Chance - Hit By A Car: Fractured Pelvis, Dislocated Hip and Fractured Teeth

Chance, a two year old Lab, came to us after he was hit by a car and his owners could not afford his care. He suffered multiple pelvic fractures, internal bleeding, bruised internal organs, a dislocated hip where it attached to the spine, several fractured teeth and many abrasions. Diagnostic x-rays and blood tests helped determine the extent of his injuries. Chance required pain medications, eight weeks of strict crate rest at his foster home and dental surgery. A patient and good natured Lab his recovery is going well.

Willow - Hemivertebrae: Congenitally Deformed Spinal Vertebrae

Twelve week old Willow's tail hung limp and off-kilter in spite of her happy, wiggly body. She was also pretty uncomfortable doing her "business" outside. A thorough veterinary exam revealed she had a birth defect called hemivertebrae. Willow had deformed vertebrae that not only caused her tail to be deformed and limp, but also put painful pressure on her colon. She needed specialized orthopedic surgery to remove her tail starting internally where the vertebrae pressed on her colon.

Her surgery went well. A beautiful and joyful Lab puppy who adores being part of a family, Willow truly wags with her whole heart and soul.

Daisy - Broken Jaw from Dog Attack

Ten week old Daisy was attacked by a large powerful dog who left her with a very painful broken jaw and injured paw. She was stabilized at a local clinic and then driven across the state by a volunteer who met us at our vet partner, Alameda East Veterinary Hospital.

Oral surgeons successfully repaired Daisy's jaw. She lost some baby teeth in the process, but her adult teeth should grow in normally. The tooth fairy brought her a wonderful forever home.

Daisy injured

Daisy recovered and smiling

Leo - Fell From the Bed of a Pickup Truck: Leg Paralyzed

After falling from the bed of a pickup truck, Leo suffered severe nerve damage that left his front leg paralyzed, and shoulder bruised and very painful. An injury of this kind often results in amputation. However, our vet recommended waiting to see if the torn nerves might heal. In addition, a team of specialists took interest in Leo's case and provided extensive physical therapy, acupuncture, other state of the art therapies and special orthopedic devices. Miraculously, Leo has regained almost complete use of his leg, much to the delight of his forever family.

Leo on the treadmill

Leo with leg brace

Chester - Ill from Severe Physical Neglect

When Chester was rescued from a small rural shelter he was filthy, covered in ticks, thin and very weak, but his wonderful personality still shined through. After he was cleaned up, diagnostic blood work revealed several disorders, anemia among them, likely due to all the tick bites. With medication, rest and good nutrition, Chester recovered well and was adopted by his foster mom.

Chester in the shelter

Chester & Peg

Molly - Partially Blind from Birth and Fine Motor Skill Challenges

Molly, a two year stray with cheery disposition, was abandoned at a shelter. She clearly had some physical challenges. We made sure Molly saw an ophthalmologist and a neurologist. From these specialists we learned that she had a birth defect with her optic nerve that left her blind in one eye and partially sighted in the other. In addition, her fine motor coordination issues were also likely congenial in nature. It has improved greatly with exercise and physical therapy. She is a character and a happy, affectionate girl in spite of her special needs.

Monty - "Cherry Eye" and Profound Ear Infections

Monty, a five year old stray, came to us with both severe ear infections and "cherry eye", a congenital defect of an eye gland that causes ongoing irritation and often problems with producing tears. The eye gland was surgically repositioned into its proper place.

Many weeks of diligent ear care in his foster home and medications finally brought pain relief to Monty before he was ready for adoption.

Lilli - Multiple Senior Wellness Issues

Nine year old Lilli came to us dirty and depressed with many health needs neglected. Her infected ears needed attention, medication for urinary incontinence was prescribed and painful anal glands attended to. She was listless and lacking in the love of life that is a hallmark of Labs.

An extensive blood test helped uncover some problems that were quickly attended too. With all her issues addressed, Lilli feels much better now.

 Rosie - Orthopedic Surgery for Deformed Legs and Surgery for "Cherry Eye"

Just a baby, 13 week old Rosie, who was rescued by a Good Samaritan, had some pretty big and very expensive medical issues. Thanks to our generous supporters we were able to help this puppy. First, Rosie needed her "cherry eye", a problem with a gland on her third eyelid, surgically corrected so she would not have to suffer a life of infection prone watery eyes.

In addition, her crooked front legs needed significant orthopedic intervention so she could lead a pain free, active life when she grew up. Rosie underwent two surgeries several weeks apart to help reposition her ulna and radius to alleviate joint stress and reduce further deformation.

She recovered very well with her expert medical foster. So sweet and good natured, Rosie has won a lot of hearts in her short life.

 Rosco - Mast Cell Tumor Surgery

When three year old Rosco arrived, our vet noted he had a suspicious looking lump on his side. It was surgically removed and biopsied. The results showed that Rosco had a cancerous mast cell tumor. Fortunately, there were clean margins and he was given an good prognosis. His large incision healed well and he was able to go to his forever home.

 Abby - Knee Surgery

Shortly after Abby, a six year old stray from a rural shelter, arrived she would not bear any weight on one hind leg and was clearly in pain. X-rays revealed she had a completely torn cranial cruciate ligament in her knee. Costly orthopedic surgery was needed to restore pain free function to her knee . A long, carefully monitored recovery followed with our experienced medical foster before she could be adopted.

 Lilah - Mammary Mass Sugery

Very sick with a miserable upper respiratory infection when she arrived, two year old Lilah's troubles were just beginning. When she was well enough to be spayed, a mammary mass was discovered. A simple routine surgery turned into a much more extensive one. Fortunately, the biopsy results showed the tumor as benign. After her recovery and surgical staple removal, she was ready for adoption. We continue to see number of unspayed females every year with mammary masses, something that could be prevented if they were spayed earlier in life.e.

