Stray Dog Clinging to Life Sparks Call for Help in Madera County
A tiny stray dog, found barely clinging to life in California’s North Valley, is now receiving emergency medical treatment — a case that animal rescuers say underscores the growing crisis of stray animals in Madera County.
The dog, now named Benny, was discovered on May 10th in an orchard, severely injured and in desperate need of help. Megan Bowe, founder of Bowe’s Animal Rescue, rushed to take him in, fearing it might already be too late.
X-rays revealed the heartbreaking truth: Benny had been shot with birdshot ammo.
“His front legs were shattered due to the bullets, he had a fracture in his chest, and his back right foot had a broken toe with bullet fragments in it,” Bowe explained.
Two other small dogs were found with Benny. All are now in the care of the nonprofit, which currently looks after eight dogs and has rescued more than 400 since its founding in 2017. The organization runs entirely on donations and volunteers.
“We do what we can. We save what we can. And even though it’s not enough for all the animals, it’s enough for that dog,” Bowe said.
Madera County’s growing stray population has placed heavy pressure on both local rescues and the county shelter. The Madera County Animal Shelter can take in around 150 animals at a time. Ludwig Casillas, who works at the shelter, says they rely on partnerships with nonprofits and rescue groups to manage the overwhelming need.
“It is overwhelming. We try to help everyone in need, and sometimes we do ask for fosters and rescue groups to help us, and they do an amazing job alleviating that stress,” Casillas said.
Still, Bowe warns that more needs to be done at the community level.
“There are so many dogs, and we can’t help them all. We are drowning in an ocean of dogs,” she said.
For now, Benny’s fight for survival continues — a symbol of both the cruelty animals face and the compassion of those working tirelessly to save them.