. Just this Tuesday, 29 birds were adopted in a single day. Nearly every dog has found a new home as well — only nine remain, including one preparing for transfer to a breed-specific rescue. The goat is awaiting a routine procedure before heading to his future family. Our very own veterinarian, Dr. Winsch, adopted the box turtle, and the two tortoises will soon be moving to a reptile rescue. All of the chickens are already home.

And thanks to you — our incredible community — we have reached our $10,000 match from Dr. Elsey’s. The combined generosity has more than covered the cost of care for every animal from this case. In fact, your support has even helped the Shelter overcome unexpected financial challenges from earlier this year.

You have done more than provide supplies and dollars.

You have lifted the spirits of every staff member and volunteer who has poured their hearts into this work.

Thank you — for the food, blankets, towels, notes of encouragement, treats, lunches, and every kind word and share on social media. Thank you — to the adopters who opened their homes and their hearts. Thank you — to everyone who continues to show up for animals who cannot ask for help themselves.

And if you haven’t visited yet — now is the perfect time. A few special animals from this case are still waiting for their new beginning. Your next family member might just be here, ready to transform alongside you.

From all of us — thank you for making second chances possible.

Sincerely,