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Smile File Stories
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Polly’s Purpose
A Shelter Dog Turned Hero Some heroes wear capes. Polly wears fur. Once a stray on the streets of Madera, California, Polly (formerly Molly) had already beaten the odds by finding her way to Joybound People & Pets in 2014. …
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Ladybug’s Lessons
How One Joyful Pit Bull Helps Dog Parents Connect with Their Pets What happens when a dog with a big heart and a few challenges enters your life? You gain love, patience, and a fresh perspective on dog training. Sometimes …
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Homework, Litterboxes, and Love
The Joy (and Challenges) of Raising Kittens What started as a plan to adopt a cat turned into a life-changing adventure in fostering. Meet Aria (16) and Kevin Yoder (13), two teens who, along with their family, have fostered nearly …
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Kristi and Chris’s Joybound Love Story
From First Date to Forever “There are so many different opportunities to try — potty walks, trail walks, puppy socials… The best motivation is the dogs!” Who knew a “Yappy Hour” could lead to happily ever after? That’s exactly what …
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Cinder’s Second Chance
A Rescue Dog Finds Love After Surviving the Los Angeles Fires “Sometimes the perfect dog comes into your life when you least expect it, bringing healing and joy when you need it most.” Sometimes, the perfect dog comes into your …
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The Unexpected Joys of Fostering
A Journey of Trust and Playfulness Not all foster stories end in adoption, but when Bowie strutted into his foster mom’s life, it was game over. Goofy, confident, and full of sass, Bowie knew he was home — even if …
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Meet Joybound’s 2024 Volunteer of the Year
Doris has Been Caring for Animals (and Humans) for More Than 15 Years If there’s one thing Doris Hasegawa knows, it’s that dogs and joy go hand in hand—and she’s been spreading that joy at Joybound for over 15 years! …
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A New Playground for Pups
Solo’s Play Yard is Now Open! Imagine a place where adoptable dogs can run, jump, and be their playful selves — well, that place is Solo’s Play Yard. Thanks to a generous anonymous donor, on December 10, 2024, Joybound unveiled …
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The Evolution of Shelter to Service
Expanding Veterans’ Support with Streamlined Training and Lasting Bonds Incredible things happen when you take a bold step toward inclusivity. That’s exactly what Joybound’s Shelter to Service program did last year when it expanded its reach to include those facing …
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Helping Shelter Animals During the Palisades Fire
Joybound’s Life-Saving Rescue Runs On January 13, 2025, Joybound jumped into action to help animals in desperate need. With the Palisades fire sweeping through Los Angeles County, shelters were overwhelmed and struggling to keep up with the influx of displaced …
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Wishing You Love, PAWS, & Joy This Holiday Season
This holiday season, our hearts are overflowing with gratitude for the incredible support of our wonderful Joybound community. Thanks to your generosity, we’ve been able to provide love, care, and second chances to so many deserving dogs, cats, and pet …
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2024 End of Year Video
Every December, we like to recap the past year in the form of a fun music video. In 2024, your support changed lives, connected hearts, and spread joy. This included: Please enjoy some of the happy faces you saved, the …
