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Coquito was given a euthanasia deadline at the shelter.
Labeled “hospice,” he was expected to have days—maybe weeks—and urgently needed a foster or rescue just to make it out alive.
At the last moment, a group of dedicated advocates, volunteers, and one incredible foster stepped in. Coquito walked out of the shelter just in time—right before he almost didn’t make it.
But leaving under “hospice” meant something devastating: no medical support would follow.
His foster was faced with an impossible decision—return him to the shelter to be euthanized, or take on the full cost of his care privately.
We chose to fight for him.
A small group of us came together—his foster, volunteers, and experienced rescuers—to give Coquito a real chance. Not just to survive, but to be properly evaluated, treated, and, if possible, recover. And if not, to ensure he experiences true comfort, dignity, and love in whatever time he has left.
Coquito lived a hard life. He belonged to a homeless man who loved him deeply but ultimately couldn’t keep up with his growing medical needs. By the time Coquito reached the shelter, his condition had deteriorated significantly.
When we first met him, he could barely walk a few steps without collapsing from exhaustion. His breathing was labored. His gums were pale. He was struggling.
What we know so far
After full diagnostics—including X-rays, bloodwork, and ongoing specialist review—this is what we’re currently facing:
- Severe arthritis (hips nearly bone-on-bone, causing significant pain and mobility issues)
- Lung damage, likely from past pneumonia or chronic respiratory infection
- Ongoing evaluation to rule out cancer or underlying disease
What we’ve already started
- Arthritis treatment injections (first of a 3-part series)
- Prescription joint support supplements
- Antibiotics to address lung inflammation/infection
- Pain management and anti-inflammatory care
- Daily steam therapy to help his breathing
And already… he’s improving.
He’s walking more. He’s breathing better. He has more energy.
And most importantly—he’s happy.
Despite everything, Coquito is pure love.
He leans into you for pets. He begs you not to stop.
He just wants to be held, comforted, and close to someone.
He has made one thing very clear: He is not ready to go.
What he needs next
To continue improving and manage his pain long-term, Coquito urgently needs:
- Red light therapy for his arthritis (highly recommended, but costly)
- Continued diagnostics and specialist review
- Ongoing medications and treatments
- Supportive care to maintain mobility and comfort
Why we’re asking for help
This effort is being funded privately by a small group of people who refused to give up on him.
A rescue professional has stepped in to help guide care and front costs—but Coquito is not backed by a formal rescue, and there is no organizational funding behind him.
Every dollar raised goes directly to his medical care.
How you can help
If you can donate, it will go directly toward giving Coquito the treatment, comfort, and time he deserves.
If you can’t donate, sharing his story makes a real difference.
Coquito was almost another shelter statistic.
Instead, he’s getting a second chance.
Let’s not give up on him— when he hasn’t given up on life.
Bills so far:
Exams, diagnostics and treatments so far - $1,111.25
Ongoing treatment- red light therapy $2520 ($280 per session, 3x a week, for 3 weeks)
