End of summer update

In memory of bump

It is with great sadness that we announce Bump's passing

Bump is with us in spirit now. His little body could not fight the illness that took over.

Bump came to us eight years ago as an adult silky banty rooster. During his life at River's Wish he was absolutely adored by so many. His personality was as big as any draft horse living here. 
Bump did so much during his life. From being part of a senior portrait for one of our volunteers, to attending 'Reading Night' at a local Montessori school, to a surprise birthday party where he made the birthday girl's heart burst with joy.

It was customary for visitors to hold Bump. He just melted in your arms. Bump helped people resolve their fear of roosters. Well, sometimes. He could also be mischievous and chase people, meeting up with their legs, and giving them a peck. In fact, his name came from how his pecks felt...just a sharp little Bump! Though his pecks were small, Bump was larger than life.

Over the past years Dr. McConnell at Animal Clinic of Spokane Inc. P.S. was his avian vet. We are so grateful to Dr. McConnell for his fondness and caring of Bump. In July, Bump had a small growth removed from his throat and sent to a lab. He was being treated for this, but this past weekend Bump took a very sudden turn for the worse. As prey animals, birds hide their illness. It is hard to believe that the somewhat perky Bump who meandered in the garden on Saturday is the same little guy who we had to say goodbye to on Tuesday. 
Bump was taken to the Washington State University (WSU) veterinary hospital on Sunday where they gave him fluids, antibiotics and placed him in an oxygen tank. Their plan was to remove the mass that was growing in his throat. They discovered that removing it would be unnecessary pain and lead to his death. If left alone he would basically suffocate. I was able to hold Bump in my arms and cry with him. I called Pete and we Facetimed so he could talk to Bump. It was so difficult knowing I would not be able to walk into the bunny barn and see him marching around or hold him in my arms or hand him to a friend to hold. 
Thank you Dr. Finch at WSU and thank you Dr. McConnell at Animal Clinic. And thank you to the volunteers who made Bump's life better and to everyone who loved this little rooster who made a huge impact in our lives.

We exist to care for precious souls like Bump. He brought so much joy to those who met him, and helped those unfamiliar with chickens and roosters learn more about their special personalities, deserving of love and care. 

We could not do what we do without your generous support. Thank you again.

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Shop our new online store

One of the ways you can support River's Wish, is by shopping our merchandise. We've got water bottles, t-shirts, art prints, and more. 

We'll be adding more items over the next month or so, such as hats, new t-shirt styles, note cards, and other ways you can help spread the word about River's Wish, the residents that call us home, and the work we do. 

We appreciate your support!

Shop Now

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New communications cadence

Starting this month, you'll be getting two updates from us per month. The first update will provide information about events, happenings the shelter, and other news about River's Wish. 
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The second update will be a profile about one of our residents, with pictures, and maybe even a video sometimes. We want you to get to know the special animals that call River's Wish home, especially during this time when we are closed to the public.