Raya is a fearful adult shepherd I met at Levelland Animal Shelter. She was overwhelmed by the shelter environment and struggling to trust, and the shelter has limited space. Because she is the most fearful dog there, staff are uncomfortable handling her, which makes her especially at risk. When I met her while consulting with the shelter, I was able to get her out, muzzle and restrain her for vaccines, and remove the muzzle without any issue. That showed me that underneath her fear is a dog who deserves the opportunity to feel safe and show us who she really is.

Raya is coming into my care through RafStar K9 to begin decompression, rehabilitation, and training. I’m a trainer who travels and consults with shelters, and while she is with me, I will also be searching for the right permanent home for her. Through my work in shelter behavior and dog training, I regularly meet dogs whose fear makes it difficult for people to see their potential. Raya is one of those dogs. Instead of allowing her shelter behavior to define her future, I’m giving her time, structure, and an opportunity to learn how to trust.

Getting Raya out of the shelter is only the beginning. Before she can move forward, she needs veterinary care, essential supplies, and ongoing support throughout her rehabilitation. Funds raised will help cover:

• Veterinary examination and recommended care
• Spay surgery
• Microchip and preventative medications
• Food, bedding, and daily supplies
• Secure walking and containment equipment
• Training and enrichment supplies
• Boarding when I’m out of town for work
• Ongoing care while she decompresses, trains, and waits for the right home
• Emergency needs that may come up while she’s with me

Because Raya’s needs will continue while she is in my care, recurring donations would make a real difference in helping me keep up with her food, supplies, boarding, and ongoing rehabilitation. One-time donations are also deeply appreciated and will go directly toward her veterinary care and the support she needs along the way.

This is a personal passion project through RafStar K9, not a 501c3 nonprofit, and contributions should not be considered tax-deductible. I’ll continue sharing Raya’s progress so everyone supporting her can follow her journey from the shelter to the home she deserves. Every contribution helps, and sharing this fundraiser can be just as valuable. Your support will help me give Raya the chance she deserves.