FROM OUR DIRECTOR
OUR 2025 IMPACT
1,171 pets rescued
909 pets adopted
17,377 pounds of pet food distributed through our pet pantry
1,495 spay and neuter surgeries
1,499 low-cost vaccines administered to pet owners in need.
518 low-cost flea/tick prevention distributed
OUR BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Ellen Dowdy
Angie Pivac
Camille Sistrunk
Michael Cho
Nick Sanders
Maggie Floyd
Sarah Wilson
Denise Dunaway
Mike Jalili
Alex Thompson
MO 65804
Dear Friends, Fall always feels like a season of second chances, reminding us that change can be beautiful. At Rescue One, we see that transformation every day—a dog who finally learns to trust, a cat who discovers the comfort of a warm lap, a family who realizes their home wasn’t complete until an animal walked through the door.
This year has been one of growth, grit, and gratitude. We also launched something new—the Rescue One Bad Dogs Club It features pets who once seemed “impossible” but are proving that with patience and love, even the toughest cases can change. Richard’s story, and his happily-ever-after adoption, is featured on page 11.
Still, the challenges we face are staggering. Our waiting lists are longer than ever, and every day more animals are being dumped, abandoned, or surrendered We are doing our very best to help as many as possible and will continue to try to find ways to adjust to the needs of our community.
We wish for you a season filled with all your favorite autumn things and the knowledge that your support is changing lives every single day.
With gratitude,
Stephanie Shelton-Mcguire Executive Director
Rescue One is a state-licensed, 501(c)(3), foster-based rescue located in Springfield, MO. All of the animals in our care live in foster homes until a forever home can be found. We rescue without regard to breed, age, or ease of placement. Our mission is not only to rescue animals in need, but to also educate the public on responsible pet ownership.
UPCOMING EVENTS
When: October 4th
Where: Petsmart on S. Campbell
Springfield MO.
Time: 5pm-7pm
To get pre-approved to adopt, visit https://rescueonespringfield com/ouradoption-process/adoptionapplication/ and fill out the online application. See you there!
When: September 27th
Where: Chesterfield Park
2511 W. Republic Road
Time: 9am-1:30pm
To get pre-approved to adopt, visit https://rescueonespringfield.com/ouradoption-process/adoptionapplication/ and fill out the online application. See you there!
When: October 18th
Where: 1409 E. Cherry
Springfield, MO
Time: 10am
Race options include 1 mile, 5k or virtual. All proceeds benefit Rescue One! Sign up now at https://runsignup.com/Race/MO/Spri ngfield/AnnualFastandFurriest5k
When: October 18th
Where: Petsmart on S. Campbell
Springfield MO.
Time: 1pm-4pm
To get pre-approved to adopt, visit https://rescueonespringfield.com/ouradoption-process/adoption-application/ and fill out the online application. See you there!
11TH ANNUAL FAST & FURRIEST
�� Lace Up, Leash Up, and Let’s Go! ��
Grab your crew two-legged or four and join us for Rescue One’s 11th Annual Fast & the Furriest on October 18th! This family-friendly event welcomes all fitness levels, whether you’re walking, running, or cheering from the sidelines. Choose from a 1-mile, 5K, or even a virtual option. We’re kicking off in a new spot this year, just a little further west down Cherry Street, but the neighborhood route you love remains the same. And yes you can still toast your finish with a cold drink at Tie & Timber!
This isn’t just a race it’s a celebration of animals and second chances And to top it off, Pot Pie will be at the finish line helping hand out finisher medals. Come have fun and leave knowing you made a difference for animals in need!
This year’s race shirt and finisher medals!
YOUR DONATIONS AT WORK
It started with a single email from a concerned citizen: a dog had been spotted loose, skin and bones, and in desperate need of help. At first, we thought he must be a stray left to fend for himself But when his owners were located, the truth was far worse this wasn’t a stray at all. This was a dog who had a home yet was denied the most basic care.
When our volunteer spoke with the owners, they convinced them to surrender the dog. His condition was heartbreaking—emaciated with a body score of 1 out of 9, crawling with fleas, and suffering from a severe, untreated skin condition Our vet confirmed there was no medical reason other than neglect for his emaciation. We renamed him Chance, because that’s exactly what he was given: a second chance at life. The same volunteer who rescued him fostered him, giving him food, medicine, and love Today, Chance has gained 47 pounds and is now healthy, happy, and ready for the forever home he has always deserved. Chance isn’t just his name. It’s his story.
