Welcome
Why We Rescue
Cooper's Chance Animal Rescue is a green-focused, 501c3 nonprofit, no-kill animal rescue established in 2006. Our mission is to rescue, rehabilitate, and re-home abused and neglected animals. We are dedicated to the welfare of these animals and the delicate ecosystem we share. We save all breeds and focus our efforts on animals in need of extra care. Our rescued pets are placed into loving foster homes and receive one on one attention, complete vet care, training, and socialization. We also work with the community to educate and promote responsible pet care and stewardship for all living things.
Cooper's Chance Animal Rescue was started in 2006 by our Founder and President, Shannon Steemke after a tragedy involving her beloved dog, Cooper. Every year thousands of shelter dogs are adopted by loving families, hoping to give them a safe place to call home. But because of issues from abuse and neglect, those animals never receive the proper rehabilitation to cure their fears. Most pet owners do not know how to train their shelter dogs, and some issues continue to grow until they are bigger than the owner can handle. Sadly, those dogs are often returned to the shelter, only to be euthanized. Cooper's Chance rescues dogs who need extra time to heal, then focuses our efforts on rehabilitation, giving them a second chance.
Our Mission
We are a 501c3 nonprofit animal rescue dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation, and rehoming of abused and neglected pets. We rely on public donations for support. You can donate to any of our programs below. All donations are tax-deductible.
EIN: 26-3634154
Our Story
Cooper's Story by Shannon Steemke, Founder
Cooper was my beloved dog, rescued from the county shelter in 1998. She was sick with kennel cough, underweight with obvious signs of abuse; the county shelter had no room for a dog so unlikely to be adopted. After learning she was scheduled for euthanasia, I rushed to adopt her, believing I could give her a safe place to heal from abuse and neglect. From the beginning, she showed behavioral issues; dog aggression, and separation anxiety. She was given the best care, affection, treats, and toys, but her spirit was never repaired. No amount of love can take away years of abuse. Then one afternoon, unprovoked, she attacked me, injuring my left ear, I was rushed to the hospital for surgery, and Cooper was removed from the home. A senseless tragedy that could have been prevented with proper rehabilitation. Since then, I have made it my mission to create a rescue that focuses on the rehabilitation of the animal, not just adoption. Every member of our organization is dedicated to giving rescued pets the chance they deserve; Cooper's chance. Thank you for your support.
Rescue Programs
Second Chance Medical Fund
Pawsitive Beginnings Puppy Rehab
Pawsitive Beginnings Puppy Rehab
The Second Chance Medical Fund is the bedrock of our organization. It gives lifesaving care to abused and neglected dogs that would otherwise be euthanized without immediate treatment. Funds provide the medical treatment needed to save a homeless pet's life in an emergency, giving it a second chance.
Pawsitive Beginnings Puppy Rehab
Pawsitive Beginnings Puppy Rehab
Pawsitive Beginnings Puppy Rehab
Pawsitive Beginnings Puppy Rehabilitation Program is where moms and pups go to become happy, healthy pets. Once rescued, they are placed into loving foster homes where they receive medical care, enrichment, socialization, and training until they are adopted.
The Dignity Fund
Pawsitive Beginnings Puppy Rehab
The Dignity Fund
The Dignity Fund gives terminally ill shelter pets end-of-life hospice care with peace and dignity. Through this program, shelter dogs in need of palliative support are rescued and placed into compassionate foster homes so that they do not have to suffer at a shelter. Funds provide comfort to a dying pet, not a cure, as we concentrate on giving exceptional care by an in-home veterinarian, and when the time comes, holding a paw to help them cross the Rainbow Bridge with peace and dignity.
Our Partners
Give A Lifesaving Gift
Will you make a difference for a homeless pet? Give a heartfelt gift to animals who need you the most. Big or small, every donation matters to homeless pets.