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From Deadline to Freedom – Rescue Stories
Rescue is only the first step. After a dog is pulled from the shelter, they need transport, medical care, training, and a safe place to recover.
In July 2026, Hope Paws Support Fund distributed grants to help cover these costs for Lovin, Funshine Bear, Mr. Pibb, Oikos, Alex and Swazi.
Here is how your donations made a difference.
Lovin


Rescued by Mongrel Mafia Dog Rescue on 07/17/2026
Grant: $185 for transport support
Lovin’s story is heartbreaking. He was found as a stray, emaciated and covered in sores. Despite everything, he remained gentle and trusting. He needed safe transport to reach a foster home where he could finally heal.
We granted $185 to Mongrel Mafia Dog Rescue to help cover the cost of his journey. Thanks to their support, Lovin is now in a safe environment, waiting for a forever family.
Alex


Rescued by Trina & Friends K9 Rescue on 07/15/2026
Grant: $130 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.
During Alex’s neuter procedure at OC Animal Care, veterinarians discovered a large mass on his neck—about the size of an egg. The mass requires urgent veterinary evaluation and will likely need surgery to determine its cause and give Alex the best chance at a healthy future.
Alex is a friendly, energetic 4-year-old German Shepherd who greeted shelter staff with tail wags and enthusiasm. Like many frightened dogs, he became fearful during medical restraint, and because of both his medical needs and stress in the shelter environment, he is now Rescue Only.
Funshine Bear

Grant: $500 for transport to Idaho
Funshine Bear is a 7-year-old Boxer/German Shepherd mix who entered OC Animal Care as a stray on June 5, 2026. She has extensive medical needs – multiple mammary masses, osteoarthritis, muscle wasting, and more. A rescue stepped forward, but she needed transport to Idaho.
We granted $500 to help cover fuel and travel costs. Dedicated volunteers drove her all the way to McCall, Idaho, where Rosie’s Rainbow Senior Dog Sanctuary was waiting. Funshine Bear is now receiving the specialized care and love she deserves.
Mr. Pibb


Rescued by Southern California Labrador Retriever Rescue on 07/22/2026
Mr. Pibb is a 10-year-old Labrador Retriever who arrived as a stray on July 13, 2026. He was underweight, had a painful skin infection, an ear infection, and significant dental disease. His review date was July 17, 2026. At 10 years old, this gentle senior should be spending his golden years in a loving home – not alone in a shelter kennel.

Oikos


Rescued by My Forever Love Rescue on 06/10/2026
Oikos was abandoned and tied to a light pole. He was rescued by My Forever Love Rescue on July 10, 2026. But just hours later, the foster who had agreed to take him backed out, leaving him without a safe place to go. For a dog who has already experienced abandonment, this was another heartbreaking setback.
Despite this, Oikos never gave up. And neither did we. He found his forever home at the second time – a committed family who saw past his fear and gave him the stability he had been searching for.
Swazi


Rescued by Hounds and Heroes on 06/16/2026
Swazi came to the shelter as a confiscate after being involved in two bite incidents while with his owner. Because of those incidents, he was facing a death sentence. He was only 1 year and 8 months old.
But behind the label was a young dog who needed guidance, training, and responsible handling. At the shelter, Swazi showed a very different side. He greeted staff with a wagging tail, accepted treats and toys, and sought out human interaction. When staff walked away, he barked for attention, but when they returned and spoke to him calmly, he relaxed and softened immediately.
Swazi could only be released to a 501(c)(3) rescue. Because he was declared a potentially dangerous dog in Orange County, he had to be placed outside of that jurisdiction.
Thankfully, Hounds and Heroes stepped up and gave him the second chance he deserved.
Swazi is now thriving with an experienced trainer, receiving daily private training lessons. He is doing great and is getting neutered this week – part of the funds will go toward his neutering.
Recap of All Donations
Since May 2026, Hope Paws Support Fund has distributed $3,005 in grants to rescue organizations. Here is a full recap:
| Date | Dog | Recipient | Amount | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| May 15, 2026 | Baby Boy | Legacy of Love 805 | $50 | Rescue |
| May 30, 2026 | Stewie | My Forever Dog Rescue | $500 | Rescue |
| May 30, 2026 | Suds | My Forever Dog Rescue | $500 | Rescue |
| June 21, 2026 | Ryder | TRINA & FRIENDS K9 RESCUE | $240 | Rescue |
| June 25, 2026 | Kona | Coastal German Shepherd Rescue | $520 | Rescue |
| June 27, 2026 | Drakeo | SoCal White Shepherd Rescue Foundation | $230 | Rescue |
| July 17, 2026 | Alex | TRINA & FRIENDS K9 RESCUE | $130 | Rescue |
| July 19, 2026 | Lovin | Mongrel Mafia Dog Rescue | $185 | Transport |
| July 19, 2026 | Funshine Bear | Rosies Rainbow Senior Dog Sanctuary | $500 | Transport |
| July 23, 2026 | Strut | Pugs and Kisses Animal Rescue | $560 | Emergency |
| TOTAL | $3,005 |
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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