Dear Friends,
I am writing to you not just as the Founder and Executive Director of Pause 4 Paws, but as someone walking through a deeply personal season of life.
One of my family members is currently going through a serious health battle. It has been consuming, draining, and quite honestly—terrifying. During this heavy time, the one constant bringing peace, light, and hope into my world has been my pets.
I have even seen a few small smiles from my loved one, who has found joy playing with his cats—moments that remind me of the powerful, healing bond between animals and humans. This bond fuels me now more than ever to help more dogs and cats in need. They don't just need us—we need them, too.
Even in the midst of this storm, two recent updates from our Pause 4 Paws family warmed my heart, and I hope they do the same for you:
🐾 Sweet Chloe, who came to us from Lake Traverse Animal Rezcue, was born without a rectum. Thanks to the incredible Dr. Kalamaras at Blue Pearl Pet Hospital, she underwent a life-saving surgery last fall when she was just over 2 lbs. When complications returned, Chloe spent much of February hospitalized. She had grown to over 6 lbs and it was determined that she needed another complex surgery. I'm thrilled to share she’s thriving after her second surgery. Huge gratitude to Michele and Stan for lovingly supporting Chloe through countless vet visits and months of recovery.
🐾 Athena, now lovingly named Phoebe, was abandoned on the side of the road in Brooklyn Park. With the help of Lynn Gates from Warmth4Ferals and her amazing network of volunteers, she was rescued and temporarily fostered. Then Nikole and John responded to our plea for a home. Today, Phoebe teaching their other cat tricks, and loving life. Recently, I received this text from them, “Phoebe tried to call you one night this week to let you know we aren’t feeding her enough (I assure you, we are 😊).
In a time that has felt dark and uncertain, these stories—and your continued support—remind me why we do this work. The love and companionship our animals give us is unmatched. My family and I are living proof of that right now.
Thank you for believing in Pause 4 Paws. Thank you for helping us write more happy endings.
With gratitude and love,
Jill E. Goldstein
Founder & Executive Director
Pause 4 Paws
If you’d like to help Pause 4 Paws make a difference in a cat or dogs’ life, please donate here. All donations go directly to helping animals in need.