Update as of 1/8/2026

Stitch’s Happy Ending

On December 26, 2025, Stitch was moved to Saratoga Springs, NY to complete the final ten days of his recovery. At that point, our hope was simple: That his future family would find him.

Less than 24 hours later, everything changed.

On a bitterly cold Saturday — just as the snow was beginning to fall — Stitch met his person. Their eyes met, and in that quiet, unmistakable moment, a bond was formed. It was perfect timing in every sense: someone searching for a young, intelligent, energetic dog eager to learn, and a sweet, resilient pup ready to step fully into the life he had fought so hard to reclaim.

On January 5th, Stitch completed his final hydrotherapy appointment — strong, confident, and ready to run. Just three days later, his adoption was made official.

Stitch’s journey is one of resilience, healing, and hope—and it would not have been possible without the incredible support of this community. To everyone who followed his story, donated to his care, shared his updates, or simply rooted for him from afar: Thank you. Your generosity through the Purrfectly Marty Fund helped give Stitch not just a second chance, but the happy, healthy future he deserves.

Stories like Stitch’s are why we do this work. And because of you, his story has the ending we all hoped for.

Update as of 12/5/2025

Steadily gaining strength and enjoying the snow

Stitch began hydrotherapy on November 19th, 2025 and has been steadily building strength through structured leash walks and stair work. He is now off all pain medication and absolutely crushing it at his twice-weekly rehab sessions. He even got to experience his first snowfall recently—the joy on his face was unforgettable.

Stitch is a smart, energetic boy who thrives on enrichment and loves toys that make him think. He lives for adventure, exploring new places with curiosity and confidence. Though he’s doing well in his foster home, we’re learning that his ideal future home will need plenty of space for him to run and work.

As a true herder, Stitch has an abundance of energy and a natural instinct to “manage” the world around him. He is still the same sweet, cuddly boy we fell in love with—affectionate with his people, successful with older children, and able to live harmoniously with other dogs with proper guidance.

Stitch will shine in a home that can give him a job, room to roam, and the active lifestyle he deserves. He’s eager to learn, ready to work, and waiting for the right family to help him grow into the incredible partner he’s meant to be.

Original Blog: 10/10/25

Donate to Help Stitch Here

Meet Stitch:

A 6-month-old Collie mix, weighing just over 25 pounds, and bursting with love, energy, and endless puppy kisses. He came to H.O.P.E. through an owner surrender, with little information about his first few months of life.

Despite the unknowns, Stitch’s sweet nature shone immediately. He quickly became a fan favorite – gentle with children, playful with other dogs, and full of the bright, curious energy you’d expect from a young working breed.

But soon after he arrived, something didn’t seem right. His former owner mentioned some “back-end sensitivity,” and we noticed a hitch in his step. After x-rays and a second veterinary opinion, we got the heartbreaking news: Stitch has a fractured femoral head in his left hip.

The only way to give this sweet boy a chance at a pain-free life is surgery — an FHO (Femoral Head Ostectomy) – and he needs it as soon as possible. His recovery will be long, especially for a growing puppy, lasting 6 to 8 weeks with strict rest and limited

Now, Stitch needs two things from his H.O.P.E. family:

1. A Healing Home:

We’re looking for a quiet foster home where Stitch can recover safely and comfortably.

For the first two weeks post-surgery, Stitch will need:

  • Strict crate rest
  • Short, controlled potty breaks only
  • No stairs, play, or jumping
  • Plenty of patience and gentle companionship

Following the first 2-3 weeks of recovery, Stitch’s foster family will also play a key role in his healing. He’ll need help getting to his physical therapy sessions and staying consistent with the recovery plan set by his veterinary team. His surgeon will be located in Ballston Spa, NY, so we’re hoping to find a foster home within about 30 minutes of the area to make these appointments manageable.

If you or someone you know can open your heart and home to help Stitch heal, please reach out to us at [email protected] or submit a foster application at hopeanimalrescue.org.

& We cannot schedule Stitch’s surgery until a foster home is secured – and time is of the essence.

2. A Helping Hand:

If fostering isn’t possible, you can still make a powerful difference for Stitch.

His surgery alone will cost at least $3,000, not including follow-up appointments or physical therapy.

Every dollar – truly, even one – matters in helping us give Stitch the care he deserves.

Please consider donating to our Purrfectly Marty Fund, which provides lifesaving medical support for dogs and cats like Stitch.

Stitch has already endured more than any puppy should, but with your support, we can give him a future filled with love, comfort, and second chances.

Because when we come together, HOPE heals.