When senior dogs wind up in shelters, it always makes me sad. Older dogs, particularly those with health issues, are frequently overlooked in favor of younger canines. The odds looked stacked against an elderly dog who had to find a new home following the death of his owner, but when she met him, a woman felt it was meant to be.
Mickey, a 13-year-old golden retriever, was left homeless when his owner passed away from a protracted illness. This was the “heartbreaking story” that Golden Retriever Rescue of Southwest Florida posted in November. They made a desperate plea for a senior golden to be placed in foster care or adopted. They wrote, “Mickey is deaf and partially blind, but very sweet.”
Mickey also had infections in his eyes and skin, and the rescue reported that he had a big, benign lump that needed to be removed. Thankfully, a veterinarian advised that he be saved rather than put down despite his elderly age and medical conditions.
Soon, the rescue found a foster for Mickey: a woman named Marianne.
Marianne had lost her two pets, Scout and Sophie, not too long ago. She was in a queue to get a young dog or puppy and wasn’t interested in adopting a senior since she didn’t want to go through the loss again so quickly. However, after hearing Mickey’s tale, she decided to temporarily foster him; she had no intention of permanently adopting him.
Mickey adapted well to his new foster home, according to GRRSWF, who said, “He loved his new mom and home, comfy dog beds and lots of good food.” His eyes and skin recovered, and he charmed his new family by being the cutest, most charming boy. He enjoys hikes, travels to the cottage in Georgia, and expresses thanks every day. Despite not having planned on it, Marianne was so enamored with little Mickey that she decided to adopt him permanently!
In addition to Mickey, she also adopted the puppy she was on the waitlist for. “Mickey has a new sister to teach and keep him young.”
Senior dogs deserve so much love, and we’re so glad Marianne adopted sweet old Mickey!
