Special Needs Animals
Pets Need Your Help!
More animals than ever before are coming to HSWM in dire need of expensive veterinary care. Due to the current economic conditions, many people are forced to surrender their pets because they can no longer afford to feed and care for them. Our medical expenses have gone up significantly during the past year or so and the number of animals needing life-saving care is constantly increasing.
The Emily Kantor Fund
This fund was established in memory of Emily Kantor who was only 13 years old when she died in 1995. Because of her love for animals, her family established this memorial fund in her name at the Missoula Humane Society. The fund is specifically used for animals arriving at the shelter in need of live-saving medical attention. This fund has provided hundreds of animals with a second chance at a better life.
The Animals
Read the stories below for more information on animals currently in need of medical care. Just click the "Donate Now" button next to the picture of the animal you would like to help. Be sure to tell us the name of the animal when you fill out the donation form.
Abby
Abby is an adorable senior kitty who was abandoned by her owners and left to fend for herself. Luckily a neighbor brought her to us, and we have enjoyed having her around! She was in desperate need of a dental when she arrived, and like all older cats needed some bloodwork done as well. Now we just need to find her a great home!
Roo
Roo is a 1 year old Border Collie who was born with a deformed right front leg. Although she gets along just fine as a 3-legged dog, she may require surgery to have that leg removed. She is a very shy girl but is coming around a little more each day, and loves to greet her favorite people with big smiles!
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Phoebe
Phoebe is one of our very special older kitties who was brought to us after her owner passed away. She was understandably a little grumpy when she first came to the shelter, but her true personality has been able to shine through after a much needed dental! She is now a favorite among staff, greeting us with cute little meows and chirps every morning!
Sampson
This handsome fella is on a prescription diet for chronic urinary tract infections. He is one of the most affectionate kitties around, and loves a good brushing!
Sophie
Sophie is an adorable senior cat who was brought in when her owner was unable to care for her anymore. She is being treated for hyperthyroidism and takes medication twice daily.
Trix
Trix is a gorgeous long-haired cat who has been diagnosed with diabetes. He gets daily insulin shots and is currently residing next door at Animal Blessings pet hospital.
Penny
Penny is an 11 year old short haired cat who is on a prescription diet for chronic urinary tract infections. She is a funny cat with a great personality! Luckily she does well on her special food and is ready to find a forever home!
ADOPTED: These special needs animals have found their forever homes!
Frankie
This little kitten has quite a story to tell! Although no one knows for sure exactly what happened to him, the vet can only guess that he was stuck in the fan belt of a car! Unfortunately whatever it was that he went through left him with a broken jaw, broken toe, broken tail, and a broken leg! Poor little guy--good thing he has kept a positive attitude throughout it all!

UPDATE: Luckily Frankie didn't have to wait too long for a happy ending to his unbelievable story! We know his new mom is going to adore his sweet personality!
Goldy
Goldy is an 8 year old Golden Retriever who was found soaking wet, just out of the river, and obviously lost. We have yet to locate an owner, but we are taking good care of her and keeping her comfortable--you can usually find her lounging in one of our back offices. She still needs some veterinary care including bloodwork, lump removal, and a dental. And in the meantime, she absolutely loves to have visitors in "her" office! Feel free to come in and say hi anytime. 
UPDATE: We are excited to announce that Goldy found a fabulous new home with some true Golden Retriever lovers! We know she will be very happy!
Beau
Beau came to us after being hit by a car. His family could not afford to treat him and he was going to be euthanized. Beau got a second chance when he arrived here at HSWM. He needed an expensive surgery to fix the injuries he sustained when he was hit by the car. He is just a pup and has plenty of time and love left to live! Special thanks to Dr. Zirbel and Dr. Scherr.

Beau has had his surgery and is recovering at Animal Blessings Pet Hospital. He is doing great but rehabilitation is crucial for his leg to heal properly. He will be going to water therapy twice a week for the next ten weeks. Thank you to Montana Water Dogs for donating the first 10 therapy sessions! Beau will also give acupuncture a try thanks to Four Paws Vet Clinic!
UPDATE: Beau found a great home with lots of other dogs to play with and a family who can continue his rehab!
Joyce
Joyce is a sweet older kitty who was found roaming around all by herself in Lolo. She was so thin she weighed barely over 3 pounds when she came to us, but was still purring and seemed very happy to have people giving her some attention. She was diagnosed with hyperthyroidism and has been on medication, special food, and goes to the vet for routine bloodwork. She is currently in a foster home, has gained a full pound already, and is doing wonderfully. She is still looking for her forever home, though! Please call if you are interested in meeting this special girl.

UPDATE: Joyce's foster mom is going to keep her forever! Thank you Debbie!
Wobs
Wobs is a sweet 6 month old kitten who is deaf and has cerebellar hypoplasia. She is an outgoing cat with an amazing personality and a great sense of humor! She keeps the staff entertained all day long. Please come to the shelter and visit her sometime if you can; she is a lot of fun!

UPDATE: We are very happy that Wobs found a great home, but we miss her already!
Sadie
Sadie is a two year-old heeler mix in need of TPLO surgery (knee). In fact, that's why she was brought to us. Her owners could not afford the surgery (it is typically over $1500) and also were unable to commit to the recovery time she'll need after the procedure. Dr. Patti Prato has made a significant donation towards the procedure but we could still use donations to help with the rest. Would you like to help Sadie? Special thanks to Dr. Patti Prato and Four Paws Vet Clinic!

We have reached our goal to cover Sadie's surgery! Thank you to everyone for your generous contributions to help this very special dog!
Sadie had her TPLO surgery and is now recovering in a foster home. She is doing great thanks to everyone who has made donations to help her! If you are interested in adopting Sadie please call 549-HSWM.
UPDATE: Sadie has been adopted into a fabulous home! Thank you, Blake, for taking such good care of her while she waited to find her perfect match!