 Gretta and Jenny - Two Heartworm Postive Labs

Five year old Gretta came to us from Colorado's Western Slope. Two year old Jenny came to us from Nebraska. All our Labs are tested for heartworms as part of their intake vetting. While they came from different places, both these girls tested positive for life threatening heartworms. Both were hospitalized for carefully monitored treatment and both required a lengthy, quiet recovery to avoid complications, such as pulmonary embolisms, from the treatment. Had they been on inexpensive heartworm preventative, they could have been spared this costly and risky treatment.

Gretta	Jenny

 Yogi - Ulcerated Cancerous Skin Tumor Surgery and Biopsy

A local shelter called us to rescue Yogi, a good natured stray with a painful, infected weeping ulcerated lump on his back. Because of this sore, they deemed him unadoptable.

Yogi's first stop was Alameda East Veterinary Hospital where the wound was thoroughly cleaned, treated and evaluated.  A pathology report showed he had a ruptured skin tumor that needed removal. 

We are happy to report successful surgery with clean margins followed.

 Windsor - Ulcerated Cornea, Eyelid Tumor and Dental Disease

Windsor is a 12.5 year old Lab who came to us when his owners lost their home. He needed surgery for a tumor on his eyelid which caused a painful ulcerated cornea. In addition, he also had extensive dental disease requiring treatment, including the extraction of several infected teeth. Windsor, who loves fetching and the water, is about as patient, happy and good natured a pup as you will ever come across.

 Pepper - Bone Fragments Lodged in Elbow

Six year old Pepper was reluctantly left at a shelter by a gentleman who moved to assisted living. Pepper was overweight and it was soon evident that he was painfully lame. He had one large chunk of bone and several smaller chips wedged in his elbow joints. The intense pain could not be managed successfully with medication and surgery was indicated to remove the bone chips. He is very affectionate, a truly happy soul and a wonderful example of why people love a Lab's temperament

 Timber - Complex Upper Respiratory Infection and Surgery for Seroma

Four year old Timber was a stray who came to us with kennel cough from a local shelter. It progressed into a complex, challenging upper respiration infection requiring extensive antibiotic therapy and hospitalization. In addition, he had a problematical seroma at the surgical site where a mass was removed. The seroma needed to be surgically addressed. A playful and good natured Lab, Timber quickly found his forever home with several other happy Labs.

 Kelti - Pneumonia

Just nine months old, Kelti came to us from a local shelter. Shortly after her arrival, she came down with a respiratory infection she caught there. It quickly became a case of virulent pneumonia leaving this puppy feverish and lethargic. She required hospitalization for supportive care to get her pack on her paws. Her foster family fell in love with her and made her a permanent part of their family.

 Sydney - Heartworm Positive and Dental Disease

Eight year old Sydney, who came to us from Southern Colorado and lived outside in a pen for most of her life, tested positive for heartworms. She also had badly infected ears, skin allergies and several infected teeth. She received treatment and careful monitoring to kill the heartworms without peril to her health. Her infected teeth were extracted. With a special diet, medication and diligent cleaning, her ear infections have finally resolved and her allergies are under control. Frisky, a very affable character and forever young at heart, Sydney is treasured in her forever home.

 Buddy - Parvovirus

Six month old Buddy came to us with a virulent case of parvovirus that required almost a week of hospitalization with supportive care. Dehydration from severe gastrointestinal distress and secondary infection can quickly take the life of a puppy. Intravenous fluids, antibiotics, anti-nausea medication and monitoring in the intensive care unit were critical in saving his life.

Bailey - Knee Surgery

Like an active person, an active Lab can have a painful, crippling orthopedic knee injury . Bailey, an athletic four year old, needed costly surgery and a long recuperation in a foster home to repair a torn ligament in his knee before he was ready for his forever home.

Bella - Difficult Delivery of Her Puppies

While giving birth Bella, suffered a proplase of some reproductive tissue. She was left in this compromised condition for days by her owners before being taken to the vet. Two puppies had been born, but the owners wanted Bella and her babies euthanized rather than pay for her care. Fortunately, the vet clinic persuaded them to sign over Bella and the puppies. Upon examining Bella, the vet was amazed to hear a tiny heartbeat. After an emergency c-section, 2 more puppies were born and we were called to her rescue. Bella recovered well and was an exceptional mother to her puppies, all of whom found wonderful homes.

Riley - Severe Dental Disease

Older dogs like ten year old Riley often come to us with a life time of health needs that have not been addressed in a timely manner. Riley needed extensive dental work including six extractions for rotten or dead teeth that were infected and painful. After her dental surgery she had a brighter smile, felt much more chipper and she could enjoy eating again as a Lab should.

Poncho - In-grown Eyelashes

Imagine having your eyelashes turned inward and constantly scratching the surface of your eye. This condition, known as entropian, afflicted gentle 2.5 year old Poncho for his whole life. Squinting though constant tears and irritated eyes, the world hardly looked bright until our vet was able to surgically correct this painful condition.

Gracie - Enlarged Heart

Labs are known for their big loving hearts, but in seven year old Gracie's case, she truly had an physiologically enlarged heart due to heart disease. Her condition was diagnosed by our canine cardiologist as dilated cardiomyopathy. With drug therapy, Gracie is able to live a normal happy life with her forever family.

Logan - Intestinal Blockage

Seven month old Logan, a typical active and curious young Lab who loves to chew, was brought to the emergency room very sick and in great pain with a life threatening intestinal blockage. Emergency surgery was needed to remove a large "foreign body" and save his life. In his forever home, approved chewable and a watchful eye are the order of the day.

