Name: Joy

Breed: Lab Mix

Rescued From: Smith County, Texas

Date: 12/30/2014

Organization: 11th Hour Rescue

Adoption Location: New Jersey

Joy was saved from Smith County Texas animal control, a high intake shelter in rural Texas. Pet overpopulation and neglect is a huge problem in this part of the state. A great group of volunteers working with the encouragement and support of the local animal control officers have made a huge difference. Out of state rescue groups working with places like this have to make quick decisions when dogs are in danger of being euthanized without knowing the health history of the dog they are trying to save. In Joy's case, she had never had the proper vaccines as a puppy and shortly after getting her out of the animal control facility, she broke with Parvovirus, which is often fatal. Additionally, like so many dogs in Texas, she also had heartworm disease. To help offset her extensive veterinary bills, many donors including the Gemma Rose Project contributed to help save her life. After surviving pargo and recovering from heartworm, Joy made her way to New Jersey where she was adopted out to a great family.