Seeking your support for their courageous journeys.
For some of our dogs, the road to CARE STL is troublesome. They endure neglect, starvation, abuse, disease, and trauma, to say the least. And many times, that saving requires medical intervention. Please read about our courageous heroes for inspiration.
How You Can Help
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Mail a Check: Send your contributions to CARE STL, 2700 Walnut Place, St Louis, MO 63103
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In-Person Donations: Drop off donations at our shelter during operating hours.
Thank you for your support and for being a part of their journey to health and happiness. Your generosity ensures that we can continue to offer life-saving treatments to dogs in need. Together, we can give them a second chance at life and the loving homes they deserve. Donate today and be a hero for these animals.
Battling Parvo: The Resilient Journey of Mahogany and Saucer
DECEMBER 26, 2024 In our City of St. Louis, where stray dogs often wander the streets, a heartwarming yet challenging story of Mahogany and Saucer began. These two dogs, each with their own harrowing journey, found themselves in our shelter and battling a deadly disease in a race against time. Mahogany, a regal-looking dog with a rich brown coat, was discovered running loose by a kind-hearted passerby. With no microchip to identify him and no collar to hint at his origins, Mahogany was taken to the shelter, where he was given a thorough check-up. Sadly, he tested positive for parvovirus, a highly contagious and often fatal disease for dogs. As Mahogany began his treatment, another stray arrived at the shelter. This dog found on a school lot with a swollen face and an injured leg, quickly won the hearts of the staff with his friendly demeanor. He was affectionately named Saucer. Despite his painful injuries, Saucer's tail wagged with a hopeful spirit. However, Saucer's condition was more serious than it appeared; a closer examination revealed that he, too, was suffering from parvovirus. Parvovirus attacks the intestines of dogs, leading to severe vomiting, diarrhea, and dehydration. The disease is especially dangerous for puppies and unvaccinated dogs. Mahogany and Saucer, both tested positive and showing symptoms of this deadly virus, were immediately placed in isolation to prevent further spread and to receive intensive care. The shelter staff, already stretched thin by the demands of numerous animals in their care, rallied together to provide round-the-clock attention to these two fighters. Mahogany, with his proud demeanor, seemed determined to fight through the illness. His eyes, though clouded with pain, never lost their spark of hope. Saucer, despite his swollen face, remained ever so friendly, seeking comfort from the gentle touch of the caregivers. Every day, the staff administered fluids, antibiotics, and anti-nausea medications to help their bodies combat the virus. Our dedicated staff cleaned up after these dogs with meticulous care, ensuring that the isolation ward remained as sterile as possible. The constant vigilance was exhausting, but the staff's dedication never wavered. The road to recovery will be long and arduous. The staff's compassion and dedication transformed the isolation ward from a place of despair to a sanctuary of healing. However, the cost of their intensive care and treatment is high. In a municipal shelter, this type of diagnosis will immediately result in euthanasia but at CARE STL, we do everything medically and behaviorally possible to save a life. We are reaching out to our compassionate community for support. Your donations can make a tremendous difference in the lives of Mahogany, Saucer, and many other dogs in need. Every contribution, no matter the size, helps us provide the necessary medical care, medications, and round-the-clock attention these dogs require to fully recover and find their forever homes.
Armie's Journey: From the Streets of St. Louis to Sanctuary
DECEMBER 13, 2024 Armie, a three-year-old male dog, was found in a business parking lot in the City of St. Louis. His swollen face and wounds all over his body painted a picture of the harsh life he'd endured. Despite his painful condition, Armie was remarkably friendly with people, showing no signs of aggression. His left muzzle was swollen, and a wound on his lip indicated a recent injury. Older scabs on his body suggested he had been suffering for a while. CARE STL took Armie in, providing the initial care he desperately needed. Although his reaction to his reflection—growling and stiffening—showed his fear and confusion, his affection towards people remained unwavering. However, as he stayed in the overcrowded shelter, Armie's behavior began to escalate. The stress of being around other dogs caused him to break out of his crate, and he became a potential redirect risk. Armie's anxiety grew to the point where he couldn't be left alone in the yard, even during playtime. His aggression towards other dogs and high-stress levels made the shelter environment unbearable for him. Recognizing his critical situation, CARE STL placed Armie on the Lifesaver's Initiative list, a last resort to find him a suitable home or sanctuary. Luckily, a foster home opened up for Armie, offering him a glimmer of hope. But his stay was short-lived. Armie bulldozed through an 8-foot chain link fence to attack a neighbor's dog tethered up nearby. Although Armie was mostly potty trained, crated well for 8-10 hours, and friendly with people and teens, his inability to tolerate other dogs led to his return to CARE STL. Despite his setbacks, Armie remained a loving, playful, and athletic dog who adored people and toys. He needed a place where he could be the only pet, a sanctuary that could provide the specialized care and training he required. CARE STL found a partner sanctuary willing to take Armie, but funds were needed to secure his spot and cover his rehabilitation. ARMIE'S NEEDS AT THE SANCTUARY • Spot Secured at the Sanctuary • 12+ Weeks of • Training/Rehabilitation • Onsite training focused on adoptability, trigger identification, and remedy • Care from a military veterinarian experienced with military dogs • Potential Adopter Training • A trainer will work with the potential adopter at no cost, ensuring Armie's smooth transition • Free lifetime consultation for Armie's adopter to prevent him from returning to the system • Commitment to No Euthanasia for Behavioral Issues Your donations will ensure Armie receives the care he needs and a chance at a better life. The funds will cover his training and veterinary care and secure his place at the sanctuary. ARMIE'S STORY HIGHLIGHTS • 3 years old • Loves people and toys • Crate-trained and housebroken • Needs to be the only pet • Loving, playful, smart Please help Armie get the life he deserves. Your contribution, no matter the amount, will save his life and secure his future at the sanctuary. Armie’s swollen face (as shown in the picture) from the fight with the neighbor's dog will be treated by the vet as soon as possible. Let’s give Armie the chance to heal and thrive in a place where he feels safe and loved.