Amari’s Journey: Strength, Survival & a Second Chance

My name is Nicole, and I'm on the board of directors for Dogs and Cats of Antigua.

Back in February, we received a call from a Canadian visitor staying in Wilikies, Antigua. She had seen a young dog wandering with her entire front leg torn off. Her voice was trembling as she described what she’d witnessed. Thanks to her directions, we were able to find the dog and rush her to get urgent medical care.

Nothing could have prepared us for the sight. This small, sweet dog had survived a catastrophic injury—her front leg was gone, and the wound was days old. Even more shocking: despite the trauma, she was wagging her tail.

We were stunned by her resilience. How had she not bled to death? How had she survived the pain, the infection, the shock? Even more heartbreaking—how had no one helped her?

We named her Amari, which means strength in African origin. It felt fitting. Because that’s exactly what she showed us from the moment we met her.

Thanks to veterinary care (likely the first she’s ever received), Amari began her healing journey. The Canadian visitors who found her were so moved by her spirit and sweetness, they decided to adopt her and bring her home with them to Canada.

But Amari’s story isn’t over yet.

Unfortunately, the amputation site didn’t heal as hoped. The remaining shoulder and scapula are causing chronic irritation and have led to a painful, open sore. To truly heal and live a pain-free life, Amari now needs revision surgery to fully remove the scapula.

The procedure will cost $4,000 CAD. Thankfully, Dr. Larry Wilder has generously agreed to perform the surgery at a discounted rate. But we still need your help to cover the cost.

Amari has survived the unimaginable—and through it all, she’s remained loving, gentle, and hopeful. Now, we want to give her the happy ending she deserves.

Can you help us make that happen? Every donation, no matter how small, brings Amari one step closer to a pain-free future in her forever home.

Thank you for your kindness and compassion. Let’s show Amari just how loved she is.

100% of donations will go to Kelly, Amari's mom who was the visitor who found her and eventually adopted her!! :-) If you want to donate to DACOA directly via Paypal or Venmo, please put "Amari surgery" in the notes when you donate. Thanks!