Set up a Monthly Sponsorship Plan through PayPal. Or make a one-time donation to the dog of your choice.
![]() It's fast, easy, and secure.
![]() One-time donation to help a senior dog
![]() ![]() $5 a month provides heartworm protection for your dog
![]() ![]() $10 a month contributes to feeding your dog
![]() ![]() $15 a month contributes to your dog's medical care
![]() ![]() $20 a month contributes to your dog's total care
![]() ![]() $25 a month contributes to your dog's total care
![]() ![]() $50 a month contributes to your dog's total care
![]() ![]() If you are interested in other sponsorship amounts, please contact the Sanctuary.
![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() |
The Sanctuary for Senior Dogs | home
![]() Mission Statement | Please Foster/Adopt Us! | Adopted! | Forever Fosters--Sponsor a Senior Dog | Upcoming Events | The SCOOP | Graying Muzzles Calendar & Photo Contest | Why Should I Adopt a Senior Dog? | Seniors for Seniors & Therapy Dogs | The Georgia Memorial Therapy Dog Fund: The Bridges One Old Dog Can Build | Spay/Neuter Senior Dogs | In Memory | Old Dog Stories | Giving up Your Senior Dog | Doggone Good Links | Support the Sanctuary | Contact the Sanctuary | Thank You!
![]() Forever Fosters--Sponsor a Senior Dog
![]() Scroll down for Sanctuary Losses.
Can't adopt or foster a senior dog? You can still help. All of the dogs featured below are Forever Fosters at The Sanctuary for Senior Dogs. They are not currently available for adoption for a variety of reasons; some have constant medical needs; some are in the final stages of illness; some have special emotional needs; Almonzo and Ivy serve the Sanctuary as therapy dogs and official spokesdogs while Roxy and Pollyanna are in training to join our therapy dog program.
You can sponsor one of our Forever Fosters (or an adoptable dog waiting for a forever home) through our Sponsor a Sanctuary Senior program. Your contribution provides food and ongoing medical care for our Sanctuary Seniors. Without sponsors like you, the Sanctuary could not continue its mission of protecting and caring for old dogs that cannot be adopted. In return for your support, you will receive quarterly e-news updates on our Forever Fosters. If possible, we will arrange for a visit with the dog you sponsor if you are local to Cleveland. Please be sure to tell us which dog you would like to sponsor.
You may send a check and indicate which dog you would like to sponsor, or you may contact the Sanctuary for a sponsorship form; you can also set up your sponsorship through the links to PayPal at the bottom or the left side of this page. The dog you sponsor will be grateful for your help.
SANCTUARY FOREVER FOSTERS & IN MEMORY
![]() ![]() Harley, a senior Collie mix found himself alone when his person entered the hospital and was not returning. Although our work is with senior dogs abandoned in pounds and shelters, we learned of Harley's need and one of our wonderful foster caregivers stepped up to take him in. He is a happy, well-adjusted fellow as these pictures taken the day he arrived show. He has a large tumor and some of the worst teeth was have seen in a while. We were hopeful that his tumor could be removed and his teeth cleaned, but sadly, x-rays revealed large tumors on his liver and his spleen that could not safely be removed. As a result, Harley is receiving the best palliative care possible and is living in his foster home surrounded by the love of his family--both human and canine.
You can help us meet Harley's medical costs by becoming a sponsor or by making a one-time donation for his care.
![]() ![]() ![]() Meet Markie, a 7-year-old Shih Tzu mix came to the Sanctuary from Lucas County Canine Care & Control frail, severely underweight, frightened, and ill, so much so that he could not be safely groomed without stressing him. We cleaned him up as best we could and cut out some mats. But over his time with us, he has regained his health and is now available for adoption. Markie is blind but that doesn't stop him from enjoying his life, taking walks, and snuggling with his foster family.
Markie has had some health issues that became more serious recently, so he will stay with his foster family for life. He will receive all the care he needs and all the love he could hope for.
You can help us meet Markie's medical costs by sponsoring him or by making a one-time donation for his care.
Photo of Markie on the left courtesy of Portraits by Martha.
![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() Claude, a 10- to 12-year old Brussels Griffon, came to the Sanctuary in early May of 2019 from Cleveland Animal Care & Control when he was picked up as a stray and not claimed. Claude is low vision and hearing, but he is full of life, enjoys walks around the neighborhood, and loves a good cuddle on a stormy night. He has had a much needed dental and neuter, and he is now ready for the next phase in his journey.
During his time with his foster family, we have learned that Claude often feels intimidated or threatened by other animals, cats and dogs alike, so his ideal home will be a quiet one without children or other animals so that he can adjust and gain confidence. He loves the attention of his people and will make an excellent best friend.
