At WVNSC, we consider ourselves incredibly fortunate to meet inspiring individuals every day.
One recent visitor left such a lasting impression on us that we felt compelled to share her story with you. Please meet Mary Palmer, a remarkable woman whose compassion and dedication have transformed the lives of countless animals.
Mary Palmer is 82 years young and the founder of Northcentral Maltese Rescue, Inc., an organization she began 24 years ago. For the past 20 years, it has proudly held 501(c)(3) nonprofit status. While the name might suggest a focus solely on Maltese dogs, the rescue’s mission is broader and even more meaningful.
Northcentral Maltese Rescue specializes in small, non-shedding dogs under twelve pounds—many of whom are overlooked, neglected, or at risk of euthanasia in shelters.
Mary’s heart lies with the “unadoptables”—the matted, dirty, often sick or injured dogs that others pass over. With the help of a dedicated local veterinarian, every rescued dog is immediately placed in isolation for five days, given vaccinations, spayed or neutered, and provided with a full dental and medical work-up. From there, they go to foster homes for further evaluation before being matched with a forever family. For those with terminal conditions or other challenges that make adoption unlikely, the rescue ensures they live out their days in loving permanent foster homes—fully supported by the organization.
Mary recently brought two very special patients to us at WVNSC, and we were honored to help.
The first was Roy Rogers, a three-year-old male West Highland Terrier who was unable to use his hind legs. An MRI revealed a T2 hyperintensity in the lumbar spinal cord, potentially due to gliosis (scar tissue), myelitis (inflammation), or another spinal condition. Roy has since been transferred to a dedicated Westie rescue in Michigan, where he is under the care of another neurologist. We’re hopeful he’ll find a loving home where he can thrive.
The second patient was a ten-month-old Shih Tzu named Cookie, affectionately nicknamed Circles by the vet techs due to her tendency to walk in circles—a sign of vestibular dysfunction. Cookie was blind and exhibited balance issues. An MRI was performed of her brain, along with a cerebrospinal fluid tap and full thyroid panel; all of the results were normal. Dr. Moeser diagnosed Cookie with congenital peripheral vestibular disease. While Cookie’s condition is likely permanent, she can enjoy a long, happy life in the right environment. Thanks to Mary and her team, she is now in foster care as they work toward finding her a loving, understanding home.
Mary Palmer’s work reminds us that every life matters—even those most would overlook.
If you’d like to support Northcentral Maltese Rescue, Inc. and help give dogs like Roy Rogers and Cookie a second chance, please consider making a donation through their website here.
