Carli Clesmere 
There is nothing we love more than a feel-good story, especially when it comes with four paws and a wagging tail. That is why The Local Girl team is launching a brand new monthly series dedicated to sharing rescue dogs in need of homes in New Jersey. Each month, we’ll spotlight one very special dog from Wise Animal Rescue. Sometimes it will be a pup still searching for a forever home, and other times, it will be a sweet success story or a comeback tale that reminds us just how resilient rescues can be. Along the way, we will be raising funds for Wise Animal Rescue and partnering with Bond Vet to help make an even bigger impact. Read on to learn more about Wise Animal Rescue, Bond Vet, and how this new series is helping local pups find the forever homes they deserve.
This Series is Sponsored by Bond Veterinary Group
This series is sponsored by Bond Veterinary Group, which is also providing a $150 gift of vet services to each animal we feature.
At Bond Vet, pet care is centered around one simple belief: it should feel thoughtful, transparent, and as stress-free as possible. The modern veterinary clinic provides urgent and primary care for cats and dogs, pairing high-quality medicine with a warm, welcoming experience designed for both pets and their people. With convenient locations, extended hours, and seamless online booking, accessing care is simple and efficient. From routine checkups to unexpected illnesses and injuries, Bond Vet is a trusted partner in every stage of a pet’s health journey. Bond has locations throughout New Jersey, including Hoboken, Jersey City, and Montclair.
Each adopted pet will receive a $150 credit to Bond Vet, applicable toward a future visit for care. It is a meaningful way to support a healthy, happy start in a new home.
Adoptable of the Month: Snowballz
If you have ever believed in second chances, Snowballz is your sign. This tiny 12-year-old gentleman is proof that it is never too late for a fresh start and a forever home filled with love. He was born in a puppy mill, where he was used for breeding for 12 years before finally being able to “just be a dog” in the care of Wise Animal Rescue’s foster program.
Here’s more about him, and a link below to fill out an adoption application.
If you’re reading this and adopting a dog isn’t in the cards for you right now, you can still help! Wise handles a lot of medical cases and is always in need of donations. As little as $5 can add up to make a big difference: donate here.
Snowballz at a Glance
Name: Snowballz
Breed: Maltese x Yorkshire Terrier
DOB: August 16, 2013 (12 years, 5 months)
Home Recommendation: Snowballz would thrive in a patient, affectionate home where he can enjoy plenty of companionship and not be left alone for long periods. In a calm, nurturing environment, he will build trust through consistency and reward his people with loyal, loving companionship.
Why He Came to Wise: Snowballz spent his life as a breeding dog in a puppy mill and was at risk of being discarded when he was no longer profitable. Thankfully, Wise Animal Rescue stepped in to give him a second chance at experiencing the warmth and safety of a real home.
Personality: Snowballz is curious, gentle, and happiest curled up in your lap, soaking up affection. He loves exploring, enjoys a cozy bed, and thrives in calm spaces filled with hugs and cuddles.
Kids: Yes
Dogs: Yes
Cats: Yes
Training: Snowballz is doing great on the leash and enjoys long walks where he can explore his surroundings. He is still working on potty training and learning to use pads indoors, sleeps through the night, and sweetly lets you know when he is ready to start his day.
P.S. Our team got the chance to spend some time with Snowballz, and we can confirm he is as sweet as his name suggests. Gentle, cuddly, and happiest in your lap, he is truly just looking for someone to love him back.
DONATE $5 TO WISE (you can also Venmo @wise-animalrescue if easier!)
About Wise Animal Rescue
Since March 2015, Wise Animal Rescue has been saving dogs in need across New Jersey and beyond — and has rescued thousands of dogs across the region, finding them forever homes. The organization is a 501C3 nonprofit and 100% volunteer and foster-based, which means every dog is placed in a loving home instead of a traditional shelter. From seniors to puppies, giant breeds to super tiny, and pets with a myriad of medical conditions, each one receives the same thing first and foremost: love.
Beyond rescue, the team focuses heavily on education and advocacy by promoting responsible pet ownership and raising awareness about unethical breeding practices and the inhumane conditions many dogs face before entering rescue. A meaningful part of its work is ensuring every dog is thoughtfully matched with the right forever home, setting both the pup and their future family up for long term success.
Most recently, Wise rescued 20 breeder mama and papa adult Malteses, which required over $20,000 in medical bills to ensure each senior dog received proper care after being saved from a commercial breeding facility. They’re also The Hoboken Girl’s non-profit partner in The Rainbow Bridge Project, which will be providing a safe and loving space for the community to grieve pets that have passed on.
Supporting Wise is not just something we write about; it is something we truly believe in.
Please join us in helping this amazing organization, whether it’s sharing their posts online, donating your time or resources, or considering adoption.
Thank you to Bond Vet for sponsoring this monthly initiative!
DONATE THROUGH VENMO: @wise-animalrescue
DONATE THROUGH ZELLE/PAYPAL: [email protected]
DONATE DIRECTLY THROUGH WISE: wiseanimalrescue.org
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