On February 14, 2024, we bid farewell to Lila, my beloved 17-year-old brown dog. Sixteen years prior, I had rescued Lila as a heartfelt promise to my first dog, Mattie. I called it the Brown Dog Promise—a commitment made to Mattie as she crossed the rainbow bridge, ensuring that I would always have a brown dog resembling her. A week later, Lila entered my life, becoming the first fulfillment of that promise. (Diego later became the second.)

In honoring Lila's memory, we felt compelled to establish another pledge—the Old Dog Promise. This vow ensures that we will always have an elderly dog at the sanctuary, providing them with the utmost care and a peaceful, dignified ending. Through this initiative, we aim to extend this compassionate gesture to other sanctuaries and individuals, enabling them to make their own Old Dog Promise.

Join us in our mission to rescue aging dogs from shelters and offer them the love and comfort they deserve in their final days. Together, let's ensure that every old dog finds their way into loving arms, experiencing the beauty of a peaceful and cherished farewell.

Lila’s Memorial Old Dog Promise Program Fund

Help us say YES to getting as many old dogs out of shelters and in loving homes as possible!

Team Members