Poor little Joey just can't catch a break!  Many of you already know Joey's story but here's a little background for those who don't...he suffered major trauma/abuse in his previous life (likely at the hands of a man) that has made him untrusting of new people.  As a result, he was listed for euthanasia at the OC shelter and was scheduled to be killed just hours after when we stepped in to save him.  He's been with our rescue for 15 months because he takes so long to trust new people.  Most adopters don't want to take on a fearful dog like Joey wich makes us sad because he is SO loving and sweet once he trusts you and knows you won't hurt him.  He tries really hard to be a brave boy and has been been making leaps and bounds in building his confidence so we know his perfect family is out there somewhere just waiting to find him!

Unfortunately, Joey's had a major medical setback.  A couple months ago, we noticed he was limping a little.  His limping got progressively worse and we took him to the vet.  It turns out he has two luxating patellas (his knee caps keep dislocating causing extreme pain).  Unfortunately, the only fix is a very intensive and expensive double knee surgery.  The surgeon said his knees were so bad he couldn't believe he wasn't showing more signs of pain.  But that's our Joey for you...always trying to put on a brave face!  Joey went into the hospital on December 18th for his surgery and, due to some post-surgery complications, the surgeon requested he stay hospitalized under their care through the holidays.  We are so sad thinking of our scared boy in the hospital all alone but we know it's for the best and he will be home and resting comfortably soon!

When we rescue a dog, we are (of course) all in no matter what comes up!  Unfortunately, we have had a few back to back medical dogs lately and Joey's surgery has completely wiped us out.  We desperately need to raise money to cover Joey's medical bills.  We know it's a tough time of year for everyone with the holidays but, if you can, please consider donating a few bucks to help Joey...no amount is too small!  It all adds up and we appreciate every dollar!  Joey thanks you from the bottom of his heart (and we do too)!  We will update Joey's progress both here and on our facebook page!

Also, we are a 501c3, so all donations are tax deductible!  THANK YOU!!