There’s a question that every dog owner dreads to ponder: what would occur to my dog if I were to pass away?
As a dog owner, I can’t stand the idea of my dog being abandoned without my presence or finding their way into a shelter. I would prefer someone who values me to care for my dog if I were to unexpectedly die.
As mentioned, it’s not a topic we relish considering. It saddens us to think that our dogs might lead a life they don’t merit.
When the guardian of three elderly Chihuahuas unfortunately passed away, he entrusted the dogs to his sister. However, intentions are one thing, and actuality is something else entirely. The scenario didn’t unfold as he hoped, and the three Chihuahuas were perilously close to being euthanized.
Yet, even when all appears bleak, there is always a possibility that a rescuer will emerge.
For these Chihuahuas, their rescuer was Cher Polvinale, the creator of the House with a Heart Senior Pet Sanctuary.
A Case She Couldn’t Decline
Senior Pet Sanctuaries aren’t as plentiful as other animal shelters found on nearly every street corner. They are uncommon because older dogs require specialized care. Managing several dogs with serious health conditions is challenging. And, believe me… senior dogs have a multitude of health problems.
Seventeen years ago, when Polvinale established House With A Heart Senior Pet Sanctuary, she aspired to create positive change. However, she recognized her limitations. The sanctuary remains relatively small today but continues to perform admirably.
Regrettably, Polivinale must decline certain adoption requests, redirecting them to assisting homes of her volunteers and rescue partners. For the trio of senior Chihuahuas— a mother and her two sons— networking became the initial approach as the sanctuary was at full capacity.
“When I was approached about Bella, Hudson, and Ciroc, my immediate thought was to gather all their information to network for them,” reported Polvinale.
The owner of these Chihuahuas sadly passed, and the dogs were given to his sister.
Bella, a 15-year-old mother, was well into her golden years, while her two sons, Hudson and Ciroc, both aged 13, were not far behind. They required additional care and attention, but the woman was unable to manage on her own.
Along with relocating and caring for her ailing spouse, the auntie responsible could not manage three dogs, especially given their health conditions! Moreover, the trio didn’t get along with the other dogs in the woman’s household.
“Bella has an enlarged heart and severe dental disease. Hudson also suffers from a serious heart condition, gallstones, and dental disease. Ciroc is fortunate to have only dental disease and an ear infection.”
An Hour Drive That Rescued Lives
Owning one senior Chihuahua is already quite challenging. Now imagine having three of them, each with health issues needing attention.
Do not fault the woman for her lack of knowledge. If it hadn’t been for her daughter, all three dogs might have found themselves on one of the numerous euthanasia lists. Fortunately, the woman heeded her daughter’s advice and began searching online for senior dog shelters nearby.
The closest one was an hour away.
Upon receiving a call, Polvinale was informed of a horrifying reality: all three dogs were slated for euthanasia that very day at 4:15 PM. She was utterly stunned but recognized the necessary actions.
Polvinale swiftly urged the woman to cancel the euthanasia appointment and bring her dogs for surrender.
Arranging euthanasia was a last resort. The woman willingly accepted Polvinale’s suggestion and drove that same day to surrender the trio. She felt immense relief knowing they would find a sanctuary—a place where they would receive love and care.
Aside from their health conditions, the three Chihuahuas exhibited no significant behavioral issues. They were gentle (as gentle as a Chihuahua can be!) and appeared to acclimatize quite quickly. It took barely a day for the trio to settle in.
“Our motto at House with a Heart is: ‘Love lives here,’ and we promise to care for Bella, Hudson, and Ciroc for as long as we can.”
Life At The Sanctuary
Momma and her two senior sons are currently at the sanctuary enjoying the best of their golden years – a life that every senior dog deserves.
Ciroc is already receiving treatment for his dental condition. Despite having just three remaining teeth, he’s handling it like a trooper.
Moreover, Hudson and mama Bella are faring well, too!
All of them are thoroughly enjoying their time together at HWAH!
As the sanctuary greatly relies on donations, you can contribute to assist Bella, Hudson, and Ciroc. Visit House With A Heart and make a contribution today!
Your support is invaluable to these aging souls. Help them enjoy the most dazzling golden years possible!
We collectively wish for the well-being of Bella, Hudson, and Ciroc, hoping for a long and pleasant life at the sanctuary.