After developing some chronic health issues, Claude has become a member of our Forever Foster program, staying in the home that he knows where he will have lots of love and excellent health care for life.
You can help us meet Claude's medical costs by sponsoring him or by making a one-time donation for his care.
Photo of Claude on the right courtesy of Portraits by Martha
![]() ![]() ![]() Bubbles, a 10-year-old large, mixed breed dog, has had a tough time of it. She was frightened and bolted out of her foster home shortly after she arrived in the spring of last year. Sanctuary volunteers tracked her thanks to Facebook tips and the help of Cleveland Animal Care & Control.
Bubbles has come a long, long way from the frightened dog she was. She had begun to relax and enjoy her life in an in-home boarding situation. But now she has found a home with a gentleman who is working to make sure she has the life she deserves. She has a stable home with someone who will love her and care for her for life. Bubbles enjoys daily walks to the park and lots of pets and treats.
Heartworm positive, Bubbles is undergoing the slow-kill treatment to avoid a disruption in her life and a setback in her progress. She is asymptomatic and has been receiving treatment for a year. We are hoping that her heartworm disease will be resolved soon.
You can help us meet the cost of Bubbles' medical care and supplies by sponsoring her or by making a one-time donation for her care.
Photo of Bubbles on the left courtesy of Portraits by Martha.
![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() Chalupa, 11-year-old Lab/Hound. She's energetic, strong, and playful with soulful eyes and a great personality once she is comfortable. She loves to go on adventures and hops willingly into your car. She enjoys walks and meeting new people. An inveterate counter surfer, Chalupa can be protective of her food especially if she has just swiped it from the counter. She sometimes gets along well with most other dogs her size after a carefully orchestrated introduction. But we believe she would do best as the only pet in the household. Devoted to the people who care for her, Chalupa is a joy to be around.
Healthy except for hypothyroidism controlled with an inexpensive daily medication, Chalupa was adopted last year, but sadly her adopter fell ill and had to return her. Since then, she has had a rough go of it. She spent some time in boarding while we looked for a new foster for her. In an almost unbelievable turn of events, a family member in her new foster home became gravely ill, and once again Chalupa found herself in boarding. She is currently living at the Sanctuary office where she gets lots of love and attention, but it isn't the home that she deserves.
A great gal who needs a family to understand her and work with her to bring out the best in her, she can be a bit anxious after being moved around so many times. But she does well being left alone with the help of a heavy duty crate provided by the Sanctuary. She would do best with a foster who can spend quality time with her, continue her positive reinforcement training, and allow her to relax. Chalupa deserves so much more. Please help us by fostering her. The Sanctuary assumes all financial responsibility for Chalupa while in foster care.
Update: Chalupa moved into the Sanctuary-owned Q House where she lived with two caregivers until they bought a home of their own and took Chalupa along to live with them as a Forever Foster.
You can help us meet Chalupa's medical costs by sponsoring her or by making a one-time donation for her care. For more information about the Sanctuary's Q House, please contact us.
Photos of Chalupa courtesy of Portraits by Martha.
![]() ![]() ![]() Cecil, a senior Pomeranian, came to the Sanctuary as an "angry" little dog. He had been in two separate shelters where he made his displeasure over being kenneled known to anyone who came near. In his Sanctuary foster home, he still has sudden angry outbursts, but they are now fewer than before. He is shown here on an outing with his foster family who lavish him with affection, toys, and treats. Cecil has been neutered and had a benign testicular tumor removed. Because his behavior is so unpredictable and because we cannot definitively identify the cause of it, Cecil will stay in his Sanctuary Forever Foster home for life. He will be safe and loved and not want for anything.
You can help us meet the cost of Cecil's medical care and supplies by sponsoring him or by making a one-time donation for his care.
Photo of Cecil on the right courtesy of Portraits by Martha
![]() ![]() ![]() Shadow (FKA Bizzy), a sweet Dachshund/Beagle mix, came to us in January of 2016 from an Ohio dog pound where she found herself when her family was evicted and she was left to fend for herself on the cold streets. A kind neighbor found her and took her to the pound but not before she learned some of Shadow's background, including her real name that she responds to with enthusiasm. Shadow is now 12 years old and has had at least 3 litters of pups.
When she arrived, she had a nasty yeast infection of the skin due to long untreated allergies. Once it had cleared, she was spayed and had some benign lumps and bumps removed. Shadow loves everyone she meets and was being considered for our therapy dog program. She did well in her first two training courses and excelled on a trial visit with a group of seniors recently. But her reactivity to other dogs makes her not a good fit for therapy work.
After a long and carefully orchestrated introduction, she lived peacefully with the other dogs in her foster home for a while, but she ultimately cannot be trusted with other dogs because loud noises trigger reactivity in her. She absolutely despises cats, screaming long and loudly whenever she sees one. Since her transition from the pound to a home was a difficult one and since she has a number of special medical needs, she is looking for a Sanctuary-sponsored Forever Foster home.
