While some people enjoy owning a pet, others love their animals so much they’d do anything to make their life better. To those individuals, these aren’t just furry creatures but members of the family. So, they go above and beyond to ensure they have the best life possible.
Senior and special needs dogs
Sadly, you could visit any shelter, and there, you’ll find lots of older dogs, as well as those with special needs. Too often, people give those animals up because they’ve become a burden. Yet, they still have so much to offer to humans. If you’re thinking about adopting a pup, these precious beings deserve to live out their days knowing they’re loved and cared for.
Stepping up to help
That’s why Chris and Mariesa Hughes from Clifton, Park, New York, focus their attention on dogs that need homes the most. So, they’re now the proud owners of 20 senior and special needs pups. And every one of them is a cherished part of the family.
The Mr. Mo Project
This is the name the couple chose for their non-profit organization. It all started after their older dog named Mo passed away. Having provided him with excellent care, they were left with unbelievably high veterinarian bills. The two of them knew from first-hand experience how much it cost to own an older or special needs pup.
Giving dogs a chance
After the passing of Mo, the Hughes decided to start the organization so they could get these types of dogs out of shelters and into loving homes. As they stated, “Senior dogs deserve the best for the rest of their lives. We believe that senior dogs deserve homes too.” And they’re right.
Saving pups
To this day, Chris and Mariesa have already prevented hundreds of pooches from being euthanized. They’ve also assisted with multiple adoptions and the cost of proper medical treatment. Not only have they helped other people but they have taken 20 senior and special needs dogs into their home.
Fixing a problem
Considering their 20 dogs all have unique needs, it was hard for them to get up and down the stairs, onto beds, and so on. Recognizing they had a problem, the Hughes invested more than $55,000 of their money to make the required changes to their home. Just for the sake of their dogs.
Genuine love
Sure, some people think they’re crazy but most appreciate what they’re doing. Just an example of the modifications they’ve made, the couple purchased a hydrotherapy pool to the tune of $30,000. That way, all their dogs can exercise.
Additional changes
But that’s not all they’ve done to make their home more dog-friendly. The couple also installed ramps, put down plastic sheeting, added floor mats, and the list goes on. For them, it was all about the pups and ensuring they had a safe and loving environment.
Facing challenges head-on
When asked it if was difficult to live with so many dogs, not to mention ones that need extra attention, this is what Chris said. “It is crazy living with 20 dogs but we make it work as we have a great routine. They start each day feeding and administering medication.
Enormous vet bills
But the biggest challenge is the amount of money it takes to care for all 20 dogs. Chris explained, “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.” He added that while it’s stressful, every minute of what they do is well worth it.
Honestly? There should be more people like Chris and Mariesa Hughes. They’re 100 percent dedicated to the dogs they have but many others as well. Kudos to a couple who care so much. Thank you for all you do.
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Source: Bored Panda, Instagram
