Trek (aka Starsky)
Back in the spring of 2012, we adopted our dog, Trek, from MARS. I think your name for him was Starsky. Last July, we had to make the horrible and most difficult decision that it was time to relieve him of the pain he had been experiencing, the alarming speed at which he was deteriorating, and the gloomy prognosis from his vet. We miss our boy terribly and grieve daily for our loss but we strive to remember the wonderful days we were able to have him with us - over 12 years worth - and the joy he daily brought to our lives. Thank you so much for the work you do to save these animals and thank you so much for providing us the opportunity and honor of being Trek's adoptive family. He was a one-of-a-kind, lovely, loving boy. Our lives were enriched by his presence. Someday very soon, we will be looking to adopt another puppy or dog. We will definitely be returning to MARS for assistance. Again, thank you, and Happy Holidays!

Dobby (aka Jedi)
I wanted to tell you about the freedom I've had & the amazing life Dobby had. I came to MARS shortly after euthanizing my beloved Boomer. There I met Jedi. Renamed as Dobby because he looked similar to Dobby from Harry Potter and he was "a free dog". He also had a full on "big dog" attitude. Within a few days, Dobby started alerting to my blood glucose changes. With additional training he lived his life as a diabetic alert service dog. Affording me and my kids peace of mind. We traveled by train, planes, automobiles, kayaks and even cruise ships. He was the best traveler! Even though he couldn't swim, he loved being in the water! (He had a life jacket) He developed a collapsing trachea recently. Also some severe pain at the end. Sunday 11-17-24 Dobby crossed the rainbow bridge. Attached are a few pictures of our lives together. Even meeting a few celebrities. Thank you for all you do and for providing me with the best doggo ever!

Boston
It is with a heavy heart that I write this message to inform you that Cassidy (renamed Boston) has crossed the Rainbow Bridge on Friday, October 25th, in the loving arms of my husband and me. We adopted Boston on February 26th, 2011. Boston lived his long life being a guard dog, a running/walking buddy, a fishing companion, and a calm, steady presence in our home. Over the years he welcomed two human babies into the house, and easily became their best friend, too. Our house now feels a bit empty without him, but we know he’s at peace now. We are so very thankful for the MARS staff and volunteers for everything you did for Boston before he came to us. Because of you, we were blessed with a perfect dog for almost 14 years.

Belle (Cassie)
I adopted “Cassie” whose name was Belle for the rest of her life from Midwest Animal Rescue in August 31st, 2014 after she gave birth to a litter of four puppies at age 2. She was a very loved girl by her sister sheltie, Winnie, and our whole family. She had a spunky personality and even went on an adventure through the zoo ending up in the local news. She crossed the rainbow bridge to join her best friend, Louie, on September 26th, 2024 after a short battle with bladder cancer. She is forever in our hearts and we will always be grateful to Midwest Animal Rescue for connecting us with her.

Hazel
I adopted the most beautiful girl from you 6 years ago. Her name was Hazel and I am deeply saddened to say she passed away on Oct 21st. She gave a courageous fight in her battle with osteosarcoma which resulted in a leg amputation and 5 rounds of chemotherapy. In May she was diagnosed with hemangiosarcoma and she fought hard for almost 6 months before she finally succumbed. I am heart broken beyond repair but I am also so grateful to have had her in my life. Thank you for doing what you do and saving the best people on the planet. My Hazel was as sweet and loving as she was beautiful, she made it a better place because of your organization. Warmest Regards, Jay