Update: Shadow has found her ideal foster home where she is the only dog and enjoys being the center of attention in a loving family.
You can help us meet Shadow's basic care and special dietary needs by sponsoring her or by making a one-time donation for her care.
Photos courtesy of Portraits by Martha.
![]() ![]() ![]() Pollyanna, an 8-year-old wirehaired Dachshund mix, came to the Sanctuary in August 2017 from Cleveland Animal Care & Control. She was very frightened and shut down in the kennel, but once she entered her foster home, her true personality came shining through. Within five minutes of arriving, she had jumped the baby gate intended to allow her to meet the other dogs in the foster home gradually and introduced herself to the resident dogs, tail wagging a mile a minute. The second day in her foster home, she had become fast friends with Pebbles, a little Shih Tzu mix adopted from the Sanctuary. They are rarely apart and can most often be seen playing, napping, and rolling around happily in the grass.
Pollyanna is currently being trained to take her place among the Sanctuary's therapy dogs. Her outgoing and friendly ways make her a natural. She has entered training and has passed the first two therapy dog tests. The final test will be in early June. She is doing so well that we are sure she will succeed and bring joy to countless people.
Update: Pollyanna has passed her therapy dog tests, received her certification, and begun to visit a local nursing home where she is quickly becoming a favorite. After all, who can resist a scruffy little dog in a stroller?
You can help us meet Pollyanna's basic needs, including her veterinary care and her therapy dog training costs by sponsoring her or by making a one-time donation for her care.
The photo of Pollyanna on the left courtesy of Portraits by Martha.
![]() ![]() Roxy, a 7-year-old Coonhound mix, came to the Sanctuary from the Portage County APL after coming to them from a rural county prison program. She has such perfect manners and is so friendly to everyone she meets that she has become one of our Sanctuary-sponsored therapy dogs, bringing her own special brand of happiness to everyone she meets.
You can help us meet Roxy's medical costs and her therapy dog training costs by sponsoring her or by making a one-time donation for her care.
The photo of Roxy courtesy of Portraits by Martha.
![]() ![]() ![]() Polie (left) and Twisty (right), 13-year-old Pomeranian siblings, came to the Sanctuary with Boopsie (Forever Foster) and Sydney (adopted), when they were confiscated from the home of a woman who could no longer care for them. They had been living in deplorable conditions without veterinary care for many years. Each has some health issues that have been addressed, primarily urinary tract infections and bad teeth. They have been spayed, had dentals, and are ready for their very own home. They have some lingering house training issues because of their past, so they will require patience and a consistent routine to help them complete their house training.
Polie and Twisty were placed in separate foster homes on arrival, but Polie developed severe anxiety without her sister. Polie's anxiety resolved when she was moved to the same foster home as Twisty. As a result of their strong bond, they will need to be adopted together.
Because of their special needs and their anxiety, we believe that moving to a new home would not be good for them, so Polie and Twisty will remain in their Sanctuary foster homes for life.
You can help us meet Polie and Twisty's ongoing medical costs by sponsoring them or by making a one-time donation for their care.
UPDATE:
![]() ![]() ![]() Bernard, 11-year-old Pomeranian, was rescued from a hoarder/cruelty case by the Portage Animal Protective League. He came to the Sanctuary in February along with Ivy (see below for details on Ivy), who is the Sanctuary's newest therapy dog. Bernie, however, is very shy and withdrawn. He is working with a trainer to determine when (or if) he will be placed for adoption. Bernie seems to be much more traumatized by his experiences before he came to us. We will post updates on Bernie as they become available.
You can help us meet the cost of Bernard's ongoing care by sponsoring him or by making a one-time donation.
Photo courtesy of Portraits by Martha.
![]() Your monthly sponsorship helps us care for those senior dogs who cannot be adopted because of medical or emotional conditions. We provide foster homes, medical care, food, and lots of love with the help of sponsors like you. Thank you for considering a senior dog. Our permanent Sanctuary dogs send out a four-paw thank you as well.
$5 a month provides heartworm protection for your dog
![]() $10 a month contributes to feeding your dog
$15 a month contributes to the medical care for your dog
$20 a month contributes to the total care of your dog
$25 a month contributes to the total care of your dog.
$50 a month contributes to the total care of your dog.
If you are interested in other sponsorship amounts, please contact the Sanctuary.
Recent Sanctuary Losses: Rest In Peace
![]() Josie has successfully completed her therapy dog training and testing and will begin visits as soon as COVID-19 permits. Congratulations, Josie.
![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() In mid October, Clementine's health declined severely, and she could no longer walk or even get comfortable lying down. She crossed the bridge in the arms of her loving foster caregivers and is now at peace. Go gently, Clementine.
