On the morning of September 15, a young female German Shepherd was found near Starr Ridge Road in Southeast, New York, in a condition no animal should ever experience.

Her muzzle had been tightly wrapped shut with electrical tape.

Thankfully, Good Samaritans found her, removed the tape and immediately brought her to Brewster Veterinary Hospital.

When she arrived, our veterinary team could see just how badly she needed help. Her muzzle was significantly swollen and injured. She had trauma to her mouth and teeth, as well as wounds and abrasions around her neck.

But there was something else our team noticed almost immediately.

Despite everything she had been through, she still trusted people.

She accepted the hands reaching out to comfort her. She leaned into the people caring for her. And before long, this sweet girl was resting in the lap of one of her caregivers, seemingly knowing that she was finally somewhere safe.

Her first examination required sedation so her injuries could be thoroughly evaluated and treated. Her wounds were cleaned and cared for, and the immediate priority became controlling her discomfort and allowing the significant swelling around her muzzle to subside.

But her medical journey isn't over.

Once the swelling has decreased enough for her veterinary team to safely proceed, she is expected to need additional treatment, including dental extractions and reconstructive surgery to repair the damage to her mouth and muzzle.

The Putnam County SPCA Law Enforcement Division continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding how she was found. Because that investigation remains active, we will respect that process and will only share information about the case when appropriate.

Right now, our focus is on her future.

Brewster Veterinary Hospital is committed to helping Starr receive the medical care she needs to heal. This campaign has been created to help offset the costs associated with her treatment, surgery and recovery.

Starr's story has already touched many hearts, and we are incredibly grateful for the support surrounding her. Hill's Pet Nutrition has generously stepped forward to provide Starr's food during her recovery, helping ensure she has the nutrition she needs while she heals.

Now, we're asking our community to help us with the next part of Starr's journey.

Every donation—large or small—will help support the veterinary treatment, dental care, surgery and continued medical care Starr will need in the weeks ahead.

And if you're unable to donate, sharing Starr's story can make an enormous difference.

Her story began under heartbreaking circumstances, but those circumstances don't have to define her future.

Together, we can help Starr heal. Together, we can Let Starr Shine. ⭐

Thank you to the Good Samaritans who stopped to help her, the Putnam County SPCA, the veterinary professionals caring for her, and every person who has donated, shared her story or simply sent their support.

When an animal needs help, our community shows up.

#CommunityCares #WeAreGuardian #GuardianStrong

LET STARR SHINE

Help us give Starr the medical care and second chance she deserves.