In March 2022, Grandpa, a Great Dane who was a guard dog at a Gaushala, was rescued with a serious paw wound. Despite his size and age, Grandpa, now known as Louis, found a second chance at happiness with Keerthana Roy. Keerthana and her sister believe that dogs should not be overlooked for adoption just because of their age or health conditions. They also adopted another dog, Yuka, who is blind and has epilepsy. These heartwarming stories are shining examples of senior dogs finding loving homes despite their challenges and health issues.
The trend of pet adoption is greatly influenced by social media. Unfortunately, senior dogs have a much slimmer chance of getting adopted, especially when they have lifelong health conditions. However, thanks to a few kind-hearted individuals, some of these dogs have found their happy retirement years in good care. One such example is Meatball, an English Mastiff who spent years with a breeder before being rescued. Although Meatball now has a heart condition and mild spondylitis, she found a home with a couple in Vadodara.
Experts point out that while more and more people are interested in bringing home dogs, the inclination to adopt senior dogs is much lower because they are often seen as a liability. The Bowsome Senior Dogs India Foundation (BSDIF) aims to change this perception and encourages people to consider adopting older dogs. BSDIF rescues dogs in deplorable conditions, often with maggot wounds, and provides them with the necessary medical care and love. These once-neglected dogs prove that they can be just as loving and playful as their younger counterparts.
BSDIF has successfully facilitated the adoption of dogs as old as eight and 14 years. For instance, Meemaw, a pregnant 14-year-old Dalmatian, was rescued after being tied outside an ice cream parlor. Despite her age, Meemaw found a loving home where she can enjoy her golden years. Another heartwarming story is Coco, an 8-year-old beagle who was facing euthanasia due to a chronic skin condition. Coco now lives a comfortable life with a caring owner who manages his health condition with medication.
Adopting a senior dog comes with its challenges, including understanding their medical history and providing appropriate care. However, the rewards are immeasurable. Senior dogs are just as loving and loyal as younger ones, and they bring immense joy and companionship to their new families. Through their stories, these dogs show us that no one should be defined by their age or health, and they deserve a chance at a happy and fulfilling life.