Mocha - Kennel Cough, Cancer and Dental Disease

Thirteen year old Mocha's family left her at a shelter and moved away. Not only did Mocha come to us sick with kennel cough from a long stay in a shelter, but she was diagnosed with mammary cancer and several infected teeth. Surgery to remove her tumor was successful. Painful teeth were extracted. Mocha was a good natured patient though all her treatments and grateful to find a senior Lab loving forever family.

Lacy - Hit by a Car; Emergency Orthopedic Surgery

Lacy recovering in ICU after surgery at Alameda East Veterinary Hospital.

Three year old Lacy was hit by a car, left by the side of the road and found by a Good Samaritan who got her to Alameda East Veterinary Hospital. When her owners were finally located, they signed her over to the hospital to be euthanized because they could not afford her care. The hospital contacted us for assistance. Our orthopedic specialist found her pelvis was fractured in several places and her hip dislocated in two places. Lacy also had multiple broken teeth. Lacy was remarkable in her gentleness in spite the great pain of this traumatic injury.

We are most appreciative of a very special family who generously sponsored Lacy's care.

Farley - Heartworm Positive; Special Treatment Required

Farley, pictured here awaiting rescue, tested positive for heartworm.

Six year old Farley came to us from a shelter on the Western Slope. All our Labs are tested for heartworms upon arrival. The majority test negative, but every year we see a number that are positive, as in Farley's case. Hospitalization and carefully monitored treatment is required to kill these life threatening parasites. This is followed by a strict quiet 6-8 week recovery period to avoid emboli and other complications. Farley recovered well and is now in his forever home.

Drake - Massive Bone Infection

Drake struggled to survive witha temperature of 106 degrees.

Drake came to us as a stray from a rural shelter. Our vet noted he had an unusual "cow hocked" stance and soon Drake became non-weight on one leg, was losing weight and lethargic. He was taken to the emergency room, had a temperature of 106 degrees and put in intensive care. He struggled to survive for several days. Diagnostic work revealed he had multiple old pelvic fractures and double hip surgery (FHO's). The very painful bone infection was likely a result of this surgery done sometime in his past before arriving at Safe Harbor.

Sophie - Aspiration Pneumonia; Megaesophagus - A Congenital Defect

Sophie requires elevated feeding and special food for a congenital defect of her esophagus.

We treated Sophie, a very thin two year old rescue from a local shelter for aspiration pneumonia. Based on other troubling symptoms, our vet did further diagnostic work. He determined Sophia has a congenital defect of her esophagus that does not allow food to properly enter the stomach. We determined surgical intervention was too risky, costly and the outcome uncertain. Our vet counseled her adoptive family that she will always be a special needs dog and how to successfully manage her condition. She is now thriving.

Daisy - Shelter Puppy with Pneumonia

Daisy waiting to be seen at the hospital.

Five month old Daisy was so terrified in a local shelter she was deemed unadoptable and we were called to her rescue. For such a young dog we noted she was extremely lethargic and had upper respiratory infection symptoms. Several serious diseases were suspected by the vet. Testing revealed she had virulent pneumonia caused by multiple strains of bacteria. Hospitalization and a lengthy course of antibiotics were required to make her well enough to go to a forever home.

Shilo - Surgery for injured Knee

Shilo needed knee surgery.

Shilo, a 5 year old Lab, was taken to a shelter after her owner was incarcerated. A Good Samaritan familiar with the family's plight rescued Shilo and got her safely to us. Shilo arrived with a painful knee injury. She needed orthopedic surgery to stabilize her knee, alleviate her pain and restore her mobility.

Holly - Skin Condition

Just 10 weeks old, Holly was picked up as a stray and scheduled to be euthanized by a shelter because she had multiple patches of hair missing on her legs and inside of her thighs. Thanks to the timely intervention of a Good Samaritan, she was spared and brought to us for medical care. Diagnostic work is currently in process to determine the nature of the problem and treatment will be started soon for this otherwise very happy, wiggly puppy. In foster care she will get the love and attention she's missed.

Saving this very young life was possible because of your kind support of our efforts.

Ginger - Pneumonia

The kennel cough Ginger caught in crowded a shelter had already turned into pneumonia by the time we rescued her. Chest x-rays confirmed this was the cause her lethargy, fever, congestion and coughing.

After a month long course of antibiotics, supportive care and rest in her foster home, another set of x-rays confirmed her chest was finally clear and she was ready for her forever home.

Gibson - Heartworm Postive

Frisky and active, one year old Gibson went in for his routine vet exam and heartworm test. Unfortunately, he tested positive heartworms, a parasite transmitted by mosquitoes. Without treatment these parasites, that reside and grow in the heart and pulmonary arteries, can take a dog's life. The treatment, costly and unpleasant, requires hospitalization and six weeks of crate rest — a tall order for a young Lab.

With your help, we are committed to giving the best care we can to each and every Lab we rescue; Labs like young Gibson who has so much love to give a family of his own.

Corky - Fly Bites

There wasn't much comfort for Corky on hot days. Left outdoors, the tops of his ears were mercilessly attacked by biting flies leaving them raw, infected and miserably itchy. On top of this, he became sick with kennel cough in a shelter with few resources while he waited for an owner who never came. Once rescued, we made sure he was given the medical care he needed to be well and pain free, before placing him as a loved companion.

Austin - Multiple Health Issues Diminishing Quality of Life

AUSTIN - Multiple Health Issues Diminishing Quality of Life
When 8-9 year Austin came to us after three months in a shelter, we found not only a Lab with a heart of gold, but one whose health had been severely neglected. Both ears were infected, he had "happy tail" (a bloodied tail from wagging against the concrete shelter kennel walls), an irritated pressure wound on his elbow, dental issues, an oral abscess and most troubling, he would not bear weight on a hind leg.

