Bringing a dog into our home is a decision that requires deep consideration.
From the moment they enter our lives, they become an integral part of our family, deserving of love, care, and commitment, no matter what life throws our way.
It breaks my heart to know that so many senior dogs are abandoned when they need us most—when their age and health require a little extra love and attention.
The betrayal they feel after years of loyalty is devastating.
Princess, a senior Poodle, is a poignant example of this heartache. She knows all too well what it feels like to be abandoned by the people she trusts most.
Left Behind
Princess’s story began with a cruel betrayal.
She was dumped with all her belongings packed in shopping bags in the parking lot of the Animal Western League of Alexandria, a shelter in Virginia.
When the shelter staff found her, they were horrified by what they discovered: a note from her owners requesting that Princess be euthanized and that all her belongings be donated after her passing.
Confused and heartbroken, Princess was taken inside, hoping her family would come back for her. But they never did.
The shelter staff, heartbroken for the sweet dog, took her to the vet, where she was diagnosed with advanced kidney disease and estimated to be around 16 years old.
A New Beginning at Miri’s Haven
Because the shelter lacked the resources to provide the care Princess desperately needed, she was transferred to Miri’s Haven Senior Dog Rescue, a dedicated sanctuary in Virginia.
At Miri’s Haven, the staff went above and beyond to care for Princess.
They showered her with love and comfort, understanding that she needed time to heal from the emotional pain of being abandoned.
Though Princess was dealing with the physical challenges of her age and kidney disease, she was never in pain.
What hurt most was the emotional toll of being left behind by the family she had trusted.
The rescue staff, led by cofounder Georgia Dodson, were determined to give Princess the love she deserved.
Slowly, Princess began to open up, soaking in the affection that had been missing from her life.
“We see her thrive more and more each day…” said Georgia, and it was clear that Princess was beginning to heal, both physically and emotionally.
A Heart Full of Love
Princess’s transformation was nothing short of incredible. With the care of her hospice foster family, who treated her with the love and attention she had always deserved, Princess began to shine again.
As the days passed, the team at Miri’s Haven realized that Princess might not be a hospice case after all.
In fact, she had the potential to find a forever home filled with love.
Her resilience and capacity for love were evident as she began to enjoy life once again, surrounded by those who cared for her.
A Future Filled with Love
Knowing that Princess is now surrounded by love, comfort, and care fills my heart with joy.
I have no doubt that this sweet senior girl will find a family who will cherish her for the rest of her life.
Princess deserves to be adored for the rest of her days, and I’m confident that a loving family will give her just that.