Photo of Clementine on the right courtesy of Portraits by Martha.
![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() Melvin has recently been diagnosed with degenerative spinal myelopathy and has increasing difficulty walking, so he will stay in his foster home where he is well cared for and loved for life.
Melvin crossed the Rainbow Bridge after more than two years with the Sanctuary when he cold no longer walk or stand on his own. Go gently, Melvin. Your foster family and the entire Sanctuary family miss your comical and loving ways.
Photo of Melvin on the right courtesy of Portraits by Martha
![]() ![]() ![]() Ivy is a Sanctuary-sponsored therapy dog, and you can sponsor Ivy's needs or make a donation to the Georgia Memorial Fund, a fund benefiting our therapy program in memory of our very first therapy dog Georgia.
After battling heart disease for quite some time, Ivy crossed the Rainbow Bridge in the arms of her loving family in April 2020. Such a big presence in a small body. Ivy is sorely missed by everyone who knew her. Go gently, Ivy. Your excellent work here is done.
![]() ![]() ![]() Sadly, Moby's health deteriorated quickly, but in the short time he was with us, he knew nothing but unconditional love. He crossed the Bridge in February of 2021 leaving his foster family to mourn his passing.
Picture of Moby courtesy of Portraits by Martha
![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() Alvin has developed kidney disease and has been in his foster home for over three years now, so he will remain there for life where he is loved and well-cared for.
Alvin crossed the Bridge in March of 2021 when his body failed him and his quality of life was gone. Rest easy, Alvin. You were well-loved in your foster home.
Photo on the right courtesy of Portraits by Martha
![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() Townshend had shown no tendency to bite before this incident nor has he shown any undesirable behavior since. However, out of an abundance of caution, we placed him in one of our Forever Foster homes where he enjoys life as a cherished family member, safe for life. The foster family went very slowly with Townshend, first gaining his trust and minimizing visitors and strangers coming into the home. We are happy to report that Townshend has been a model citizen in the months since then.
Townshend's story should remind us all of the caution we must use when encountering dogs we do not know. It is especially dangerous to kiss or hug a dog on first meeting even though we may do that to our own dogs.
After enjoying the comforts and love in his Forever Foster home, Townshend crossed the Rainbow Bridge in November 2020 from gastric torsion. Even though he was immediately rushed to an area emergency clinic, sadly he did not make it. Rest easy, Townshend. Your Sanctuary family understood you and loved you unconditionally.
![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() Because of his age and all that Hercules has been through, he has joined our Forever Foster program and will remain in his current foster home for life where he is becoming a happy and quite spoiled old dog.
In September 2020, Hercules crossed the Rainbow Bridge when his body could not longer support him. He is missed by his foster family and everyone lucky enough to have met him.
Photo of Hercules on the right courtesy of Portraits by Martha
![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() Sadly, Sandy was diagnosed with an abdominal mass and crossed the Rainbow Bridge on October 5, 2020. While she wasn't with us nearly long enough, we are glad that she knew love in her last weeks. Go gently, Sandy. we wanted so much more for you.
![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() *Kenny is being evaluated as a Sanctuary therapy dog and has begun his training, so he is not available for adoption currently.
Sad Update: Kenny crossed the Rainbow Bridge suddenly and unexpectedly when a vet visit revealed a large abdominal tumor that our vet believed was causing him a great deal of pain. He had such promise as a therapy dog and was a loving member of his foster family. Gone far too soon, go gently, Kenny, on the rest of your journey. You have left many friends behind.
Photo of Kenny on the left courtesy of Portraits by Martha.
![]() ![]() ![]() Sadly, Astra's condition continued to deteriorate until she could no longer walk and would no longer eat. Astra crossed the Bridge with her foster caregiver by her side. We are grateful that her last two months were as good as they could be. Go gently, Astra.
Photo of Astra courtesy of Robyn White Photography.
![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() Since Simon has not been adopted, despite much adoption interest, we have decided to revisit training him as a therapy dog, especially after seeing his wonderful interactions with countless people at VegFest in May. We are trying a new medication to help with his car sickness, and we are hopeful that Simon will represent us as one of our newest therapy dogs. He certainly has the personality for therapy work.
Simon faithfully served the Sanctuary as a therapy dog until COVID-19 stopped all visits. Sadly, during that time, Simon was diagnosed with a brain tumor that became progressively debilitating, and he crossed the Rainbow Bridge in the arms of his loving foster caregivers on June 6, 2020. Go gently, Simon. You've left behind many, many friends who miss you.
Photo on the left courtesy of Portraits by Martha
![]() ![]() ![]() UPDATE: Norman experienced sudden and untreatable heart issues and crossed the Rainbow bridge surrounded by his loving foster family in June 2020. Our hearts are broken, but we are glad that he spent his last months knowing love.