We addressed each of his many health needs, including the leg that required orthopedic surgery to remove damaged/diseased bone in a hip joint. Along his road to wellness, Austin was a good-natured, cooperative and affectionate patient. Fortunately, his pain and neglect are just a memory now.

In consultation with our vet partners, we feel strongly about restoring the quality of life to every Lab we rescue. We are very grateful for your support that makes it possible.

Orion - Massive Infection from Bite Wounds

A gentle and submissive soul, young Orion was attacked by another dog. The resulting puncture wounds became abscessed. Orion was lethargic and even food held no interest as the infection spread causing painful swelling. A very sick youngster, Orion required emergency surgery to drain and clean the abscessed area, antibiotics and pain medication. After five 5 days in the hospital, he was stable enough to go to a special medical foster. Now he could look forward to a caring forever home as soon as he was fully recovered.

Thoughtful donations from Lab lovers like you helped us get Orion back on his paws.

Bunny - Complex Fracture

Bunny arrived at a rural shelter in pain and limping badly, but still a friendly girl full of trust. When no one came for her, the shelter called us to help.

The x-rays (see below) taken by our orthopedic surgeon showed a broken femur. Because of the delay in getting proper medical attention, it was challenging for the surgeon to reposition and align. A rod and screws were implanted to stabilize the bone as it heals. "She was in pain a long time and a very tough little girl," remarked our vet.

Bunny's surgery and rehabilitation are very much like what a person might have with a similar fracture Once healed, she can look forward to a normal, pain free and active Lab life. Many people are fortunate enough to have insurance to cover such an catastrophic injury.

Bunny, being a Lab however, very much appreciates any support Safe Harbor's kind friends can give to help with the sizeable cost of repairing her leg so her future can be bright.

Reggie, Charlie and James - Parvovirus

The joy of rescuing a litter of five beautiful yellow Lab puppies quickly turned to sorrow when, shortly after their arrival, three came down with life threatening parvovirus. This virus attacks the lining of a puppy's intestines causing severe vomiting and diarrhea. The strain of the virus that attacked the puppies was particularly virulent. Dehydration and secondary infections can quickly take a puppy's life. These three required extensive support and lengthy stays in ICU at the hospital; fortunately all survived.

Three babies in ICU was extremely costly, but how could we deny them their futures as wonderful Labs.

Gabe - Pneumonia

One year old Gabe arrived with a case of pneumonia so severe that x-rays showed his lungs were one third full of fluid. The vet gave a very guarded prognosis about recovery. In addition, he was utterly emaciated. Nebulizer treatments, a month of antibiotic therapy and a careful weight gain plan finally got Gabe on his paws again.

Diagnostics, medications and his follow up care were expensive; Gabe is grateful to be feeling chipper once again.

Macy - Pregnant and Nursing Mom

Very pregnant, scared and lost Macy, was picked up as a stray. Within a short time after being impounded, she gave birth to a little family of 7 puppies all alone in an animal shelter. Six survived there. Once in our care Macy and her puppies flourished.

As you can imagine the proper care and expense of a new Lab family is quite a significant commitment for our all volunteer organization.

Gunner - Intestinal Blockage

Gunner was surrendered to a vet hospital to be euthanized after ingesting a towel that caused a life threatening intestinal blockage. He underwent emergency surgery and had a very painful, rocky and lengthy recovery, but he pulled through thanks to top notch veterinary care and our dedicated medical foster mom.

Your generous support is what makes it possible for us to save the life of a Lab like Gunner who required extensive veterinary treatment to survive.

Bruce

Bruce being taken to Alameda East Veterinary Hospital Emergency room.

Three year old Bruce was hit by a car and abandoned by his owners. A Good Samaritan came to his rescue, then drove two hours to get him to us. Our orthopedic specialist found the leg was broken in six places, including through the ball of the femur, and recommended amputation.

Bruce was remarkable in his gentleness in spite the intense pain of this traumatic injury. He recovered well with our medical foster experienced in the care of amputees and was quickly adopted.

Donney

Donney in a local shelter with prevalent kennel cough and canine influenza awaiting our rescue.

Nine month old Donney was left at an older shelter by his family. Conditions there were such that Donney was exposed to canine influenza that manifested itself after his rescue. It rapidly progressed to a virulent case of life threatening pneumonia requiring chest xrays and emergency hospitalization in the ICU for fluids and treatment.

Lia

Lia recovering after surgery to repair lacerated paws.

Gentle and affectionate Lia, an eight year old Lab and shelter rescue, came to us with kennel cough, an ear infection and a broken tooth with an exposed root.

Lacerations to her paws required surgery. In addition, she was diagnosed with clinical separation anxiety requiring special medication and placement.

Sawyer

Sawyer recovering from heartworm treatment in his foster home.

Sawyer came to us from a rural shelter in southeastern Colorado. All our Labs are routinely tested for heartworms. The majority test negative, but every year we see a number that are positive, as in Sawyer's case.

Hospitalization and carefully monitored treatment is required to kill these life threatening parasites. A quiet 6-8 week recovery period is required to avoid emboli and other complications.

Isaac

Isaac awaiting surgery for a large tumor on his paw.

Once Isaac recovered from the upper respiratory infection he contracted at a shelter, he underwent almost three hours of surgery to address his numerous medical issues — a large tumor on his paw, another under his tail and multiple fractured teeth with roots exposed. Initially the vet thought the toe would require amputation due to the size of the tumor, but with delicate, skilled surgery he was able to keep it.

Molly

Molly lived outside with a crippling injury and no shelter before she was rescued.

When Molly arrived it had been two months since she was struck by a car. She was never taken to the vet and left crippled and in pain.

