'Believe there is good in the world': Community rallies around puppy rescued from Webster

WEBSTER ― Just a week after putting out the call for help , Webster Animal Control said a member of the community took it upon herself to raise money for Ziggy, a dog rescued from an alleged animal cruelty situation.

Jacquelynne Mercado started a GoFundMe page for Ziggy after hearing about the dog's tale and raised more than $12,000 for the 11-month-old puppy.

"I saw the need and I thought, well I know how to make a GoFundMe," Mercado said. "From my point of view, when someone asks for or needs help, you help. The same goes for animals."

Mercado is originally from Dudley and now lives in Webster with her partner and their three dogs, Sophie, Mabel and Durga. The family lost Scampers, a cocker spaniel mix, earlier this summer.

"I just felt really motivated to help," she said. "Nothing is guaranteed, you know? And Ziggy, she's just the beginning; so many animals need help."

Mercado said she plans on leaving the GoFundMe active for the next week and will collect donations for both Ziggy and other animals in need of veterinary care.

"Believe there is good in the world," the Webster police wrote on social media, thanking Mercado for her efforts to help raise funds for Ziggy's medical care.

Mercado visited the department to deliver the first round of donations and meet Ziggy in person.

"She's such a cute little spunky girl, just loving and constantly looking to be petted," Mercado said.

BElieve THEre is GOOD in the world! We’d like to send a huge THANK YOU to Jacquelynne Mercado for starting a Go Fund Me...

Posted by Webster Police Department Massachusetts on Friday, September 27, 2024

Ziggy was rescued from a home on Nelson Street last week. Her owner, Cordell Gignilliat, was arrested on a warrant stemming from an animal cruelty investigation. He was charged with three counts of animal cruelty.

Ziggy was in need of thousands of dollars' worth of medical care, stemming from abuse, Webster Animal Control said.

Ziggy is currently being fostered in the home of Webster Animal Control Officer Desiree Roussin, where she will remain until further notice. Roussin is working with Tufts to make sure Ziggy gets the care she needs; her first appointment was Friday morning.

This article originally appeared on Telegram & Gazette: 'Believe there is good in the world': Community rallies around puppy rescued from Webster