No matter their circumstances, many of the homeless pets we care for at Palmetto Animal League possess the inspiring ability to overcome great odds while maintaining both positivity and joy. One such animal is a puppy named Fred.   

Just weeks after being adopted, the unthinkable happened to this vibrant, 5-month-old pup. Fred got overly excited, bolted, and was hit by a car leaving his spine fractured and his backend paralyzed. Although he was in desperate need of medical attention, Fred’s spirits were high. 

“Luckily he is a superhero pup,” says Fred’s foster mom Lori Roos. “His will to live was strong and he was ready to take on the recovery process and become a carefree puppy once again.” 

Because of compassionate support from our Lowcountry community, PAL was able to raise the funds necessary to cover Fred’s costly medical needs. Those gifts also allowed Fred to be fitted for a special wheeled cart that allows him to run and play. 

“It is adjustable so it will grow with him,” explains Roos. “His cart is starting out as a quad for extra support but will convert to a two-wheeled cart when he’s ready!” 

Thanks to the kindness of so many, Fred will also receive physical therapy to build upper body strength and treatment for any other issues that may arise in the future due to his injury. Despite the challenges he has faced, Fred is still incredibly sweet and affectionate. He has an endless amount of love to give and appreciates every ounce of love he receives.

“Taking care of Fred is quite easy if you set up his environment properly,” explains Roos. “The person who adopts him will need to take him out for daily walks in his wheeled cart and play with him so he can have a full and happy life. Fred greets every day with strength and determination. He loves being with people and sharing his positive energy.”

If you know someone who is inspired by a special pet in their life, give them a meaningful gift this holiday season. Have a pet portrait tile made and displayed at PAL “In Honor” or “In Memory” of a beloved pet. Two pet tiles are normally $150, but right now you can get two for just $100. One tile will be permanently displayed on the walls of PAL’s No Kill Adoption Center and the second tile can be given as a gift. We will provide a gift card that you can present to a recipient explaining how PAL’s pet portrait tiles pay it forward to help homeless animals. Order today at www.PalmettoAnimalLeague.org and your holiday gifts will rescue more pets like Fred.  

Amy Campanini, Palmetto Animal League President

We love sharing stories of rescue and hope with all our animal loving friends. Get them delivered right to your inbox by signing up for our regular updates! 

Thank you to our Partners in Rescue, The Bluffton Sun and The Hilton Head Sun for being beacons of compassion and hope for homeless pets in our community. Please show your support for these local animal loving businesses!