![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() Eliza Jane had multiple medical conditions that did not respond to aggressive treatment. She crossed the Rainbow Bridge in the arms of her caregiver. Go gently, Eliza Jane.
![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() Sadly Lil Baby became very ill and crossed the Rainbow Bridge early Monday morning June 17, 2019, in his foster caregiver's arms. He was only with us a short while, but he left a large empty spot in his foster's home. Rest well, Lil Baby. Your pain and suffering are at an end. Go gently on the rest of your journey.
![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() Rubin has sadly been diagnosed with a fairly aggressive form of cancer, so he will stay in his foster home receiving excellent care and lots of love while his quality of life is good.
Rubin crossed the Rainbow Bridge on May 4, 2019, after his breathing became very labored and he could not rally. He is missed by his foster family and by everyone in the Sanctuary family. We are grateful that his fosters cared for him right up until the end. Go gently, little Rubin. Until we meet again.
![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() Update: JinJur has been with her Sanctuary foster family for well over two years now. She is a difficult placement because she needs to be an only dog in an adult home and because she has serious allergies that respond only to a very expensive medication. It would be unfair to ask her to adjust to a new home at her age and after the length of time she has spent in her foster home, so she will stay for life as part of our Forever Foster program.
Jinjur crossed the Rainbow Bridge in March 2019 shortly after being diagnosed with advanced cancer. Rest gently, JinJur. Your Sanctuary family misses you.
Photo on the right courtesy of Portraits by Martha
![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() Sebastian crossed the Rainbow Bridge quite suddenly when he developed labored breathing and our vets discovered large tumors throughout his body. Godspeed, Sebastian. You weren't with us long, but you stole our heats.
Photos of Sebastian courtesy of Portraits by Martha.
![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() Update: Vecchio was adopted by a couple who loved him dearly, but unfortunately their resident dog did not share their love for Vecchio and he returned to the Sanctuary where he awaits that perfect home.
Update: Vecchio recently came through double hernia surgery and is again available for adoption. If you are looking for a sweet, cuddly little dog, Vecchio is your guy!
Update: Vecchio's health has declined, and our vet suspects a brain tumor, so he will stay in his foster home and receive the best palliative care possible for life.
Vecchio's health declined rapidly in January of 2019, so he crossed the Rainbow Bridge to be free of his suffering. Fly high, Vecchio.
![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() Update: Tidbit is a sweetheart of a dog unless you are administering his eye medication, which he needs twice a day. Because of his special needs and his low vision and hearing, Tidbit will remain in his foster home for life. He had the tumor on his eye removed successfully, and he receives excellent medical care and lots of love.
Update: Tidbit's health declined rapidly in December 2018, and he crossed the Rainbow Bridge in the arms of his Forever Foster caregiver surrounded by love. We miss Tidbit. he was a big presence in a small body.
![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() Update: After two foster homes that were not a good fit for Libby's needs, she has settled into a home where she is the only pet and loves the attention and stress-free life she now lives. She is being evaluated for participation in our therapy dog program. If she is successful, she will not be available for adoption but will join our other therapy dogs in their work spreading joy across the region.
Update: Libby was not a good candidate for therapy work because of some pain issues associated with her history of torn ACLs. For this reason and because of the difficulty she had finding the right foster home, we have decided that she would be happiest as part of our Forever Foster program where she will be safe and secure for life. She is now 11-12 years old and has been with us for over two years now. She is a perfect fit in her home.
Update: Libby has been diagnosed with probably liver cancer. Despite the dire prognosis, she is doing well, eating, enjoying her life, and remaining pain-free.
Update: Libby crossed the Rainbow Bridge in November 2018, choosing to stay with us for much longer than the initial prognosis. She is missed by her faster family and by the entire Sanctuary family. Go gently, Libby.
Photos courtesy of Portraits by Martha
![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() Update: Bram is now approximately 19 years old, and his foster caregiver needed to move out of state to live with her son when her health failed. She did not feel that she could properly care for Bram, so he moved to another of our Forever Foster homes where he has settled in and made friends with his caregivers, with the other dogs in the home, and even with the cat.
Update: Bram's body failed him in late December 2018 and he crossed the Rainbow Bridge with his foster family surrounding him with love. We miss you, Bram. Godspeed on the rest of your journey.
![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() Update: JJ has passed her therapy dog test and is now our therapy dog working with a children's reading program. Congratulations, JJ and Jolene. And thank you to Gold Star Dog Training in Medina, Ohio, specializing in handicapped pets, who worked closely with JJ. Thanks also to Linda Farace of Crazy Dog Studio for the excellent shots of JJ and Jolene. She will remain with the Sanctuary and share her irrepressible joy with others. Your support helps with the cost of JJ's veterinary care.
