When it comes to adopting a dog, most people often adopt healthy and young dogs instead of disabled and elderly dogs. They do that because taking care of these dogs is difficult and expensive. But thankfully, there are many good people out there who are willing to do everything to help these poor dogs, no matter what happens.
Meet Chris and Mariesa Hughes, a couple who live in Clifton Park, NY. They are parents to 20 dogs who are old and have many health problems.
The couple runs a non-profit organization called The Mr. Moment Venture. They recognized the need for such an organization after their elderly dog, Mo, passed away, leaving big vet bills behind. They understand that when dog owners don’t have money to pay for these bills, they will abandon and surrender their dogs to animal shelters. This realization prompted the opening of their own organization to make sure that senior pups all around the country get proper care.
“Senior dogs deserve the best for the rest of their lives. We believe that senior dogs deserve homes too!” The Mr. Mo Project writes on its site.
Chris and Mariesa have already rescued hundreds of dogs from euthanasia, as well as helped them receive treatment and find forever homes. However, the most special care goes to the 20 dogs that are currently living in their home. To make sure they are happy and healthy, the pair has already spent over $55,000 to customize their house. They want to turn their house into a haven for these dogs.
The couple has bought a $30,000 hydrotherapy pool so that the dogs can benefit from some low-impact exercise. In addition to that, they got a custom $5,000 king-sized bed so they could sleep with their pups. Their home is dog-friendly, with ramps, floor mats, plastic sheets, and more.
Is it difficult to care for 20 elderly and special needs dogs living under one roof, but they manage it well. “It is crazy living with 20 dogs, but we make it work as we have a great routine,” Chris said. The couple spends 45 minutes each morning feeding the bunch and giving them medication.
The biggest struggle comes with the vet bills. “We try and raise as much money as we can, but ultimately, if one dog needs $20,000 worth of treatment, we will pay for it on credit cards and worry about it later. There’s always a vet bill to pay, but we have learned to get on with it and although it’s stressful, it’s all worth it,” Chris said.
What a beautiful family and an incredible reminder that senior and disabled dogs deserve as much love as every other dog.
If you want to help them continue their good work, please visit their website for more information.
H/T: Boredpanda / Image Credits: mrmoproject
