An Old Dog's Prayer(Author Unknown)

One by one, they pass by my cage,

Too old, too worn, too broken, no way.

Way past his time, he can't run and play.

Then they shake their heads slowly and go on their way.

A little old man, arthritic and sore,

It seems I am not wanted anymore.

I once had a home, I once had a bed,

A place that was warm, and where I was fed.

Now my muzzle is gray, and my eyes slowly fail.

Who wants a dog so old and so frail?

My family decided I didn't belong,

I got in their way, my attitude was wrong.

Whatever excuse they made in their head,

Can't justify how they left me for dead.

Now I sit in this cage, where day after day,

The younger dogs get adopted away.

When I had almost come to the end of my rope,

You saw my face, and I finally had hope.

You saw thru the gray, and the legs bent with age,

And felt I still had life beyond this cage.

You took me home, gave me food and a bed,

And shared your own pillow with my poor tired head.

We snuggle and play, and you talk to me low,

You love me so dearly, you want me to know.

I may have lived most of my life with another,

But you outshine them with a love so much stronger.

And I promise to return all the love I can give,

To you, my dear person, as long as I live.

I may be with you for a week, or for years,

We will share many smiles, you will no doubt shed tears.

And when the time comes that God deems I must leave,

I know you will cry and your heart, it will grieve.

And when I arrive at the Bridge, all brand new,

My thoughts and my heart will still be with you.

And I will brag to all who will hear,

Of the person who made my last days so dear.

Sweetpea ("Sweetie") is a 12-year old lab mix that was abandoned by her owners along with her sister, Sandy, who passed over the Rainbow Bridge shortly after they arrived at the Ranch.  Without Sandy for company, Sweetie has been our unofficial "mother", taking care of all of the other residents.  She's not your typical senior - she runs, plays and keeps everyone in line!  She is up to date on all shots, deworming and is on heartworm preventative.  Can someone make her golden years wonderful?

Thunder rolls!  This happy-go-lucky boy grew up on a horse farm and is comfortable around all kinds of animals. He's about 8-years old and a big boy, about 90 lbs, already neutered and up to date on everything.  His heartworm test came back positive, but we have already started him on twice/month oral treatments, and when he's tested next year he should be negative.  Thunder is quiet and laid back, wants to be by your side, but loves to chase a ball.  He's housebroken and ready to go!  Look at that tail wagging!

  This handsome "elder statesman" is Ty, a 14-year old Brittany Spaniel who was surrendered to the shelter.  He's a gentle soul, always happy to see people and to get a pet, hug or kiss.  He's happy and gets along with the other dogs - he's living inside with our personal pack (that's our Mocha in back), and is doing great!!  Ty is beginning to show signs of arthritis in his left rear leg, and is currently under treatment for that.  He's current on all shots and deworming and is looking for someone to make his declining years peaceful and stress free!

Nelson ("Sonny") is a loveable 7-year old neutered lab who has never met a stranger.  He is eager to please and, when left on his own, returns to check on his person every few minutes.  He comes when called, knows basic commands, and is just a great dog!  He's up to date on all shots, including rabies and bordatella, and has been dewormed.  His heartworm test came back positive, but we've begun oral treatments which should clear him of the pesky worms by the next time he gets tested!   How can anyone resist that face??

THIS POEM says it all - these senior dogs have SO much to give - they are often overlooked and passed by because they are "past their prime", or not as much fun as the younger dogs.  Here at the Ranch, we value our seniors - we try diligently to place them  in loving homes or with specialized senior rescue groups.  If they don't get placed, they remain with us until they live out their natural lives.

CONSIDER ADOPTING A SENIOR DOG - THEY REALLY DO HAVE A LOT OF LOVE TO GIVE!