.svg){kind=logo}
At the heart of North Shore Animal League America’s no-kill mission are stories like Nima’s. Only seven months old and abandoned near a stormy riverbank, this brave Shiba Inu’s life hung in the balance. Through the collaborative efforts of our North Country Initiative (NCI) team in Warren County, NY, and our staff and volunteers on Long Island, Nima not only survived against all odds but emerged as a symbol of hope for countless animals in need.
NCI Director Deborah Oligny recalled the day Joel Rinsigna, a local good Samaritan, arrived at their facility with a drenched and trembling Nima in his arms. Joel had spotted the young Shiba struggling in the swift current of the river, clearly exhausted and unable to fight the strong waters. Risking his own safety, Joel leapt into action, pulling the helpless dog to shore just in time. Nima was in critical condition from hypothermia and sheer exhaustion, and his chances of survival seemed slim. Since Joel was unable to provide the extensive medical care Nima required, the pup’s future was uncertain. But, true to our no-kill commitment, we weren’t going to give up on him. We immediately authorized emergency care at a nearby veterinary hospital to save his life.
After stabilizing him, Nima was transported to our Pet Health Centers. His condition remained precarious as he struggled with respiratory issues and muscle weakness from his ordeal. It wasn’t clear whether the damage to his health was permanent or if he could fully recover with time and care. Nima needed a safe and nurturing environment to heal, and we found just the right one in the home of Lauren, one of our dedicated foster parents.
Lauren made it her mission to ensure Nima’s recovery. Over time, and with much monitoring and patience, Nima regained his strength and energy. With assistance from our canine behavior team, Lauren was finally able to introduce Nima to her resident dog, Milo. The two pups began sharing meals, chasing toys, and eventually curling up together during naps. It was a bond Lauren could not bear to break, so she decided to officially adopt Nima, telling us: “Milo has found his best friend in Nima, and I can’t imagine life without them together.”
Nima is now the joyful companion of Lauren and Milo, thanks to our no-kill commitment. Each rescue, each emergency treatment, each adoption we make possible, strengthens our resolve to fight for those who cannot speak for themselves. With our vast network of supporters and our dedicated Animal League America team, we will continue to change lives, one animal at a time.