Old Dog Haven: 15 years old and Going Strong

This year marks the 15th anniversary of Old Dog Haven and I’d like to give you 15 reasons why we’re still able to serve the needs of western Washington’s unadoptable senior dogs:

1.  Our founders Judith and Lee Piper saw a need, took action and created a haven when there was none. Without their vision and hard work (expanded beyond their wildest dreams) Old Dog Haven wouldn’t exist.

2.  We’ve stayed true to our mission and have never lost focus of what we’re all about and what we need to do:

Our Mission

Old Dog Haven is committed to the belief that all senior dogs should live peacefully in their final years as members of a caring family. To this end we:

• • Provide permanent foster homes for unadoptable, abandoned or soon to be homeless, senior dogs in western Washington, age eight and over. Preference is given to the oldest and most ill.
  • Assist owners, shelters, and rescues in finding homes for their adoptable senior dogs.
  • Educate the public about the value of senior dogs in our lives and the unique gifts they bring us.

We intend to keep Old Dog Haven foster dogs as healthy and comfortable as possible by providing excellent medical care, but without heroic measures intended only to extend life. We are committed to helping these dogs find peace in their final years without judgment of the humans who have left them.
When quality of life is no longer present for any senior dog we believe that euthanasia is the ultimate gift we give them.

3.  Dedicated foster families make it possible for us to care for our dogs with commitment and determination.

4.  Donors, whether they’re sponsoring a dog, donating to the Maranda Fund, or making a general donation, provide the financial assistance needed to care for over 320 dogs. Without their support and belief in our mission we wouldn’t be able to provide the veterinary care needed to help our dogs.

5.  Excellent veterinarians make sure that our dogs receive the best possible care.

6.  Transport volunteers drive long distances to make sure that our dogs arrive safely at their new foster homes.

7.   Weekend Ambassadors – our events team – represent Old Dog Haven at more than 100 events a year, providing information, ODH merchandise, and showing off our dogs for people to meet.

8.  Fundraisers are hosted by individuals, groups, and businesses.

9.  Many volunteers rise to the occasion when a specific task needs to be accomplished, whether it’s mailing out tax letters, helping to set up at the Walk for Old Dogs, or other tasks.

10.  Thank-you note writers send handwritten notes to our donors.

11.  Local TV, radio, and newspapers are always there to help us promote events and to champion our cause.

12.  A multi-talented board of directors (all foster parents) are dedicated to ODH.

13.  Hard-working staff members work long hours for very little pay to help our dogs.

14.  Exposure through Facebook and Instagram helps us reach out to many people.

15.  OUR DOGS GIVE SO MUCH TO ALL OF US AND THEY TEACH US IMPORTANT LESSONS EVERY DAY.

This is truly heart work that we do and we’re grateful every day for the support we receive from so many people. From all of our dogs, paws up to everyone!