Page 15 - Southern Exposure - November '24

Southern Exposure, Page 15

pet Matters

The Pet Cottage Post

Senior Maltese Mix Needs
Rehabilitation
At The Pet Cottage, we
often welcome pets in need
of rehabilitation due to their
owners’ declining health, both
physical and mental. As a
person’s health deteriorates –
whether from aging or illness – the
care they provide to their beloved pets often suffers. We
frequently encounter animals that have not been groomed
for a long time, arriving matted and dirty. Others come
to us underweight because their owners have forgotten to
feed them, while some are significantly overweight due Sophie Sophie in the car
to overfeeding during periods of neglect. Fleas and other
parasites are not uncommon as well. Recently, The Pet Cottage welcomed Sophie, a 10-year- recover, ensuring she receives the love and care she
In our society, it’s common for families to live far apart, old Maltipoo, in terrible shape. Her owner had suffered a deserves.
especially in South Florida, where many seniors retire and stroke, was hospitalized, and never returned home. Family By matching pets with caring Forever Guardians and
leave their extended families behind. Family members members, overwhelmed with grief, struggled to manage covering all their medical expenses, The Pet Cottage
often visit during the holidays, only to be heartbroken her affairs. For three months, Sophie was left alone in the ensures these cherished animals can enjoy their golden
by the changes in their parents or grandparents. home, receiving only brief visits for feeding and walking. years in loving homes. This essential service comes at a
Difficult decisions are When a niece flew in to check on things, she was shocked to great cost, as we currently care for 56 pets, 47 of whom are
sometimes made during discover Sophie still living there. The little dog was terrified seniors. Your generous donation can make a meaningful
these visits, including of people, severely matted, in clear pain, and had become difference in the lives of Sophie and many other deserving
moving loved ones aggressive. Her owner had been unable to care for her for animals.
into assisted living or some time before being hospitalized, leaving Sophie in a To become an active part of our work for all pets please
memory care facilities. dire situation. consider donating today!
Unfortunately, this The Pet Cottage is fortunate to have dedicated volunteers Your heart will grow a whole size bigger, and our tails
often means they can like Michelle and Matt, who possess a special talent for will wag even more.
no longer care for their caring for these hurting souls. They open their hearts and The Pet Cottage
pets. Similarly, when a home to pups like Sophie, providing the extra TLC and time Wendy Derhak Founder/Executive Director
relative passes away, needed before these animals can be placed with a Forever 17049 Thunder Road
pets may be left in the Guardian. It takes patience, perseverance, and an abundance Jupiter, FL 33478
care of family members of love to build trust with a senior pet that has experienced Please visit https://www.thepetcottage.org or call
who are now faced neglect. (561) 818-5025 for more information.
with making urgent Now, with the support of our Lifelong Guardianship Visitors are welcome by appointment.
decisions. Michelle Perunko and Sophie Program, we are committed to helping Sophie heal and