YOUR DONATIONS AT WORK
first reached out to us, it was as a last resort. His beloved dog e tumor that had overtaken her eye, rupturing repeatedly and ain. His vet quoted more than $3,000 for surgery an impossible a lot of pet owners faced with these tough decisions.
But he refused to give up. He needed her, and she needed our help.
Even though our clinic is always stretched thin and space is limited, we knew we had to step in Thanks to the compassion of Dr. Archuletta, who came in on her day off, Sunshine was seen the very next day. After a difficult surgery, the tumor was gone and her road to recovery began. This is what your support makes possible. Because of donations, our outreach services can step in when there’s no other hope, giving pets like Sunshine and her owner the help they need. This is what bettering the lives of animals is all about.
Meet Linda
Meet Bruce
Hi! I’m Bruce (yes, like Bruce Wayne). At 4 years old and 50 lbs, I’m smart, athletic, house-trained, and love other dogs. No cats or small kids for me, please I need a fenced yard or lots of walks, and I’ll happily cuddle under the covers when I’m done playing I take daily meds, but they don’t slow me down—I’m ready to be your hero!
Hi, I’m Linda! I’m a sassy, spunky girl who is 1 year old. I love chasing paracord, birdwatching, and demanding my Temptations treats. I can get a little wild with my play style, but when I’m done, I’ll curl up in bed with you (just don’t wiggle your toes under the covers!). I may prefer being your one-and-only cat, but I promise to keep you entertained and loved every single day
Meet Ladybug
Hi, I’m Ladybug! I’m 1.5 years old, 50 lbs, and full of joy. I’ve gone from living outside to loving life inside I picked up house training fast and even like my kennel. I’m smart, obedient, and crave human attention. I’d do best with an active family, a 6-ft fenced yard, and maybe a fun dog friend to play with. I can’t wait to find my forever home and start this new adventure!
“I had a wonderful experience adopting my dog, Joey! His foster, Selena, was very great at communicating. She brought him to meet me and answered all the questions I had. Everything went extremely smoothly! Thanks Rescue One for the wonderful work you do to save animals!.”
-Holly F
Right now, many of our animals are stuck in boarding waiting for a safe place to land That’s where you come in! Rescue One provides everything you’ll need: food, crate, toys, vet care, and support. All you have to do is open your home and heart until they’re adopted. When you foster, you’re not just giving an animal a place to stay—you’re giving them a chance at life. Join our lifesaving team today at rescueonespringfield.com!
Tux is an 18-month-old, 45lb sweetheart who was found starving just weeks ago. He’s friendly, full of energy, and while a little bouncy on leash at first, he quickly settles and is going to be a great companion!
Rocket is a 4 year old mix He is energetic and good with dogs with proper introductions He loves to play and does love to be around his people He is housebroken and ready to crash on your couch!
Nacho Libre is a 3 year old sweet, gentle, laid-back guy who just wants attention, affection, and a person (or family!) to follow around the house He gets along great with other cats and dogs, and kids!
Cookie Cat is 4 years old, loves his daily brushing sessions, and will happily follow you around like a loyal little shadow. He is diabetic but takes his insulin like a champ and is also FIV+ He is ready to sit on your lab!
Plankton is a 7-year-old sweetheart who would do best in a home without a lot of guests as he can be leery of strangers. He gets along with other dogs and never says no to a game of fetch!
Livi is a 6 year old Terrier mix who is looking for a foster home with no other pets. She is great with humans and is very playful. Her favorite toy is her ball and she is housebroken She is ready to snuggle with you!
9
ANNOUNCEMENTS
We’re on the search for a veterinarian to join our amazing team at the clinic starting in January! We offer a competitive salary ($130,000 per year), paid time off, a flexible schedule, paid health insurance, no holidays or weekends, and the opportunity to work alongside a supportive, experienced staff. As a qualifying nonprofit organization, we also participate in the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program. Email stephanie.rescueone@gmail.com today if you are interested in joining our life saving team!
