Those of you who own dogs know sure well how life-changing an experience getting a dog can be. We rightfully consider them part of the family and love them unconditionally, just like they love us. These amazing creatures provide plenty of joyous moments in our lives and deserve to be loved. That’s why parting with a beloved pet is as touch as losing a loved one.
Unable to deal with the pain, many owners make the unpopular decision to leave their sick or old pets in animal shelters. Left alone, they either die in misery or are euthanized. They surely don’t deserve it. They loved you back unconditionally and instead of taking care of them when they get old, you decided its best to leave them on their own in a shelter. Why would you do something like that?
Statistics show that every year, nearly 3 million cats and dogs are euthanized in animal shelters across the US. The numbers are dwindling, but it’s still a bad situation. Thankfully, not all people are that cruel. Nicole Hoyte is one of them. A 46-year old animal lover, she recently decided to form a dog hospice where she makes sure abandoned dogs spend their last days with love and care.
Called the Gray Muzzle Canine Hospice Project, Nicole’s official project is running for 2 years now and is a resounding success. With the help of her children, she ensures that the final days of each dog in her hospice are its best. Each of the dogs comes with a different story, although most are just abandoned as their owners can’t deal with the pain of loss. The Gray Muzzle project is kept alive by donations and Nicole’s own savings.
Her calculations say that she spends around £500 on each dog – this covers food, shelter, and medical bills. When they pass away, Nicole either cremates the dogs or buries them in the backyard. She makes sure they get a burial with dignity. If a dog exceeds all expectations, Nicole doesn’t give up on them and keeps them around until their final days.
Each dog gets a birthday party at Nicole’s home, and they also get plenty of walks to the beach for some fish’n’chips and ice cream. It’s the treatment abandoned dogs deserve.
Of course, seeing a dog pass away is quite emotional and heartbreaking – it gets Nicole every time. She says that her children are her biggest emotional support.
Many have praised Nicole’s efforts and you can add us to the list as well. The Gray Muzzle project is a godsend and has already saved hundreds of dogs from living their final days in agony and misery. If you want to donate or learn more about Nicole’s work, just search for The Gray Muzzle Canine Hospice Project online.
Source:healthyfoodhouse.com