Dusty, A Senior Dog Gets A New Leash On Life
When it comes to dog adoption, puppies and smaller breeds tend to be adopted more quickly than older, larger breeds. Senior large-breed dogs tend to have the longest stays at rescues, particularly if they have health or behavioral issues.
In 2023, Dusty, an 11-year-old stray, was found and taken in by a Bolton Animal Control Officer. Dusty became the responsibility of Bolton Animal Control, who contacted Shelter Manager Nikki Baltas upon tracing their newest resident’s microchip to Baypath.
Committed to every animal who enters our care, the Baypath team offers continuous support for animals and their adopters. This support extends beyond the initial adoption period and includes welcoming back adopted pets if adopters are unable to keep them for any reason.
If the shelter walls looked familiar to Dusty, it wasn’t by accident! Back in 2013, he originally arrived as a young puppy from Kentucky. During his initial check-up with our shelter veterinarian, a concerning mass was discovered at the base of his tail. Biopsy results revealed a hemangiosarcoma (vascular tumor), necessitating life-saving surgery. Although the surgery resulted in the loss of Dusty’s tail, it granted him a clean bill of health.
The Goldsmith family welcomed Dusty into their home during his recovery, ensuring limited activity and extra rest while he healed. The Goldsmith’s not only tended to this sweet senior’s medical needs, but provided him with countless stuffed toys – which he enthusiastically destroyed!
Senior pets bring complex histories into their new homes. The Goldsmiths understood the importance of compassionately (and patiently) empathizing with Dusty, likening his transition to that of an elderly person suddenly uprooted to a new environment full of strangers. They explain:
“Senior pets are grateful and will eventually showcase their encyclopedias of tricks. With patience and time, you can learn from each other. Some seniors are vigorous adults who want to go on hikes and other adventures, while others may want a sunny spot for a cozy nap.”
It was quickly discovered by the Goldsmiths that their senior wasn’t ready to settle into retirement, having no interest in being the “slow, aged rocking chair type of dog.” Instead, Dusty continues to surprise and delight them with his playful nature, especially when he is playing with his beloved toys!
The Goldsmiths stress that senior dogs “are not done learning new stuff, either.” They explain that Dusty not only quickly learned what excitement lies ahead when they present his hiking harness, but that he’s also picked up ‘left/right/wait’ commands while out on the trails. Their brave boy has even worked through his dislike of car rides, especially when he knows the destination includes adoring fans showering him with biscuits!
Baypath’s staff and volunteers experience a unique sense of gratitude when adopters welcome senior pets into their homes and hearts. Like the Goldsmith Family, our team recognizes that while time with seniors may be limited, the joy of providing older pets with loving retirement homes is truly boundless.
