The Dumb Friends League is a leading community-based animal welfare organization in the U.S. and a national model in Socially Conscious Sheltering.
Each day, vulnerable pets and horses come to our doors in need of warm shelter, loving care, and relief from their pain and suffering. With your generous support, we cared for more than 47,000 animals at our five Colorado centers in the last fiscal year alone, including 20,598 homeless pets at our three shelters, 26,630 pets through our subsidized community veterinary services, and 154 horses at our Harmony Equine Center™. On behalf of all of us at the League, thank you for making a difference for so many pets and people in our shared community.
Impact
When Cosmos, a 3-year-old black cat, arrived at the Dumb Friends League San Luis Valley Animal Center in December 2023, he was a malnourished stray found alongside two other cats in Alamosa. The three had been fending for themselves in the cold after their owner had moved away.
“I named him Cosmos because he was like a little universe to me,”
- Lisa, Cosmos AdopterCosmos (known as Curtis at the League) came to us in a very fragile state, prompting a swift transfer to our Leslie A. Malone Center in Denver for comprehensive veterinary care. In addition to being severely underweight, he had a fractured lower jaw and a large, infected wound on his left cheek. He needed extensive dental work, wound care, nutritional support and fluids, and medications to treat his pain and an upper respiratory infection. Our Shelter Veterinary Services team quickly began the process of giving him the love and specialized care he desperately needed.
Despite his condition, Cosmos showed remarkable strength, patience, and a sweet, affectionate nature throughout his recovery, making him a fast favorite among League staff and volunteers. After days in the ICU and weeks in our shelter to heal, he was ready for the next – and best – phase of his life.
In January 2024, Cosmos met Lisa – and it was love at first sight. No longer alone, starving, and in pain, he now had a future that included a comfy bed, plenty of nourishing food, a plethora of toys, and a lifetime of love and companionship. He quickly settled into life with Lisa, who chose his new name to honor his significance in her life. “I named him Cosmos because he was like a little universe to me,” she gushed.
Since adoption day, Cosmos has blossomed in his new home, basking in sunny spots, snacking on treats, and playing with his favorite toys. Lisa describes her time with Cosmos as transformative. “I can’t imagine not having him in my life,” she said. “He brings so much happiness and joy.” In addition to his charming, tiny meows, his habit of dozing upside down with his little “vampire” teeth on full display keeps Lisa and the rest of his devoted fan club swooning.
Your compassion and generosity help transform the lives of deserving animals like Cosmos and their families. Support our vital work by donating to the Dumb Friends League today.