08/18/2026
Igloo’s story with PAWS began 11 years ago, when he was adopted along with his brother Duncan. They have been beloved family members ever since. “Igloo has always loved being around people and is happiest when he’s with us,” Martina shares. “He truly feels like so much more than a pet, he is our family.”
Recently, Martina noticed a concerning lump on Igloo’s leg. She brought him to their veterinarian, who suspected the mass was a sarcoma – an invasive, cancerous tumor that required amputation. Martina was quoted $5,000 for surgery – a cost her family simply could not manage, especially after recently welcoming a new baby. With seemingly no other options, they made the heartbreaking decision to schedule an appointment for humane euthanasia at PAWS and prepared to say goodbye.
When Martina brought Igloo to PAWS, our veterinary team reviewed his case, and offered to perform Igloo’s amputation for a small fraction of the price they had been quoted elsewhere, making it affordable for Martina and her family. They never imagined their sorrow that day would turn to hope, and enthusiastically scheduled the procedure. Igloo’s surgery was successful, and he is now healing in the comfort of home, surrounded by his loved ones, and adjusting to life on three legs.
“The fact that he was adopted from PAWS and that PAWS saved his life so many years later makes it such a full-circle moment and really highlights how special the work you do is,” Martina shared. Stories like Igloo’s show just how pivotal access to affordable veterinary care can be for families facing unexpected medical crises. More than a decade after PAWS brought Igloo and his family together, we were able to help them begin a beautiful new chapter, rather than face a devastating loss. With support from PetSmart Charities, PAWS places lifesaving care within reach, and helps ensure that financial strain doesn’t have to mean losing a cherished pet.
