A Ruff Day: Willow’s Unexpected Encounter

It was supposed to be a peaceful morning walk.

Willow

Willow, a joyful standard poodle with a heart as big as her fluffy tail, trotted beside her dad, Peter, along their usual trail in Eagan, Minnesota. The wildlife had always kept its distance—until it didn’t.

In an instant, a protective coyote emerged near its den. Willow, innocent and social, bounded toward what she thought was just another animal encounter. Peter watched in horror as Willow got too close. A yelp. A flash of fur. Blood. Willow was bitten and hurt.

Peter rushed her home, shaken. The fear lingered, but Willow stayed calm, her sweetness unchanged. Only the next day did he find the truth buried under her curls: a puncture wound the size of a fifty-cent coin, torn into her rump.

It was a holiday weekend, and every clinic seemed to be either full or far beyond what Peter could afford. He received quotes as high as $800 just to walk through the door. On a limited income, that was simply out of reach.

Then, someone told him about Mission Animal Hospital.

Peter arrived early the next morning. Willow was triaged quickly, and when her name was called, she walked in with a limp—and left wagging her tail.

Fortunately, the wound didn’t require stitches. Mission’s veterinary care team cleaned the injury, provided pain relief, antibiotics, and—perhaps most importantly—peace of mind.

The total cost to Peter? Less than $125. All thanks to our Mission Program, which provides donor-supported care for families facing financial hardship.

Mission Animal Hospital exists for moments like this.   For pets who are more than animals. For people who shouldn’t have to choose between heartbreak and help.

Today, Willow is recovering beautifully. Her dad still tears up retelling the story—not because of the fear, but because of the compassion he found when he needed it most.