Update: J.J. is experiencing some back pain, so our vet recommended that she retire from active therapy work. She will remain a loved member of our Sanctuary family for life, staying in the home she has shared throughout her years. Thank you, J.J. and Jolene, for the fine work you have done representing senior therapy dogs over the years.
J.J. crossed the Rainbow Bridge early in July of 2018 after struggling with an inner ear problem that could not be resolved. We miss J.J.'s crazy ways and winsome personality. But her memory lives on in the lives of the many people she touched in her years as a therapy dog. You can make a donation in J.J.'s memory to the Georgia Memorial Fund, benefiting our therapy program named after our very first therapy dog Georgia.
Photos of J.J. by Crazy Dog Studio
![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() Update: DeeDee met her person last week and has gone on a foster-to-adopt. The adoption will be finalized as soon as her necessary medical treatment is finished. Congratulations, DeeDee. From a dumpster to a home in just over a month!
Update: Since DeeDee's kidney disease requires ongoing treatment and monitoring, she will become a Forever Foster in her foster-to-adopt home. The Sanctuary will oversee her medical care and pay all of the costs associated with keeping DeeDee healthy and happy for as long as possible.
DeeDee crossed the Bridge in May 2018 with her loving foster caregiver by her side when her kidney disease could not longer be controlled and her quality of life was gone. Go gently, DeeDee. We are so glad that you came to us and knew love and excellent care. Your foster caregiver misses you greatly as we all do. Go gently, DeeDee on the rest of your journey.
Photo on the right courtesy of Portraits by Martha.
![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() Mollie Sue crossed the Bridge in May 2018 when she became weak and her legs would no longer support her. She enjoyed a year in her loving Forever Foster home, possibly the best year of her life. Rest in Peace, Mollie Sue.
The photo of Molly Sue on the left courtesy of Portraits by Martha.
![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() Ava was diagnosed with pyometra. Because her health was so delicate, our vet did not believe she was a good candidate for surgery, so she had not yet been spayed. Kidney disease, mammary tumors, and then pyometra proved to be too much for sweet Ava, and she crossed the bridge in the arms of her Forever Foster, surrounded by unconditional love.
Godspeed, Ava. We wish you could have had longer to enjoy the love in your new life.
Photo on the right courtesy of Portraits by Martha
![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() Russell has developed some serious health issues, so he has entered our hospice program where he will receive the best palliative care possible for as long as possible. Please keep him in your thoughts.
In March of 2018, Russell's condition deteriorated rapidly, and when there was nothing else to be done to relieve his pain, he crossed the Bridge surrounded by the love of his foster family that had cared so lovingly for him. Go gently, Russell. We miss your sweet and gentle ways.
![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() Agnes has developed kidney disease, so we feel it in her best interests to remain in her foster home for life.
Agnes, fondly known as Ed by her friends, developed what was believed to be a tumor in her inner ear. When there was no relief for her symptoms, she was helped across the Bridge in the arms of her foster caregivers. She has left a huge hole in their hearts. Godspeed, Ed.
The photo on the left courtesy of Portraits by Martha.
![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() Scooter Jack enjoyed more than a year in the best foster home he could have hoped for. In March of 2018, his health failed him entirely, and he was helped to the Bridge by his foster caregiver and the loving staff at Tremont Animal Clinic. Rest in Peace, Scooter Jack. We miss you and will never forget you.
The photo of Scooter Jack on the right courtesy of Portraits by Martha.
![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() Theo is now available for adoption and looking for that special home in NE Ohio to call his own. He would do best in an adult home as an only dog or perhaps with one cat. For more information on making Theo a part of your family, please contact the Sanctuary.
Update: Theo celebrated his second anniversary with the Sanctuary in October, so he will join our Forever Foster program. Theo has come a long way from the physically sick, emotionally damaged dog he was two years ago, as his before and after pictures show. But we do not believe it would be fair to him, after the progress he has made, to ask him to start over in a new home with a new family, so he will stay with his Sanctuary foster family for life.
Theo's health declined over time, and he crossed the Rainbow Bridge in February of 2018 in the arms of his foster caregiver after spending nearly five years in his Sanctuary Forever Foster home. Godspeed, Theo. we miss you here.
Photo of Theo on the right courtesy of Portraits by Martha.
![]() ![]() ![]() Sadly, Morgan's health failed and she slipped cross the Bridge after just a few short months in her Forever Foster home. She left us surrounded by love and care. Rest easy, Morgan.
![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() Boopsie was diagnosed with chronic pancreatitis and cancer. But just a few short weeks later, she also developed congestive heart failure, which could not be adequately controlled with medication. Godspeed, Boopsie, one of the sweetest dogs ever.