Kept outside with no shelter, Molly was finally rescued by a Good Samaritan who got her to Safe Harbor. Her dislocated hip required orthopedic surgery for a femoral head ostectomy (FHO) to alleviate her pain and restore her mobility.

Sara

Sara’s owner abandoned her in a cold garage and went onto other things in life that didn’t include her, especially since she was pregnant.

Once in our care, and within a day of her rescue, 15 month old Sara gave birth to 8 puppies surrounded by warmth and caring.

The proper care of a litter and mom is a major and costly commitment, but what a joy it is to help this new little family.

Trigger

Eight year old Trigger was left at a shelter because: “He’s old and blind in one eye and no one plays with him.” When we rescued him, we found a playful, happy and loving Lab in spite of tremendous pain from glaucoma. He required surgery to remove the painfully swollen blind eye.

Fate was not kind to Trigger; he also tested positive for life-threatening heartworms, a condition that requires expensive, carefully monitored treatment. A tall order for this good-natured guy to go through, but thanks to your kind support, Trigger will enjoy a loving forever home.

Toffee

The Denver area is one of the worst in the country for cases of canine influenza. Two year old Toffee came down with the flu which quickly turned into a virulent case of pneumonia. She was too sick and weak to eat, drink or even greet people and was rapidly declining. She spent several days in ICU for critically needed supportive care.

As with people, a stay in ICU is costly, but often needed to save a life.

Sadie

Soon after 8 month old Sadie arrived from a shelter, her foster mom noticed she was reluctant to go up stairs, get up and was often lame after playing. X-rays confirmed Sadie had osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) in both shoulders, a painful debilitating condition found in large young dogs, which is the result of damaged or diseased cartilage. The cause can be a genetic, trauma, rapid growth or nutrition.

The bottom line for Sadie was that expensive shoulder surgery and a lengthy recovery in foster care was required for her to have a pain-free life. She’s pictured here in a physical therapy session on an underwater treadmill.

Maggie

Gentle, loving 6-7 year old Maggie was abandoned at a shelter. Our vet found she had progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) that left her 80-90% blind. This blinding genetic condition caused her no discomfort and there is nothing that can be done for it.

Her painful raw, infected and scarred ears told another story and required extensive care. We treat many ear infections, but the severity of Maggie’s case required extraordinary and costly care.

Allie

Three year old Allie had her puppies and then was left behind at a shelter when her family moved away. Our vet examined her tearing, sore red eye and discovered she had entropion, a genetic condition in which the eyelids fold inward. It’s pretty miserable since the eyelashes constantly rub against the cornea.

Delicate surgery was needed to correct the situation. Allie thanks you for your support that helped her see the world a little more clearly and brightly.

Lindsey

A few days after one-and-half year old Lindsey arrived, she was overcome with a massive, life threatening, toxic infection that required emergency surgery to save her life.

Abscesses on internal organs had to be addressed surgically and monitoring in intensive care was required.

Fortunately, with expert care she pulled through and can look forward to a happy life as a well loved friend.

Pepper

Pepper, just two years old, came to us with the most advanced care of heartworm disease our rescue has seen since its inception in 2002.

Expensive, carefully monitored treatment, painful at times, will take weeks to rid her of the heartworms that could take her life.

Coda

Twelve week old Coda was surrendered to the vet and then to us when his owners could not afford the extensive care he needed for what looked like a loosing battle with a virulent infection.

After treatment in intensive care, testing and dedicated care by our vet partners, things are looking brighter for this little guy.

Beau

One year old Beau ingested a sizable rubber object. He was hospitalized with a life-threatening intestinal blockage that required emergency surgery.

Fortunately he was treated in time.

Homer

Homer came to us after he was left in an overnight “dog deposit box” at a local shelter. Even though he was only 9 months old, his right front leg had an old, untreated fracture that left him crippled with a bent leg.

Disabled at such a young age, we wanted to make sure Homer could look forward to a comfortable life as an active dog. His expensive corrective orthopedic surgery involved re-breaking, correctly aligning the bones and inserting adjustable hardware to help lengthen atrophied muscles.

Homer's bent leg	Homer with cast and devoted friends

Maggie

Maggie’s life hasn’t been easy. She was picked up as a stray and impounded in a small rural shelter with few resources where dogs are given “little time”. Her owner decided he didn’t want her any more and walked away; fortunately a Good Samaritan rescued her and got her to us. But life had a cruel twist for this beautiful girl – once in our care she tested positive for life-threatening heartworms.

Maggie is undergoing lengthy and expensive treatment, not without risks, to kill off the parasites in her heart that would eventually take her life. A further complication in Maggie’s case is, that while in foster care it became clear she was well along in a high risk pregnancy (as heartworm treatment was in progress and had to be temporarily suspended) that she needed to carry to term on the advice of our veterinarian. Maggie successfully delivered and cared for nine puppies.

Spree

Barely eight weeks old, little Spree was picked up as a stray in the middle of winter. When she arrived at the shelter there was concern about her dangling, unusable front leg and they called us for help. Eager to explore her world like any puppy, Spree did her best to maneuver on three legs, but fell often.

An orthopedic specialist at CSU examined Spree for us. He found everything from her foot to her shoulder severely deformed and that her useless leg required amputation.

Spree’s surgery went well and she’s a happily settled in her forever home.

Spree before surgery	Post surgery - a happy Spree!

As you can imagine, Spree’s medical care including x-rays, surgery and post surgical care was costly. We very much appreciate your generous support of Safe Harbor’s efforts so we could help this precious little girl.

