They may be getting up in years, but senior dogs still want to have fun. Getting out and about with their beloved folks is a big part of keeping them happy and healthy.
Just ask Shelley, who will celebrate her 16th birthday on May 1. She's one of the resident dogs at the Lily's Legacy Senior Dog Sanctuary, and takes her responsibilities as office supervisor quite seriously. From the time she arrived at age 14, Shelley’s hind legs were a bit wobbly, but it didn’t slow her down. Then, a few months ago, her hind-end weakness reached a point where she couldn't stand up. Shelley became depressed. Luckily, a kind benefactor got her a set of custom wheels, which quickly restored her zest for life and access to the outside world.
Alice Mayn, Lily's Legacy’s founder, reports that Shelley has developed lots of front body strength, and her hind legs are also getting stronger. "She even gets up and walks (OK wobbles) a few feet daily," says Mayn. "And while being supported with a harness, she likes to take a few laps around the large back yard once or twice a day.
"It's very heartwarming to see this transformation," she adds. "Shelley definitely still has a lot of living (and sniffing) to do.” She’s at home at the Sanctuary, and there she’ll stay — you can help sponsor Shelley and other sanctuary residents.
Meanwhile, over at Muttville Senior Dog Rescue, Louie, formerly known as Beluga, has just landed a forever home, where he's looking forward to a life of of fun, exploration, and snuggles on the couch. No one told this affectionate, playful guy that's he's supposed to be an old dog at age 8-10; as far as he's concerned, he's a big Lab puppy with the joie de vivre to match.
Louie landed in the shelter with a huge, mysterious bump on his head, which made him look like a Beluga whale. His cheerful personality won him fans at the shelter, and they called on the good folks at Muttville for help. Soon he was getting medical attention and enjoying the comforts of a foster home. Before he had surgery to remove the tumor, he charmed many a passer-by with his wardrobe of protective hats. Now recovering from his medical adventures, he's looking at a bright future with his forever family — and a brother who's also a Muttville alum.