The photo on the right courtesy of Portraits by Martha.
![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() Update: Jeb has been with the Sanctuary for over a year now, far outliving the several week prognosis he had been given proving that good care and lots of love are the best things in life!
Jeb's health finally failed him completely recently and his loving foster caregiver helped him cross the Rainbow Bridge. Jeb knew that he was loved until the end. Godspeed, Jeb.
![]() ![]() ![]() Kiki developed kidney disease, which was controlled with a special diet and medication, but her health failed her completely in August 2017 and she crossed the bridge in the arms of her foster caregiver. Go with love, Kiki.
Photo of Kiki courtesy of Portraits by Martha
![]() ![]() ![]() Lady Pepper crossed the Bridge at nearly 20 years old after over half a lifetime of love with the Sanctuary's fosters and adopters. She lived a good life and left us all with many good memories. RIP, Lady Pepper.
![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() Update: Roy continues to struggle with health issues and some anxiety, but our vet is trying to stabilize him with medication changes. The good news is that his spirits are much improved. We hope that means that Roy is on the road to recovery.
Update: Sadly, Roy's health issues continued to worsen until his quality of life declined substantially. According to our vet, the tumor on his spleen was inoperable and had brown to a dangerous size. For six months, Roy knew the unconditional love of his foster caregivers. Here is what John had to say about Roy's last days: "Roy the senior foster dog stepped on a rainbow this week. He had been losing stamina (and continence), and apparently his spleen tumor had gotten pretty big. His last two meals were pure pot roast, his favorite." He was loved until the very end when he left us on April 19, 2017. Thank you John & Jane for showing him what it meant to be a cherished family member. Rest in Peace, Roy. We wish we had know you sooner.
Holiday photo on the right courtesy of Portraits by Martha.
![]() ![]() ![]() Sadly, poor Bugsy had multiple health problems in addition to heartworm disease, including pneumonia and a collapsed trachea. He was unable to breathe without oxygen, so he crossed the Rainbow Bridge when his quality of life was not acceptable and could not be improved. He wasn't with us long, but he knew that he was loved. Rest in Peace, Bugsy. We had hoped for so much more for you.
![]() ![]() ![]() After being with us a short while, Angelo deteriorated rapidly in his foster home, becoming unpredictable and demonstrating bouts of sudden rage that became increasingly dangerous, most likely due to a brain tumor. Angelo crossed the Rainbow Bridge in March when his quality of life was no longer acceptable. RIP, Angelo. We wish we could have found you sooner.
![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() Update: Tony T. enjoyed the comforts of his foster home for two and a half years. His health gradually declined until he could not longer walk or have the quality of life he deserved. He left us in January 2017 surrounded by people who loved him. Godspeed, little Tiger.
Photo on the left courtesy of Portraits by Martha
![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() Update: Whisper has become part of our Forever Foster family because of her emotional fragility and her several health issues. You can help us meet Whisper's medical costs by sponsoring him or by making a one time donation for his care.
Update: Whisper crossed the Rainbow Bridge in late 2016 after being diagnosed with an aggressive bladder cancer. You were very special to us all, Whisper, but especially to your foster family who love you unconditionally.
Photos courtesy of Portraits by Martha.
![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() Update: Mason recently became completely blind and was diagnosed with Congestive Heart Failure. He has now become part of our hospice Forever Foster program where he will receive love and palliative care for the rest of his life. He successfully came through a surgery for a tumor on his leg that was growing and interfering with his mobility.
Update: Mason's health deteriorated quickly at the end of 2016 as his heart simply gave out. He was released from his suffering by the people he loved most in the world. RIP, little mason. we miss you.
![]() ![]() ![]() Update: Peachie continues to be frightened when anyone, even people she likes, try to pick her up. She has been evaluated by a veterinary behaviorist who believes that she is very stressed and needs some gentle work. Peachie was also recently diagnosed with Congestive Heart Failure, so she has entered our Forever Foster program, staying in her foster home where she will receive the best care and lots of love for the rest of her life.
Update: Peachie Keen's heart condition continued to worse despite our best efforts to keep her comfortable. Her foster caregivers together with our veterinarian made the difficult decision to release her from her discomfort. She knew she was loved, and that is the most important gift we can give an old dog. Go gently, little PK, as she was know to her friends.
![]() ![]() ![]() Update: Howard the hound became very ill soon after coming to the Sanctuary. After several vet visits, including two nights at the ER, we held Howard as he crossed the Bridge and left his pain and suffering behind. Godspeed, Howie. Everyone who met you loved you, and we are grateful that you spent your last days with us.
![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() Update: Little Quincy affectionately known as Mr. Q crossed the Rainbow Bridge in October 2016 when his health failed him completely and his quality of life deteriorated. Quincy was a part of his Forever Foster family for two years, much longer then we thought he would be with us when he first came in. We miss you, Quincy. Godspeed on the rest of your journey.
