Zwart, a highly trained police dog and beloved family member, was tragically struck by a car one day when he wandered from home, and sustained serious injuries. Overwhelmed by the cost and complexity of the care he needed, his family made the painful decision to surrender him to the local SPCA, believing it was the only way to save his life.

Our team at Maddie’s® Shelter Medicine Program (MSMP) wanted to give Zwart, a loyal companion and a working partner, every chance at healing. We also wanted to give him the chance to stay with his people – instead of being adopted by another family.

So, over the course of four months, Zwart received intensive veterinary care through the MSMP program, while remaining in the comfort of his own home. With every follow-up visit, every small sign of healing, his story became one of resilience and hope.

Today, Zwart is thriving. He’s back with his family, walking on all fours, living the full, joyful life he was meant to – all possible because of donors like you.

Zwart’s journey is a powerful reminder that shelter medicine isn’t always about rehoming; it’s about doing what’s best for each animal, each family and each community.

Thank you for helping us give Zwart the care he needed – and the home he never had to lose.