Thunder

Four year old Thunder tested positive for heartworms. During the lengthy treatment he developed some serious complications that required emergency medical care. First, blood clots were detected in his lungs and he came down with a case of pneumonia virulent enough that he had to be hospitalized. In addition, the stress of his illness and heartworm treatment caused serious gastro-intestinal issues (bloat) that required emergency surgery.

Thunder not feeling so well	Thunder now romps!

A happy survivor thanks to your support, Thunder had a second chance to be a well loved family member.

Abbey (formerly Riley Jae)

Riley Jae (now Abbey) Healed and one of the family

With her pelvis broken in three places, Riley Jae found herself in a shelter unwanted and in tremendous pain with a very dim future.

Good Samaritans doing their best to help Riley Jae, let us know about this injured 11 month old young girl who was sleeping outdoors as winter weather set in. X-rays and diagnostic evaluation indicate this little girl will need medication, special care and an extended period of confinement with one of our medical fosters to heal.

Riley Jae - before

Your donations to the Lab Life Line Fund helped support Riley Jae on her road to recovery and journey to a well-deserved forever home.

Myah

All a healthy puppy can be now!

Eight week old Myah was miraculously rescued by a Good Samaritan just before she was put in a burlap bag and tossed into a lake.

The blind, deformed eyes of this otherwise beautiful little girl, made her useless to her owner. Our eye specialist determined the sightless, unhealthy, malformed eyes need to be removed to prevent a life time of problems.

A completely normal, happy puppy in all other respects Myah can now look forward to a loving forever home when she is healed.

Myah - before

Thanks to the generosity of donations from Lab lovers like you, Myah is now a happy, healthy puppy.

Samantha

Samantha - Home, happy and loved

We knew Samantha, picked up as a stray, had a wonderful temperament and was blind when a rural shelter called us for help. When she arrived, her tail was wagging, but her bulging eyes and squint were signs of painful advanced glaucoma.

To make matters worse, our vet found she had infected ears and tested as positive for life threatening heartworms. She will undergo carefully monitored heartworm treatment and receive medication for her ears and eye pain. The last step on her journey to wellness is eye surgery for the glaucoma.

Samantha - before

Samanatha is a Lab who is being cherished in a forever home thanks to your thoughtful gift to the Lab Life Line Fund.

Mocha

The shelter considered Mocha unadoptable due to painful ear infections and bleeding infected sores on her front legs. They knew she was a great Lab who deserved a chance, so they asked us to help find her a home. Mocha required surgery to clean and stitch her sores, a special ear cleaning under anesthesia and several medications.

It was costly to get her ready for her forever home…but how could we say no to such a wonderful girl who deserves a second chance. All of us, and especially Mocha, appreciate your support of the Lab Life Line Fund.

Bella

When Bella came from the shelter, her ears were bloody, visibly infected and so painful she cried at the slightest touch. To relieve her tremendous pain she required several medications and sedation for a delicate deep ear cleaning procedure. After a life of chronic ear infections, her ears are so filled with scar tissue that they are difficult to clean and effectively medicate. Our Lab Life Line Fund supported by Lab lovers like you is there for the beautiful girl.

Emma (formerly Ava)

Beautiful, gentle natured Emma was abandoned as a stray at a shelter. Our vets found ear infections, food allergies and, most troubling of all, a sizable tumor on her mammary glands. Surgery was performed to remove the mass and all are grateful it was a success. We are committed to giving the Labs in our program the treatment they need to be adoptable and have a good quality of life.

As for people, cancer care is costly, but it made all the difference to Emma.

Austin

After being left at a shelter, Austin found his way to us and required immediate medical attention. First, there was surgery for a painful gum infection. More seriously, he had to undergo further delicate eye surgery, to correct an eyelid deformity that could lead to a lifetime of eye infections and constant irritation. In spite of swelling and pain, Austin’s good nature shined through it all.

Your donations to the Lab Life Line Fund made a huge difference for this wonderful young boy.

Saul

Picked up as a stray Saul was in dire straits and deemed unadoptable by a shelter because of severe ear infections. Good natured, but obviously in great pain, we took him immediately to Alameda East Veterinary Hospital. His right ear had a slight yeast infection. The left ear was, as our Medical Coordinator noted, “just horrible – there was tremendous bacterial infection, swelling and the ear was bleeding at the slightest touch”. Saul was diagnosed with three different infections. One was resistant to readily available medication and a specially formulated drug had to be flown in.

Your support of the Lab Life Line made all the difference in the world to this sweet boy so desperately in need of care to relieve his suffering and get him ready for his well deserved forever home.

Puppies

Zeke, Sophie and Charlie were brought to us from deplorable conditions when our vets suspect they were a mere 6 weeks old. They weighed only 5 – 6 pounds with tummies distended from parasites and dull, brittle straw-like coats — a far cry from the soft cuddly little Lab puppies most people think of. Each tiny puppy was malnourished, dehydrated and fighting severe intestinal and upper respiratory disease.

They required several trips to the emergency room, extensive veterinary treatment and almost around the clock care by their foster parents to survive.

Your support of our Lab Life Line Fund to help pay for the costly care to save their lives made all the difference for these puppies who will indeed survive and flourish in the warm love of their new families.

While tiny, they send you an enormous “thank you!”

Regina, Kenzi and Ashley's Story

Ragina	Kenzi	Ashley

Ragina, Kenzi and Ashley are three young purebred Labs who were rescued together from a bad situation. Upon arrival each was immediately vetted. All were filthy, underweight and so dehydrated they gulped down snow once outside.

We learned that little Regina had such severe dental disease, her infected gums bled at the slightest touch and that she had a hernia. We made sure Regina’s dental health was restored so she can eat without pain. Her hernia was repaired.

Sweet Ashley, who spent her life as a breeder, had life threatening infection, pyometra, as well as alopecia, a condition resulting in balding and hair loss. We made sure she received the vet support and nutrition needed to restore her overall health.