![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() Update: Amelia is in a foster-to-adopt home where she has settled in nicely and shares her home with another senior dog. Her adoption will be finalized as soon as our vet determines that she is healthy enough to receive her rabies vaccine.
Update: Amelia has been diagnosed with kidney insufficiency and chronic UTIs; she will remain her Forever Foster home as a Sanctuary dog rather than being adopted so that we can monitor her health.
Update: Amelia developed congestive heart failure and crossed the Bridge quite suddenly on September 19, 2016. She is missed by her foster family and the entire Sanctuary family.
Photos courtesy of Portraits by Martha.
![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() Update: FayFay has begun training in order to be evaluated to serve the Sanctuary as a therapy dog. We will update frequently on her progress.
Update: FayFay has just completed her first training class at Fortunate Fido, and she did well. She is eager to learn and very treat motivated. We have every reason to believe that she will succeed along with Delilah in becoming the Sanctuary's next therapy dog. Thanks to Portraits by Martha for the stunning portrait of FayFay
Update: FayFay earned her Canine Good Citizen certificate and passed the Bright & Beautiful Therapy Dog test in November 2013. She is now an official therapy dog and visits nursing homes, group homes, college libraries during finals week, and an adult activities center. FayFay is one hard-working old gal.
Update: Our sweet FayFay crossed the Rainbow Bridge on June 21, 2016, when her health failed completely. She left us doing her very favorite things: eating treats and basking in love. FayFay enjoyed life every minute and left behind so many people who miss her exuberance. Rest in Peace, FayFay. Yours was truly a life well lived.
You can make a donation in FayFay's memory to the Georgia Memorial Fund, a fund benefiting our therapy program in started in memory of our very first therapy dog Georgia.
Photo on the right courtesy of Portraits by Martha.
![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() Update: Gizmo's health has deteriorated since he came to us, so he has joined our Forever Foster program where he will receive excellent medical care and lots of love. You can help us meet Gizmo's medical costs by sponsoring him or by making a one time donation for him.
Update: Gizmo crossed the Rainbow bridge this summer when his quality of life became unacceptable. Gizmo had been with us for quite some time and struggled with back issues, Cushings disease, and general poor health. He is greatly missed by his foster family and everyone who knew him.
![]() ![]() ![]() Update: Little Chipper crossed the Rainbow Bridge shortly after his one-year anniversary with the Sanctuary when his kidney disease could no longer be controlled. He is greatly missed by his foster family and the entire Sanctuary family. We are privileged to have cared for him far beyond his life expectancy.
Photo courtesy of Portraits by Martha.
![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() He is one of the friendliest, laziest, most loveable dogs we've had the pleasure of knowing. If you are interested in learning more about Artie, please contact the Sanctuary.
Update: Artie has developed spinal myelopathy which limits his movements; in addition, his arthritis has worsened, so he will stay in his Forever Foster home where he is loved by the humans and canines alike. You can help us meet Artie's medical costs by sponsoring him or by making a one time donation for him.
Update: Artie crossed the Rainbow Bridge in November 2015 when it became impossible for him to walk or even get up at all. A big old sweetheart of a dog, Artie is sadly missed by everyone who knew him, but especially by his foster caregivers Sharon and Dana. Rest in Peace, Arthur.
Photo on the left courtesy of Portraits by Martha.
![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() Update: Lindy has become part of our Forever Foster program where she will stay in her loving foster home and receive excellent medical care and all the love she could ever ask for. She shares her home with two other senior dogs and two people who are devoted to her. Thanks to Portraits by Martha for the lovely head shot of Lindy.
Update: Lindy's health continued to deteriorate, and she crossed the Rainbow Bridge in January of 2016 in the arms of her foster caregiver. She was with us for over three years, much, much longer than we could have hoped. And she loved every minute of her time with us. Godspeed, Lindy.
Photo on the left courtesy of Portraits by Martha
Sanctuary dogs past and present enjoy the good life in their foster homes
thanks to our sponsors and supporters!
![]() ![]() Left: Gucci with his friends Riley and Arwin (adopted from the Sanctuary) and Bocci.
Right: Meghan, Georgia, and Henry take time out for a nap.
![]() ![]() Left: Angel, Guido, Meghan, and Rose line up for scratches and kisses.
Right: Brady plays couch potato under the watchful eye of young Toby Reis, Poodle/Terrier mix, one of Missy's puppies (Missy the Poodle came to the Sanctuary in 2003 from West Virginia as an 11 y/o Poodle in need, but she was, we discovered after she arrived, a mere 4 years old and VERY pregnant).
Copyright 2001-2023
No part of this web site, including photographs, may be reproduced without written permission
|