She was cold, she was hungry, and she was on the run. Lucky for Madison, three good Samaritans were passing through the area and saw the emaciated dog dashing down the road, dragging a tangled leash behind her.

Not familiar with the area, the trio googled animal shelters and up popped Pets Alive. They gingerly lifted the shivering Madison into their car and she collapsed on the seat, breathing a sign of relief. They rushed her to our facility and in an instant, on December 18, Madison’s life changed forever.

Madison’s collar and leash when she was found

We were aghast at what we saw. The first thing our team did was to remove the bondage from her neck. Madison gladly let our team slip off her choker collar that was around her neck. A tangled and knotted leash was attached to the collar – a sign she may have been tethered to a post or other object.

Our team then examined her. Her ribs were protruding from her side. It was obvious she had not eaten properly in a long while. She weighed in at a mere 40 pounds. A dog her size should weigh at least 55 pounds. He feet were also raw, most likely from running on frigid pavement.

In the days ahead, further diagnostics revealed that Madison has Lyme Disease (a tick-borne disease), she needs to be spayed, requires vaccinations, deworming, a microchip, and blood work to determine if there are any other issues which we’d need to treat.

Madison is now on a feeding plan of 4 small meals a day so that she can slowly and safely regain her weight. Her feet are healing and she is also being treated for Lyme Disease. Despite all she has been through, she is a sweet and affectionate dog and has quickly become a staff and volunteer favorite.

It will cost us hundreds of dollars to help Madison regain her health. Won’t you make a tax-deductible donation today to help us replenish our Medical Fund? Your gift will help Madison regain her health – and treat the other animals at our facility or those that will find us in the days ahead needing urgent medical care. It is your generosity that heals these helpless animals and makes them whole once again.