And gentle 4 year old Kenzie, also a discarded breeder, was diagnosed by our canine ophthalmologist with progressive retinal atrophy, an untreatable genetic condition that will leave her blind.

Meeting the medical needs of these callously discarded, but deserving three girls, was a substantial cost for us. We are most appreciative of the generous financial support of Lab lovers, like you, who make it possible to give these innocent, gentle souls a second chance at life as a healthy and loved companion.

Riley's Story

Riley before	Riley after

Homeless at holiday season, Riley was so frightened by his misfortune that he cowered and shook in the back corner of his kennel. Once rescued and in our care, we found an affectionate, easy-going, well behaved treasure of a Lab. We were concerned, however, by large lump on his thigh. Our vet confirmed it was cancerous and surgery was immediately performed to remove the mass. To everyone’s relief, this timely surgery was successful and Riley’s prognosis is excellent.

As it is for humans with cancer, surgery and post-operative care is very expensive. We deeply appreciate your donations that made it possible for Riley to have for a wonderful and healthy future as a treasured companion.

Lexi's Story

Lexi before	Lexi after

Lexi’s guardian angel was on her shoulder when she walked through the door of a hospital and into our arms. Running stray at a busy intersection on a below freezing afternoon, a Good Samaritan brought this badly injured 9 month old girl to the hospital.

She had a large, deep, raw gash on her leg and black patches of frostbite on her ears. As you can see from her photo, she was utterly emaciated and dehydrated. She was stabilized by the emergency room staff at Wheat Ridge Animal Hospital and underwent surgery for the repair of her wound almost immediately. Safe weight gain was carefully monitored as was the frostbite.

Thanks to your thoughtful donations we are able to help dogs like Lexi who through no fault of their own find themselves homeless and cruelly injured and in need of our loving care before going to their forever home.

Luke's Story

When Luke arrived, the immediate concern was his leg, injured in a car accident as a puppy and never attended too, would need amputation. Grossly obese, he was in pain and lethargic. Our orthopedic specialist found that with a substantial weight loss, physical conditioning and a special orthopedic boot Luke could manage very well with his leg.

Luke’s gentle, every-happy, uncomplaining spirit, has won the heart of everyone who worked with him. While we were fortunate to have some professional services donated for his extensive care, x-rays and orthopedic evaluation were expensive. They were possible for this deserving Lab because your thoughtful support of our Lab Life Line Fund.

Tyra's Story

When Tyra arrived she was evaluated for epilepsy and a skin condition that caused an uncomfortable, malodorous yeast infection. Looking into her trusting eyes we found one eye had a dilated pupil and the other a constricted one, suggesting an underlying neurological issue.

“Thanks to your help I got top notch vet care — my skin and coat are pretty again and, after some special tests, the vet found my pupils don’t match because I have Horner’s Syndrome from some nerve damage in my neck. I’m feeling great in my forever home now . . . thank you again!”

Beau's Story

Seven year old Beau is feeling like a pup again! Sore and achy after a long shelter stay, Beau never complained. Diagnostic x-rays revealed considerable arthritic changes in his elbows. The right meds have him enjoying his walks these days. But that’s not all he’s thankful for . . . a lump on his belly turned out to be a cancerous mast cell tumor. Our vet removed it and happily all is well.

Surgical and diagnostic procedures to help give our rescued Labs the best possible start in their new lives are costly and your thoughtful donations are much appreciated!

Marletoo's Story

Marletoo is a smiling and frisky boy again! He was abandoned at a vet hospital with a three week hip old injury after being hit by a car.  Confused and in terrible pain, he was withdrawn and scared.  Hip surgery to repair the damaged joint, attentive care at Animal Lodge at VCA Alameda East Vet Hospital and finally the perfect forever home have Marletoo feeling on top of the world!

“Thanks for helping Safe Harbor help me with your donation to the Lab Life Line Fund!” wags a grateful Marletoo.

Zuri's Story

Zuri before	Zuri after

Young Zuri is delighted to tell you he’s a happy tail waggin’ Lab again! 

Critically ill with canine influenza and a virulent case of pneumonia this little guy has recovered completely after two emergency hospitalizations and loads of TLC. 

“Thank you for your donations to the Lab Life Line Fund,” wags Zuri.  “I’d never have made it without you!”

Kate's Story

Kate’s heart has lots more room for love now!  Our pretty little girl tested positive for heartworms during her routine vetting with us.  Her long and expensive treatment was successful and she back to romping after her carefully monitored recuperation.

Thanks to your support our Lab Life Line Fund we can take care of rescued Labs like Kate who need an extra special measure of care before they can go to their forever home.

Jack's Story

Jack befor	Jack after

Full of pep, Jack is once again the picture of a beautiful healthy young Lab! During a long shelter stay, Jack contracted life threatening pneumonia. His lung capacity was so diminished he could neither bark nor cough and he was debilitated by a high fever. An expensive hospital stay and treatments were needed to save his life  “A huge ‘thank you’ to everyone who helped me get better with a gift to the Lab Life Line Fund!” wags Jack with as big healthy woof.

Jameson's Story

Jameson	post-surgery

Handsome, gentle Jameson is fully recovered from his extensive surgery to remove a baseball size lump near his shoulder.  The deeply imbedded lump impaired his movement and made breathing difficult.  Jameson told us, “I’m feeling great now thanks to all the Lab lovers out there with big hearts like mine who helped with my surgery costs.  And best of all I love my forever home . . . Thank you everyone!”

