Yesterday, my heart broke — and opened even wider.

For weeks, I’d had my eyes on a beautiful Aussie mix at a high-kill shelter in New Mexico. Last week, I was told he had a pending adoption, and I walked away hopeful. A few days later, I saw him listed again — he’d been returned because the family’s cat didn’t like him.

I went to pick him up yesterday, determined to give him a second chance. But when I looked over the edge of his kennel, I saw him lying in his own feces — not just unclean, but shut down. Dogs don’t soil themselves unless something is very wrong. I booked a grooming appointment to prepare him for a fresh start with his foster, but during the session, something terrifying happened: he had a seizure when the blow dryer turned on.

I rushed him to Mosaic Veterinary Partners, an emergency hospital here in New Mexico, where he suffered another seizure. After hours of worry and difficult decisions, we chose to fight for his life — and thank God we did. He made it through the night and was diagnosed with idiopathic epilepsy. He’s now stable, and will need lifelong medication to manage his condition.

He’s still waiting for a forever home with someone who will understand his medical needs and love him for the gentle soul he is.

But right now, I need help covering the cost of his emergency care. My partner and I paid $2,800 out-of-pocket to give him a chance at life. We didn’t hesitate — but as a small rescue running entirely on donations, we’re hoping our community can help us recover from this unexpected medical bill.

Every donation, no matter the amount, makes a difference. Your support allows us to continue saving dogs like him — the ones that others have given up on.

Thank you for believing in this mission and for helping us give him the love and life he deserves.

With all my heart,

Sofia @ Desert Sky Rescue

@desertskyrescue