Austin Pets Alive! is thrilled to be one of 66 animal welfare groups in 30 states (chosen from more than 300 applicants) to receive a 2018 grant from the national nonprofit The Grey Muzzle Organization to help senior dogs. The Grey Muzzle grant supports our Senior Pets Fund and will help APA!’s medical clinic provide senior dogs with needed dental care, improving both their quality of life and adoption prospects.
APA! now rescues, treats and adopts out around 500 senior pets yearly. Even though older dogs are some of the most loving and loyal pets, their advanced age and potentially higher medical costs can make it harder for them to find forever homes. Like Grey Muzzle, we believe seniors deserve the same chance as younger dogs to live out their lives surrounded by love. Fortunately, APA!’s clinic is equipped to treat all manner of illnesses, including dental disease, one of the most common issues among APA!’s senior dogs.
Dental disease can cause dogs to experience discomfort, and their teeth may become worn or broken. A dog with dental disease may lose weight because it hurts to eat. If left untreated, dental disease can lead to more serious medical issues, such as an increased risk of heart disease. Plus, dogs in pain may react to people and other animals by growling or snapping, leading to longer shelter stays. But thanks to this grant from Grey Muzzle, senior dogs at APA! can start smiling!
The funds will directly benefit dogs like Sophie, a 10-year-old that recently underwent dental surgery in APA!’s clinic. By providing senior dogs with dental surgery, we not only help them feel their best, but also remove the need for costly treatment that may deter people from welcoming a senior into their home.
Over the past decade, The Grey Muzzle Organization has provided nearly $1.5 million in grants to support its vision of “a world where no old dog dies alone and afraid.”
“Thanks to the generosity of our donors, we’re delighted to help deserving organizations like APA! make a difference in the lives of dogs and people in their communities,” Grey Muzzle’s Executive Director Lisa Lunghofer said. “Many senior dogs in Central Texas are enjoying their golden years in loving homes thanks to the wonderful work of Austin Pets Alive!.”