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From Deadline to Freedom – Rescue Stories
Leaving the shelter is only the beginning. Once a dog is saved, they may still need safe transport, urgent veterinary care, training, foster placement, and time to decompress before they can begin their next chapter.
In August 2026, Hope Paws Support Fund awarded grants to help make that transition possible for Polly, Kaiba, Burlington, Hopper and Morticia.
Because of your donations, these dogs received critical support on their path from shelter deadline to safety, recovery, and a loving future.
POLLY
Rescued by Golden Years Dog Sanctuary on 08/14/2026
Grant: $500 to pull dog out of shelter.
13-year-old Jindo mix Polly, now Creme Brulee, was owner-surrendered to Downey Shelter on July 21. She had no major medical or behavioral issues—she was simply an older dog who was running out of time.
Thankfully, a wonderful foster stepped up, and Polly is now SAFE and enjoying her new home!
KAIBA
Rescued by Trina & Friends K9 Rescue on 08/14/2026
Grant: $500 for pull support.
Alex’s life changed when he was found wandering near a busy intersection. A kind person took him home to keep him safe, never imagining that he would soon be fighting for a second chance.
After missing his deadline and facing euthanasia, Kaiba has finally made it out of the shelter! We’re incredibly grateful he got the chance he deserved. 🐾
For now, Kaiba is resting safely in a crate, as requested by the shelter, while he begins adjusting to life outside the stressful shelter environment. He’ll need time, patience, decompression, and support as we get to know him.
BURLINGTON
Grant: $500 for pull support.
🐾 Burlington #A1972473 is SAFE! ❤️ After facing euthanasia at Orange County Animal Care, this 4-year-old, 61-lb neutered boy has been given a second chance with @wooftriberescue. Found as a stray with an injured paw, Burlington was understandably frightened in the shelter. Now he can decompress, heal, and begin his journey toward a safe, loving future. 🐾❤️
HOPPER
Rescued by Friends of Anubis Rescue on 08/21/2026
Grant: $500 for pull support.
Hopper is only two, yet his life has already been a battle. Found wandering Santa Ana streets, he was easily captured and walked door-to-door for a week—but no one claimed him. At the shelter, fear took over: hard stares, stiff body, growls—yet he never bit. His past remains unknown, but his resilience is undeniable. And now, the best news: Hopper has been rescued! A hero stepped forward, seeing past his fear to the loyal companion within. No longer behind bars, Hopper is safe, loved, and beginning a new chapter—proof that every dog deserves a second chance. Welcome home, sweet boy. 🐾❤️
MORTICIA
Rescued by Goodest Rescue on 08/21/2026
Grant: $500 for pull support.
We are overjoyed to share that Morticia, the beautiful 2-year-old Great Dane mix, has been rescued by @goodestdanerescue on August 21, 2026! Just in the nick of time, this gentle black giant was pulled from the euthanasia list and given the second chance she so desperately deserved. No longer behind bars or facing an uncertain fate, Morticia is now on her way to safety, love, and healing. Thanks to the tireless efforts of her rescue team and the power of community advocacy, this sweet girl will soon know what it feels like to be truly cherished. Welcome to freedom, Morticia—your best life starts now! ❤️🐶✨
Recap of All Donations
Here is a full recap of the grants that contributed:
| Date | Dog | Recipient | Amount | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| August 22, 2026 | Hopper | Friends of Anubis | $500 | Rescue |
| August 22, 2026 | Burlington | Woof Tribe Rescue | $500 | Rescue |
| August 17, 2026 | Perry | Friends of Anubis | $300 | Rescue |
| August 16, 2026 | Kaiba | Trina’s Friends K9 Rescue | $500 | Rescue |
| August 14, 2026 | Polly | Golden Years Dog Sanctuary | $500 | Rescue |
| August 3, 2026 | Silver | Rides for Paws | $200 | Rescue |
| July 23, 2026 | Strut | Pugs and Kisses Rescue | $560 | Emergency |
| July 19, 2026 | Lovin | Mongrel Mafia Dog Rescue | $185 | Transport |
| July 19, 2026 | Funshine Bear | Rosies Rainbow Senior Dog Sanctuary | $500 | Transport |
| July 17, 2026 | Alex | Trina’s Friends K9 Rescue | $130 | Rescue |
| June 27, 2026 | Drakeo | SoCal White Shepherd Rescue Foundation | $230 | Rescue |
| June 25, 2026 | Kona | Coastal German Shepherd Rescue | $520 | Rescue |
| June 21, 2026 | Ryder | Trina’s Friends K9 Rescue | $240 | Rescue |
| May 30, 2026 | Stewie | My Forever Dog Rescue | $500 | Rescue |
| May 30, 2026 | Suds | My Forever Dog Rescue | $500 | Rescue |
| May 15, 2026 | Baby Boy | Legacy of Love 805 | $50 | Rescue |
Why This Matters
Every rescue story we share is made possible by your support. When you donate, share, or fundraise, you are part of this mission.
We are 100% volunteer-led. Every dollar goes directly to dogs.
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