From Australia to Oregon: A pandemic Happy Tail

By Savannah Verdon, RedRover Development and Engagement Coordinator

Clothes, books, passport…and Jenny. When Candice came to the United States from Australia, she made absolutely certain that her Cattle Dog, Jenny, came with her. She was heading to Portland, Oregon, and even in such a vibrant city, her life would be dull and gray without her sweet sidekick. 

When the COVID-19 pandemic first arrived in the U. S., Candice felt it was time to return to Australia. But Australia had already instituted lockdowns to help stop the spread of the virus, drastically limiting the number of people who could re-enter the country. Further, Candice would be responsible for the costs of adhering to Australia’s strict quarantine protocols. She simply couldn’t afford to go home.

Jenny’s boundless energy helped Candice cope with so much uncertainty. On most days they went to the park to run, jump, and play fetch, then snuggled in bed, exhausted. Candice wasn’t legally authorized to work in the U.S., and so with her money dwindling and little else to do besides wait until she could return home, she and Jenny spent most of their time together. 

Like many Cattle Dogs, Jenny was remarkably intelligent – and a little bit sneaky. When some grapes fell off the counter, Jenny saw them as a tasty treat, not a toxic threat. Once she realized Jenny had helped herself to a dangerous snack, Candice rushed her to the emergency veterinary hospital, wanting nothing in the world but to save her best friend:  

“She’s my whole world and I will do everything to keep her alive for her longest natural life possible. Seriously. She’s my world.”

Without treatment, Jenny would lapse into a coma in just a few days as her kidneys failed and she suffered from vomiting and diarrhea. Candice was determined to spare Jenny from that awful fate. While Jenny was hospitalized and receiving IV fluids and medication to flush out the toxins, Candice turned to friends and family for help.

After a few friends chipped in, Candice was just short of the amount she needed. The veterinarian at the hospital recommended that Candice apply for a RedRover Relief Urgent Care grant to help fill the small remaining gap. She submitted her application and waited for the call, thinking only of bringing her best friend home.

Her application was quickly approved, and after the wrenching uncertainty, Candice could relax knowing that Jenny would get the full treatment she needed. Now fully recovered, Jenny hasn’t lost one bit of her boundless energy. Their first order of business? Playing fetch in the park!

Candice shared her gratitude: “Thank you so so so much. I appreciate your help beyond belief.” We, too, are grateful for the second chances and Happy Tails that your support makes possible. Thank you for bringing families like Candice and Jenny from crisis to care!

Read more inspiring Happy Tails and share your own at GreatNonprofits.org.