Molly's Story

Molly came to us when a Good Samaritan brought her to us after her large family was evicted from their home.  When this 18 month old Lab arrived, she was blind in one eye with severe, very painful glaucoma. The eye, hugely swollen and painful, could not be saved and had to be removed. Completely recovered now and with a charming wink, this frisky ever adaptable little girl can look forward to life free of pain as a well loved Lab in her forever home.

Thanks to your generous contributions to the Lab Life Line Fund, we can provide that “extra mile of care” for Labs like Molly who need the family of Lab lovers to ease their pain and make them well again. 

Healthy Happy Hearts Again!

Hayden	Ian

All our rescued Labs are tested for life threatening heartworms. Both Hayden and Ian tested positive and had to undergo lengthy, carefully monitored treatment to rid their hearts of these worms. Had they been on readily available heartworm preventative medication, they could have avoided the risky and expensive treatment needed to save their lives.  Happily, both are hale and hearty now after several months of treatment and rest and are happily home at last!

Our adoption fee can nowhere near cover the high cost to treat a heartworm positive dog.  Your donation to the Lab Life Line Fund makes it possible for us to save the lives of these Labs.  Thank you!

Marco Is Feeling Great!

Marco before	Marco after

For the first time in ages, Marco feels great like every Lab should.  His inflamed skin has healed; the ear infections and ticks are a distant memory.  Our canine eye specialist tells us Marco will always be blind, yet how he amazes and inspires everyone as he happily wags and cruises through life without a care. 

After quite a journey, Marco asked us to send a huge “thank you” to all the caring Lab Life Line supporters who were part of those helping hands who made all the difference for him.

Noah's Ready for Play Dates!

“Get out your calendar and circle a date for me,” smiles Noah. “I’m ready to play!”  7-8 month old Noah had to put puppy playing on the back burner for a few months while he recuperated from orthopedic surgery to repair his broken leg and dislocated hock.  A pretty bad case of pneumonia slowed him up too.  All that’s behind him now and a happily ever after story awaits.  Noah asked us to pass on this message: “Thank you and a great big puppy kiss to everyone who helped me with their support of the Lab Life Line Fund!”

Gus Is Ready to Romp Again!

Gus is happy to be up and running on all four paws again!  Surgery on his complex hind leg fractures was a success and his days as an emaciated, crippled Lab running on the Interstate are a faded memory.  “I’ve heard we Labs have big loving hearts,” smiles Gus “But, gosh so do all you Lab lovers! 

Thank you for supporting the Lab Life Line Fund so I could be put back together again!” 

Home and healthy at last, Gus is ready to romp through life thanks to your help.

Jessie's Got a Lot to Smile About

Jessie before	Jessie after

Frolicking and frisking are back on Jessie’s agenda! Nice long walks, trips to the park and romps with dog buddies will fill her days once again. Labs loves to be out and about, but sweet, gentle Jessie, who was hit by a car and had heartworm, was very patient about following doctor’s strict orders for rest and recuperation. But finally her broken pelvis has healed; the major surgery on her dislocated hip and her heartworm treatment were successful. “A huge thank you,” smiles Jessie, “for helping me get back on my paws again by supporting the Lab Life Line Fund. I couldn’t have done with you.  Hope to see you at the park soon!”

Dusty's Summer Looks Bright Now!

Dusty When Rescued	Dusty Now

“Thank you,” wags Dusty, “to everyone who helped me so I can run and play this summer!” Our thanks too to all those who wished her well as she recovers from orthopedic surgery to repair her neglected fractured foot. 

Her lengthy surgery involved a bone transplant, realignment of her ankle bone and insertion of a metal plate  Without it though, this two year old girl would have been permanently crippled and her leg unusable. 

As you may recall, Dusty was abandoned in a shelter with a neglected fracture and no cast for support.  Although sweet tempered and good natured, we knew from her yelps how painful her injury was.

Dusty will wear a cast for a few months and then it’ll be time to enjoy life like a typical two year old Lab.  What a difference your support has made for Dusty!

Mr. Happy is Happy Once Again!

Feeling frisky and happy to breathe freely again after a good romp, Mr. Happy is back to his mischievous self thanks to your support of the Lab Life Line Fund. 

Just a big 9 month old puppy rescued from a shelter, Mr. Happy was critically ill with a temperature of over 105 degrees and severe upper respiratory distress. He was rushed to the hospital where he remained for several days for care and special treatments. 

As with people, hospitalization is costly for our very sick rescued Labs.  We’re delighted that your support of our Lab Life Line Fund helped put the “Happy” back in Mr. Happy!

Carly & Casey Update: Two Young Labs Send Their Heartfelt Thanks!!

Carly When Rescued	Carly Now

Carly, Casey and all of us at Safe Harbor would like to thank everyone for their generous support and kind wishes for Carly and Casey.  What a difference you’ve made!  Your recent contributions to the Lab Life Line Fund helped bring back their happy, lively Lab smiles and tails that never stop wagging.

Their new pictures say it all!  Healthy and happy, Carly and Casey are now ready for the next part of their journey – each finding their own forever home.  

Casey When Rescued	Casey Now

As you recall, these two helpless Labs were abandoned at a shelter, Carly with a blinded eye and Casey with a broken jaw.  Both were so sick and debilitated that, upon their rescue, they were immediately rushed to the hospital for life saving treatment.They remained there for several days until well enough to go to their foster home for full recovery. Later our eye specialist found that Carly’s eye is permanently blind, but gives her no discomfort.  Board Certified Surgeons x-rayed and evaluated Casey’s broken jaw. They advised that since the traumatic injury has healed and causes no pain, that it is best to spare him a complex, painful surgery.  However, Casey did require extensive oral surgery to remove a number of fractured, abscessed teeth as a result of the blow to his head.

Once again we, and especially Carly and Casey, send our heartfelt thanks for your generous support of the Lab Life Line Fund that helped make their future so bright!