Emma and Ella are 3-month old shepherd mix puppy sisters we rescued February 16, 2011. They are affectionate girls who love to be held, give kisses, and cuddle into your neck. Much to our dismay, these sweethearts immediately began to show symptoms of Parvovirus. Unfortunately this diagnosis was confirmed. Parvovirus is a nasty affliction and it requires these pups initially receive 24-hour care.

Dogs that do survive the virus onslaught go on to live happy, normal lives and make a full recovery. The veterinary care to get dogs to that happy future is expensive. Please consider donating here to help ensure we have the financial resources available to help dogs like Ella and Emma in the future.

We are incredibly saddened to share that on February 22, 2011, after four nights in the hospital, Ella passed away. Ella was a sweet and special puppy with so much fun in her future. The vet says the virus must have attacked her heart and at that point death is sudden and unpreventable. Just a few days ago Ella was grabbing at our visiting volunteer's scarf with her teeth and licking her nose... so her passing is just devastating.

Before Emma and Ella's symptoms worsened, we recorded video of them playing just a couple of days before they were hospitalized. This a testament to how suddenly the Parvovirus symptoms can arise.

You can learn more about the Canine Parvovirus (CPV) through Cornell University's veterinary school. It is important to have your dog vaccinated against this disease, so please consult your veterinarian.

Emma has made a full recovery, as pups who survive parvo do. She was lovingly cared for in a foster home for a week before applications starting coming in for this deserving little gal. She was adopted by a great family with two young kids (pictured below). Emma is a happy, inquisitive, playful, and affectionate little pup who has a wonderful life ahead of her!

****** Lori Alvarez ******
*** Paul Blomdahl/Cindy Georges***
**Sean Knapp**
*Jane Almon*
*Beverly*
Nell & Ben Clement
Gina Scigliano
John Lampson
Mary Jo Nash
Kyndra Homuth
Polly Feyereisn
Katrina McFarland
Joan Bonagan
Jennifer Cohen
Katie Jones
Megan