Help Kirby Fight His Way Back Home

Kirby went missing on June 17, 2026. After nearly seven long weeks of searching, hoping, and never giving up, Kirby was finally found on Monday, August 3, 2026. Thanks to the entire Custer, SD community for searching and supporting those searching for Kirby! Finally, the reunion everyone had prayed for was also heartbreaking.

Kirby was barely alive.

He has suffered unimaginable hardship from the time he spent lost in the forest. He is severely malnourished and starved, covered in open wounds that were infested, and countless wood ticks had attached themselves to his frail body. On Monday, he was rushed to the emergency veterinarian, where he remains hospitalized and receiving around-the-clock care.

Kirby has a long road ahead of him. Prolonged starvation has taken a devastating toll on his body. His organs have been affected, he is anemic, and he faces additional medical challenges that are still being evaluated. Recovery will require slow and steady veterinary care and needs to come at a slow pace in order to give Kirby's body time to heal.

Yet through it all, Kirby hasn't given up!

The veterinary team says he has the will to live. They can see it in his desire to eat food, drink water, his attempts to stand and walk, and his happiness when his loved ones come to see him. Every small victory is a reminder that he's fighting with everything he has.

Like so many of us facing an unexpected emergency, Kirby's family is now dealing with the emotional and financial burden of extensive veterinary care. Every day brings monitoring, new treatments, and a lot of hope for continued progress.

After seven weeks of uncertainty, Kirby made it home. Now he needs all of us to help him heal.

If you're able, please consider making a donation to help cover Kirby's medical expenses. No amount is too small, and every dollar goes toward giving this sweet boy the chance he deserves.

If you're unable to donate, please consider sharing Kirby's story. Your kindness, prayers, and support mean the world to his family.

If Kirby's medical expenses are fully covered, any remaining donations will be given to STARS (Save Them All Rescue Services) in the southern Black Hills area to help other animals in need. Your generosity will continue making a difference long after Kirby's recovery.

Let's help Kirby write the next chapter of his story—one of healing, hope, and coming home for good.

Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for supporting Kirby and his family during this bittersweet time.