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.

Where It All Began
It started on 85th Street in South Eastlake, Alabama, where I walked my dogs and witnessed the daily heartbreak of animals abandoned, starved, and discarded. Some were thrown from cars to avoid shelter fees, others left to die alone. I couldn’t look away.

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The First Meeting
One day, I passed an overturned trash can and saw a tail sticking out. A frail, matted dog emerged—his ribs sharp, his eyes weary. He followed a car at a distance, silently hoping for kindness. That image never left me.

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The Rescue
I returned, determined to help him. I had no money or supplies—only love and a safe space to offer. I reached out for help. Five local veterinarians and businesses stepped in, and over two dozen community members donated what they could. His transformation was miraculous. After four baths, I saw his real coat for the first time. My son overheard me talking to the dog and said, “Mom, I know that’s not another dog.” When I explained, he smiled and said, “Name him Kurt Russell.” The name stuck.

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A New Beginning
Kurt Russell went from starving and scared to safe and loved. That night, he curled up beneath me and let out a deep sigh—the kind that says, “I’m finally home.” In that moment, I realized he wasn’t just another rescue. He was the reason.

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A Bigger Purpose
Inspired by Kurt, I visited landfills and shelters. I saw dogs pressed to gates, crying for touch, and others who had given up entirely. I saw the impact of a broken system—too few resources, too little space, too many lives lost. I knew I had to do more.

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The Birth of RESCUES ON85TH
I began giving even dignity to the deceased, trying to take them to pet funeral homes. That was the turning point. RESCUES ON85TH was born—not just to rescue animals, but to honor them.

The mission grew. Groomers, veterinarians, and even wheelchair makers for disabled animals joined. We continue to grow and advocate, with a team that believes in every life.

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What We Do Today
RESCUES ON85TH is a volunteer-led organization providing support for animals and the people who love them. We distribute pet food and supplies at the BJCC/CityWalk in Birmingham, Alabama. We serve families, the unhoused, and anyone needing help with their Furry Family Members.

We partner with Greater Good Charities, United Way, the Birmingham Humane Society, and OneRoof to provide services such as free food, vaccinations, referrals for spay/neuter, grooming, and more.

Kurt Russell made all of this possible. RESCUES ON85TH continues because of him—and because no animal should be thrown away, forgotten, or denied a second chance.