Remy’s rescue was the result of compassion, persistence and dedicated teamwork. From the FDNY paramedics who first found her, to the shelter partners who followed protocol, and finally to the staff at North Shore Animal League America who made sure she didn’t fall through the cracks, this was a life saved because people worked together and refused to give up.
She had been discovered wandering a beach, underweight and in poor condition. Gentle and trusting despite the signs of neglect, she was brought to Animal League America. But because she had been found within New York City limits, protocol required that she be surrendered to the city’s Animal Care Center (ACC) in Queens first.
That could’ve been the end of her time with us. But Mike Spiotta, Animal League America Shelter Director, refused to let her fall through the cracks. “I followed up with ACC to make sure she made it there safely and kept checking in to see when she became available,” said Spiotta. “As soon as she was cleared, we picked her up and brought her back to Animal League America. I knew we had to help her.”
Now in our care, Remy is beginning her next chapter, one filled with compassion, comfort and a full evaluation of her medical needs. At intake, it was noted she had staining on her legs, a telltale sign she likely had been confined for long periods, possibly crated or chained before escaping or being abandoned. While she doesn’t have any broken bones, her body tells the story of long-term neglect.
Animal League America Senior Veterinarian Dr. Gerard Laheney explained, “She’s underweight and has some healing sores. It could be that she didn’t have access to food, but we also want to rule out underlying issues like digestive disease or parasites. We’re doing full bloodwork, checking for intestinal disorders, metabolic conditions, and infectious diseases like heartworm and tick-borne illnesses.”
Remy is being given high-calorie, quality food to help her gain healthy weight, and will be spayed once she’s stabilized. Despite everything she’s been through, she remains sweet, curious, and eager for affection; showing she’s ready to start over with people who care. Thanks to teamwork, vigilance and follow-through, Remy is no longer alone, and her healing has finally begun.