The Stitch Fund - How it all began ...
No one knows just how long the Yellow Labrador lay there slowly succumbing to his injuries before a good Samaritan came along and called Animal Control for help. The dog, who came to be called "Stitch", had been laying helpless for days before being spotted. He was immediately rushed to the Bishop Veterinary Hospital. That was back in 2002.
The attending veterinarian, Dr. Kristen Mason, picks up the story: "The big Yellow Lab arrived at the hospital badly injured, emaciated, dehydrated and in obvious shock. It looked like he had been attacked by another dog or several dogs. Bite wounds had punctured his shoulders and back causing severe infection to set in with blood accumulating in large pockets beneath the skin. I had to make a sizable incision to lift the skin and disinfect the underlying area. Over 100 stitches were required (hence the name) to close the surgical site. Stitch had to be hospitalized for ten days while he recovered from his ordeal."
Stitch was then taken to the Inyo County Animal Shelter, but his owner never came forward to claim him. ICARE asked the community to donate to the newly dubbed "Stitch Fund" to help pay for his surgery. The outpouring of support was incredible and soon Stitch\'s medical costs had been covered. Stitch was placed up for adoption and found a loving home in short order.
Before ICARE established the Stitch Fund in 2002, ill or injured Shelter animals were typically euthanized because Inyo County\'s budget did not and still does not provide for "special needs" animals. Needless to say, the ICARE vowed to continue to seek financial support for the Stitch Fund so all of the Shelter animals in need will receive lifesaving veterinary care, so they can be placed up for adoption to loving homes.
This is what the Stitch Fund has spent on 317 special needs Shelter animals since it started. We cannot do it without you and are grateful for the many, many dogs and cats you have helped find their adoptive homes.
If you'd like to help a special needs Shelter cat or dog, your donation to the ICARE Stitch Fund will do just that.