Imagine waking up to a new day, ready to help animals in need, only to find one in desperate distress right on your doorstep.
That’s exactly what happened to the dedicated team at Southern Pines Animal Shelter in Hattiesburg on the morning of June 6, 2025.
What they discovered was not just a dog, but a heartbreaking testament to a desperate act.
Chained to their very own sign was a sweet dog, now named Juice.
But this wasn’t just a case of abandonment; Juice was in severe medical distress, suffering from a painful rectal prolapse. It was an emergency situation, screaming for immediate attention.
A note left by his previous family explained their agonizing decision: they simply couldn’t afford the urgent care Juice needed.
This story is a stark reminder of the difficult choices pet owners can face, but also a crucial lesson in how to handle them.
The team at Southern Pines immediately rushed Juice inside for critical care.
His surgery alone is estimated to cost around $500, a significant burden for any non-profit shelter.
While we can empathize with the family’s financial struggle, the shelter is urging everyone: please, never abandon your pet, especially if they’re sick.
Abandonment is not only dangerous for the animal – leaving them vulnerable to traffic, other animals, and worsening conditions – but it also robs them of a chance at proper care and a safe transition.
Southern Pines Animal Shelter offers a structured surrender process precisely for these situations. They also provide resources and guidance for owners struggling to care for their pets or needing to rehome them responsibly.
They understand life throws curveballs, but there are always better options than leaving an animal chained and suffering.
Juice is now safe, getting the care he so desperately needed. But his journey to recovery depends on community support.
If you’re able to, please consider donating to Southern Pines Animal Shelter to help cover Juice’s medical bills and support the countless other animals they rescue.
Every dollar helps them continue their vital work, ensuring no animal is left suffering alone.
Let Juice’s story be a powerful reminder: compassion means finding the right, safe way to help, even when facing the toughest decisions.