Aspen

When we rescued Aspen, we had no idea what was in store. All we knew was that a space opened up at our rescue, and we had to give her a chance. Now, several months later, she’s been made brand new. She’s flourishing in her forever home, and the pain she once knew is far in her past. Her journey wasn’t easy, but she’s made it, and we couldn’t be prouder of her.

Poor Aspen was wandering the streets, alone, after she was brutally struck by a car. By some miracle, a rescue partner of ours was en route to her back surgery appointment when she saw the broken girl. She rushed Aspen to the nearest animal hospital, where the incredible medical team dove into action.

Aspen was left with only a faint sensation in her rear paws, and while she could manage to move her bowels, she needed assistance to use her bladder. Though fragile, a glimmer of hope glinted in the sweet girl’s eyes. She wanted, so badly, to feel loved and comforted. We had no idea what she endured before this, but we were determined to make things right.

Sadly, Aspen’s injured leg was beyond repair. An urgent amputation was immediately performed to remove the limb, and she was simultaneously spayed. The vets also came to find that she had an autoimmune infection that needed to be promptly addressed.

After Aspen underwent emergency treatment, we transferred her back to our rescue. We gave her nutritious food, pain relief, antibiotics for her autoimmune infection, and anti-inflammatories. Most importantly, we ensured she had ample rest, in a cozy and safe environment, to regain her strength.

Day by day, Aspen grew considerably better. She had more feeling in her back legs, and she was even beginning to move them! As a new tripod, she spent some time getting used to the new feel of things. A beautiful light returned to her eyes, and she woke up excited for each new day.  

After weeks of focused care and determination, Aspen began learning how to get her legs under her and push herself up. The progress was incredible! Her bladder even started waking up, and she was able to urinate on occasion without assistance. She began walking, carefully, tentatively, in between moments of gentle rest.

In a heartwarming moment, Aspen decided she couldn’t wait for dinner and made a run for her room on her own! The sight of her frolicking like this left us jumping ecstatically for joy. We couldn’t believe just how far she’d come!

Of course, there were hurdles along the way. We had to frequently return to the vet due to complications with Aspen’s autoimmune infection. But over time, that began to heal as well. By April of 2025, about five months after her initial rescue, she was 100% infection-free! That day was a beautiful one. We could hardly wrap our heads around the fact that Aspen, the healthy pup in front of us, was the same broken girl we had rescued not so long ago.

The day soon came that our sweet girl was ready for her forever family, her second chapter. And not long after, a loving, amazing family stepped forward, ready to welcome her home. It was a perfect match, and we knew Aspen would be so happy there. Of course, we shed a few tears when we sent her off to her new adventure, but they were joyful tears. We will miss her with all of our hearts, but we can rest easy knowing that she will always be safe.

Aspen, now known as Willie Mae, spends her days playing outside with a large yard, doggie companions, and a huge stash of toys. She manages just fine on three legs, and she’s, at long last, free from the discomfort that once was her constant. None of this could have been possible without you!

We are so grateful to everyone who has stepped up to help Willie Mae in her time of need. Your generosity funded her ongoing medical care and offered her support during her time of need. You made a difference for an animal in need, and for that, we are so grateful. Willie Mae is living out her dream life, and we want you to know that you played an integral part in that.

Thank you, thank you, thank you!