THE JOURNEY OF KURT RUSSELL

AND RESCUES ON85TH

A PAW THAT CHANGED EVERYTHING

This is the true story of Kurt Russell, the dog who changed everything, and how RESCUES ON85TH was born. It all began on 85th Street in South Eastlake, Alabama—a place where I walked my dogs daily and witnessed the heartbreaking reality of abandoned and stray animals. Some were tossed from cars to avoid shelter fees, others left to fend for themselves. The worst of all were those who didn't make it—starved, lifeless, forgotten.

THE FIRST MEETING

One day, as I walked past an overturned trash can, I saw a tail sticking out. A scrawny dog cautiously emerged, his matted fur tangled with leaves and grime. His ribs jutted out from hunger, and his eyes held a quiet desperation. He hesitated, unsure whether to trust or flee. I watched as he followed a woman’s car at a distance, hoping for kindness. That moment haunted me. I rushed home, but I couldn’t shake the feeling that I had to help him.

THE RESCUE

Determined, I returned to find him. I had no money, no fancy supplies—just love and a place where he would be safe. That was all I had to offer, and it was all he needed.

That’s when everything changed. I reached out for help—begged, even—until five local superheroes (veterinarians and businesses) and a community of 25 others rallied together. They donated grooming services, vaccinations, food, and supplies, giving this abandoned soul a chance. His transformation was incredible. It took four baths before I finally saw his true colors—literally. My son, overhearing me sweet-talking this new dog, peeked into the bathroom. “Mom, I know that’s not another dog,” he said, amused. When I explained the situation, he grinned. “Name him Kurt Russell.” And so, the name stuck.

A NEW BEGINNING

Kurt Russell went from a starving street dog to a healthy, cherished companion. He had his own bed, his own food, and finally, his own sense of peace. That first night, he curled up under me—a gesture of trust that spoke louder than words. He exhaled deeply, as if releasing the weight of his past. As I listened to his soft snores, I realized that he wasn’t just another rescue—he was a symbol of every lost soul that needed saving.

A BIGGER PURPOSE

Because of Kurt Russell, I saw the depth of the problem. I started visiting landfills and shelters, seeing firsthand what happened to the forgotten. Dogs pressed their noses through gates, desperate for human touch. Others cried, hoping someone would take them home. And then there were those who had given up, heads lowered, accepting their fate. Euthanasia wasn’t their fault—it was the result of a system with no space, no resources, and not enough people willing to help. I couldn’t unsee it, and I couldn’t turn away.

THE BIRTH OF RESCUES ON85TH

When I found deceased animals, I tried to take them to pet funeral homes to give them dignity in death. That was the turning point. I knew I had to do more. That’s when RESCUES ON85TH was born.

With time, the community stepped up. Groomers, veterinarians, and even businesses that made wheelchairs for disabled animals joined the mission. We are still working on securing consistent food donations and more resources, but we continue to educate and spread awareness. Now, we even have a mascot—a shepherd named Manny, who helps collect supplies and raise awareness. We’re working on creating a cat mascot named Mittens.

WHY I CONTINUE THIS MISSION

I volunteer my time at RESCUES ON85TH, asking for nothing in return—not a cent. I do this because of Kurt Russell. Because every animal deserves a voice. Because no life should be discarded like trash. Walking a mile in someone’s paws is just like walking a mile in someone’s shoes. Kurt Russell showed me that, and RESCUES ON85TH stands for that change—for compassion, dignity, and life.