05/23/2026
UPDATE:
We are now closing comments on this post, as it has reached far more people than we anticipated and we have gathered the key information we hoped to obtain. We’ve received an overwhelming number of calls, emails, messages, and offers of support from across the country — thank you for your compassion. We’d like to address the top 3 questions we’ve received:
1️⃣ How can I support your work?
If you’d like to support animals like Kookie, our nonprofit arm, Friends of Companion, is the best place to do so. Friends of Companion currently focuses on funding essential veterinary care for animals who arrive at our facility in need. For example, if Kookie had required emergency treatment after being struck by a vehicle or arrived with a serious medical condition, these funds help ensure animals receive the care they need. This support allows us to provide treatment and prevent euthanasia in cases where medical needs might otherwise exceed available resources during an animal’s legal hold period. Donations can be made on our website at www.companionanimalcontrol.com/foc
2️⃣ Did this post put an individual or family in danger?
Animal welfare issues often exist at the intersection of difficult circumstances and our 15+ years in this work have provided us with abundant of experience to address these situations. So we understand why this question has been raised, especially by domestic violence survivors and advocates. Safety concerns in situations involving possible abuse, coercion, housing instability, or crisis are very real, and we do not take them lightly.
Before posting, we carefully reviewed what information could be shared and what should remain private. There were additional details connected to this case that we intentionally did not release publicly. The information shared in the post was limited, non-identifying, and focused on compassion toward her former family.
We also understand that people may have different comfort levels regarding what should or should not be shared in situations like this, and we respect that feedback — when shared respectfully. Disrespectful comments, phone calls, and emails related to differing opinions on this matter will not be addressed.
To clarify, our intent was not to expose or speculate about a person’s situation, but to gather needed information while encouraging compassion rather than judgment. Given the case information available to us, we do not have concerns that the post compromised anyone’s safety. We will continue to handle any additional information privately and thoughtfully.
3️⃣ How can I adopt or foster Kookie?
Kookie will complete her legal 5-day stray hold before being transferred to one of our trusted rescue partners for adoption placement. We are still getting to know Kookie to better understand her temperament, needs, and ideal environment, which helps us determine the placement where she is most likely to thrive.
We’re grateful to share that Ruff Start Rescue has offered to welcome Kookie into their organization to help find her forever home. Potential adopters are encouraged to submit an application directly with Ruff Start Rescue. As with all placements, potential adopters will be carefully screened, and relevant case information will be shared with the placement partner to support a safe and appropriate placement.
Again, thank you to everyone who reached out with kindness, empathy, and support.
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Tonight, this dog was abandoned just outside of Hudson, Wisconsin.
In this line of work, we usually never know the full story. Most of the time we don’t know the animal’s name, their history, or what circumstances led to that moment.
But tonight was different. This dog had a long letter attached to her collar. Her name is Kookie.
The most heartbreaking part? The note was written on the back of an informational sheet explaining how to file for an Order for Protection to keep yourself safe. We don’t know what this person is going through. We don’t know their story. But we sincerely hope they are safe.
The note described a dog deeply loved. A dog who “deserved more than we were able to provide.” A dog they would miss “so much.” A family dog. A protector. A snuggler. A dog who loves being outside with room to run.
Sometimes people are quick to judge abandonment cases as black and white. And sometimes they are. But sometimes… there is a deeper story hidden between the lines. Fear. Crisis. Domestic violence. Housing instability. Safety. Survival.
To the person who wrote the letter—if by some chance you see this—we want you to know, Kookie is safe.
She mattered enough to you that in one of the hardest moments imaginable, you wrote down everything you could to help her future. That matters.
We wish the circumstances had been different. We wish asking for help felt easier before it got to this point.
But tonight, our focus is simple— Kookie is safe at our Companion Animal Center in Oakdale. She has a warm bed, a full belly of food and is already fast asleep in her suite. She will be well cared for and we will make sure her future is surrounded by people who want good things for her—just like we know you did.
If you, her former family, have questions—you can call us. There will be no judgement and no criminal charges for abandonment. Just compassion and understanding.
Please SHARE THIS POST—maybe it will reach Kookie’s former family and maybe they’ll sleep a little better tonight knowing she’s safe. 🤍
