It’s been a while since I last sat down to write an article for The Bitch Barks. Like many of you, I often feel there simply aren’t enough hours in the day to do all that needs to be done.

I’ve been involved in rescue since late 2010 or early 2011, and I can honestly say—the number of animals in need seems to grow every day. The work is both beautiful and brutal. There’s nothing quite like the joy of watching an animal find their forever home. But behind every success are countless heartbreaking moments: abandoned pets, sick and injured souls, terrified and feral animals, all needing help. The sheer volume is staggering.

Along the way, I’ve met incredible people—rescue friends I might never have known if not for this shared mission. Many have lent a hand with animals in our community, and I now count them among my dearest friends. Rescue brings together people from all walks of life, united by one powerful goal: to save lives and give animals a better future.

But there’s a side to rescue people don’t always see. Over the years, I’ve lost several dear friends in rescue to suicide. Incredible human beings—loving families, passionate hearts, doing extraordinary work—who became overwhelmed by the weight of it all. I’ve seen the same with veterinarians and vet techs. And I know there are many others whose stories we may never hear.

Just this past week, I read about a young woman, only 29, who ended her life. Her name was Mikayla. Though I didn’t know her personally, her story moved me deeply. She accomplished something extraordinary—shutting down a fur factory and rescuing countless foxes. But instead of widespread celebration and support, she faced criticism for trying to manage so many animals, for buying the cages, for being overwhelmed.

Who in rescue hasn’t felt overwhelmed? Where is our community when someone needs help the most? We should be lifting each other up—not tearing each other down.

If you’re worried about a rescue or someone involved in it, reach out. Ask how you can help. Volunteer, foster, adopt, donate, or even just share a post. Offer hope instead of judgment. Because when people are forced to shut down or give up, it’s not just them who suffer—animals lose their chance too.

After all this time in rescue, one truth remains clear: the people who do this work are among the most compassionate, selfless souls I’ve ever known. They fight against what often feels like an endless tide of suffering, and every life saved is a glimmer of hope in a sea of need.

You might not personally connect with every rescuer, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t helping. Personality differences shouldn’t divide us when our mission is the same.

We’re all in this together. Let’s support one another, not criticize. Let’s be the community these animals—and the people who fight for them—so desperately need.

For those who want to learn more about Mikayla’s story, here’s the Facebook post. She was an extraordinary young woman, gone far too soon. I wish I had known her.