COMING SOON!
Did you know that Rescue One has a booth at The Vintage Peddler, located at 1432 E. Trafficway? Every purchase helps support animals in need!
Have vintage treasures you’d like to donate? Drop them off at our clinic at 2000 S. Stewart! Go shop, give back, and help save lives!
In October we will be launching an adult (also kid friendly) coloring book with proceeds to help with expenses for the long timers in our care. Stay tuned for information on how to order!
RESCUE
BAD DOGS CLUB
If we’re being honest, Richard was that dog. The one we secretly thought would never get adopted. He had the attitude, the bite history, the “I dare you to pet me” energy Cute as a button, but with a personality that had to be managed carefully. When we posted about him, we didn’t dress it up we just shared Richard exactly as he was: grumpy face, bad habits, and all. And people LOVED it. The post took off, everyone laughed along, and suddenly Richard wasn’t just a jerk…he was a star. Now he has his own t-shirt and calendar, shipped to 48 states and claimed by more than 2,000 fans. That one post sparked the idea for the Bad Dogs Club, a way to showcase the pets who might seem “impossible.
Trainers told us Richard wasn’t trainable, and honestly, we started to believe it. But then Howliday Inn was willing to give him a chance and a miracle happened. They say there’s always one person you’ll change for, and Richard finally met his A trainer at the center fell in love with him and, shockingly, the feeling was mutual Against all odds, Richard found his person, his place, and his forever home. Today, Richard still proudly serves as President of the Bad Dogs Club, but he now works remotely from his new forever home. You can follow the Bad Dogs Club and all their antics on our Facebook page!
Pot Pie, a six-year-old English Bulldog, proudly serves as vice president of the Bad Dogs Club. Unlike Richard, Pot Pie actually likes most people. His hobbies include launching himself off dangerously high furniture and throwing full-blown toddler tantrums whenever he’s asked to do, well…anything. Tell him “no,” and he’ll immediately try to eat the nearest rug, baseboard, or doorframe like it personally offended him. And just to round things out, Pot Pie comes with a sensitive stomach that demands prescription food and medication So yes, he’s a bad dog with a delicate tummy Jackpot He’s just started his “Good Boy” training at Howliday Inn, and we’re hoping that he’ll be the next Bad Dog to reform and finally find his forever home!
HOW YOU CAN HELP
“Volunteering with Rescue One is truly rewarding. The team is welcoming, the work makes a real difference, and you can see the animals thrive because of the care we give. It’s an honor to be part of saving lives!”
-Anne B
DONATE
Your donation is truly a lifeline for our mission You can donate monetarily, purchase items from our Amazon Wishlist, or drop off supplies at 2000 S. Stewart. Your generosity fuels stories of hope and helps make the world a kinder place for our furry friends!
Donate Online
Donate from our Amazon Wishlist
FOSTER
Unlock a journey of compassion and connection by fostering a dog or cat! Your home provides love, healing, and transformation. Rescue One provides medical care and supplies that your foster pet needs We would love to have you on our life-saving team!
Find out more about fostering here!
ADOPT
Discover your next best friend at Rescue One! Our adoptable pets are waiting to share their unconditional love and bring joy to your life. Each adoption not only changes their world but also enriches yours!
See all of our adoptable pets or fill out an application here!
HOW YOU CAN HELP Volunteer
LEAVE A LEGACY
For animal lovers, there is no more meaningful legacy than a gift that guarantees compassionate care for animals in need. By including Rescue One in your legacy giving, you ensure that our mission to save and improve animal lives continues for generations to come!
Find out how to become an Eternal Guardian here!
Rescue One runs on the dedication and compassion of volunteers! Whether you have a couple of hours a week or just occasional time to give, your help makes a real difference. We’re currently in need of volunteers for:
Transporting
Laundry
General Cleaning
Dog Walking
Cat Socialization
Fundraising Events
Adoption Events
Photography
Videography
Become a volunteer here!
Rescue One gives their all 100% of the time! They work tirelessly to help pets in our community. We got our dog from them about 6 years ago. We still have a relationship with his foster family and he's an amazing dog! We are so grateful for this rescue and all of their hard work day in and day out!
-Janell D
rescueonespringfield@gmail com