What started as a hilarious wildlife encounter in Virginia has turned into a massive win for animals in need.
In early December, Hanover County Animal Protection shared a now-viral Facebook post about a raccoon discovered unconscious in the bathroom of an Ashland ABC liquor store after breaking in and ransacking shelves. The shelter jokingly described the raccoon, often nicknamed a “trash panda,” as having gone on a “class A bender.”
Officer Martin responded to the unusual call and safely transported the raccoon back to the shelter, where he slept it off. After a few hours and no signs of injury, aside from what the shelter humorously called “poor life choices,” the raccoon was released back into the wild.
The internet quickly fell in love with the story. Just two days later, Bonfire launched a line of “trashed panda” merchandise featuring an artistic depiction of the sprawled-out raccoon, with all proceeds benefiting the shelter. By December 5, the fundraiser had already reached $100,000.
The support didn’t stop there. The total has now surpassed $180,000, with funds going directly toward caring for animals at the Hanover shelter and training officers to respond to future wildlife emergencies, whether they involve raccoons, rescues, or the occasional unexpected hangover.
From bathroom floor to fundraising legend, the “trashed panda” has proven that even the most unexpected moments can lead to something wonderfully good.
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