Carolina and her son stood in the entrance hall of an animal shelter in Phoenix with tears in their eyes.
The boy held a fluffy black and brown dog close to his chest and whispered soothing words into his floppy ear from time to time.
Desperation was written all over their faces.
A stroke of fate changes the family’s life in seconds
After 13 years in their home, Carolina and her family received the news that they would have to move within just 30 days.
Despite the extremely tight housing market, the loving mother managed to find an affordable apartment that even allowed dogs.
But the high security deposit, first and last month’s rent and moving costs made it impossible for Carolina to come up with the additional pet deposit for her new landlord.
The decision was heartbreaking: either give up the new apartment and risk homelessness while she looked for another pet-friendly apartment and saved money, or give up Maggie, the beloved family dog.
Carolina knew she had to give her children a home. So, with a heavy heart, she went to the shelter from which she had joyfully adopted Maggie five years earlier.
Unexpected encounter brings hope and joy
Fortunately, the Arizona Pet Project was there to help. Within minutes of entering the shelter, Carolina’s heartache turned to pure joy.
The non-profit organization agreed to pay the deposit for Maggie’s pet so she could stay with her family.
Carolina and Maggie’s story is unfortunately not an isolated case. Every year, countless pets are surrendered to animal shelters due to financial difficulties or personal crises.
The Arizona Pet Project supports pet owners in difficult situations
Whether a pet is injured or a pet owner is faced with an illness – in times of medical crisis, the support of an animal friend is more important than ever.
When Laurie needed surgery for her severe back pain, the Arizona Pet Project cared for her beloved dog, Pippas, while Laurie was on the mend.
The project also helps dogs and their owners in many other situations. Solutions have been found for homelessness, escapes from violent partners and major financial problems.
