She was saved just in time.
After 150 days in a shelter and a spot on the euthanasia list, a beach rescue dog named Santi got her second chance — thanks to a viral plea and an unexpected celebrity.
A LONG ROAD TO NOWHERE
Santi was found as a stray on Rockaway Beach in Queens, New York, in 2024 and brought to the shelter, where she was quickly adopted. A year later, she was returned due to separation anxiety, and her search for a family began all over again.
Santi spent over 150 days at Animal Care Centers of NYC. During that time, she became a volunteer favorite — but despite their best efforts, a permanent home never came. Eventually, her time ran out.
48 HOURS LEFT
Santi was placed on the euthanasia list due to medical concerns. The volunteers who loved her worked tirelessly to find someone who could help, but as the deadline approached, they had no luck.
With 48 hours left, one volunteer posted a tearful plea, hoping it would reach the right person.
And it did: Justin Theroux.
The actor, known for his roles in The Leftovers, Mulholland Drive and American Psycho, is a fierce animal advocate and the dad of a rescue pittie named Kuma. He often uses his platform to change the perception of pit bulls and show the world how wonderful they are. He reposted Santi’s story — and from there, someone saw it and stepped forward to foster her.
Just like that, Santi was saved.
OUT OF THE SHELTER
Santi was pulled by NYC Pawsome Squad and placed in a foster home. The rescue quickly set about getting her the care she needed, which included investigating her medical concerns. Unfortunately, they suspected she had degenerative myelopathy, a canine condition often compared to ALS in humans.
Despite her struggles, Santi’s spirit never dimmed. She was thrilled to be out of the shelter and in a real home, clearly loving every moment of it.
“The idea of her story ending in a shelter didn’t feel right — so people stepped in to rewrite it,” said Chelsea Domaleski, communications manager at Animal Farm Foundation.
WHAT SHE NEEDS
Santi’s rescuers are still learning exactly what her medical needs are and what care she may require going forward. Her foster family has committed to keeping her long-term in a fospice situation if necessary — but they haven’t given up hope of finding her a forever home.
“What Santi needs most is a calm, understanding home that can offer stability, patience and love as she navigates ongoing health challenges,” Domaleski said. “A relaxed environment with a secure backyard would be ideal — somewhere she can safely enjoy fresh air, gentle exploration and quiet comfort at her own pace.”
A STORY REWRITTEN
Santi’s journey has been long and fraught. But now she’s safe, loved and surrounded by people committed to making sure it stays that way — for the rest of her days.