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A Message From Lindsay Vacanti
We adopted Milwaukee when she was 6 years old, after she had been returned to the shelter at least twice due to behaviors brought on by a traumatic past. From the moment she came home with us, she proved that third time really is the charm! It took some time for her to learn to trust, but she proved to be the kissiest, sweetest soul we’ve ever known—a gentle, goofy girl who turned our couple into a family.
She didn’t just heal from her own past; she helped others heal too. Millie became the guiding light for our two additional rescue pups, who came to us from heartbreaking conditions. With endless patience and care, she showed them what love and safety looked like. When our daughter was born, Millie took on yet another role: protector, snuggler, and big sister. She did it all with grace, tail wags, and so so many kisses. She even helped teach our daughter to walk!
Unfortunately, Millie passed away a few months ago. Though our hearts are broken, we’re forever grateful for the 6 years we had together. She changed our lives forever and touched the lives of so many others along the way.
We’re entering her into this competition, not just because she was beautiful stubby little cow (though she truly was), but because she's proof that even the most difficult dogs deserve second—or third—chances. We hope Milwaukee's story helps raise funds for other pets waiting for their own happily ever afters.

In Support of Humane Society of West Michigan
Humane Society of West Michigan, a 501(c)3 non profit organization, assists over 8,000 animals annually. We are 100% donor-funded! We receive no funding from the government or national animal welfare organizations. Caring individuals and businesses in our community support our mission to rescue hurt, abused and abandoned animals and find them a new forever home. Additional programs help reduce pet overpopulation, provide assistance to low income pet owners, behaviorally assess animals and reunite lost pets with their owners.