Heartwarming Adoption Event Unites Adopters With Senior Dogs

Written by Evan ReinhardtPublished Feb. 25, 2023 • 7:39pm

Izzo the dog, 10, soaks in the sun and welcomes the scratches during the "Smooch Your Pooch Adoptathon" event at Muttville in the Mission on Feb. 25, 2023. | Evan Reinhardt for The Standard

Lorrie Verplaetse left Muttville’s senior dog adoption event grateful. She was going home with a new family member, a 13-year-old sleepy-looking dog in a white sweater named Thank You.

“When I heard she was 13, I thought, ‘Oh, she’s really old!’ But then I thought, ‘Well, I’m old!’ And I wouldn’t want dogs feeling that way about me,” said Verplaetse.

Verplaetse is a long time animal enthusiast, having adopted three senior dogs in the past.

“In all cases, they needed love,” she said.

Lorrie Verplaetse smooches her new dog Thank You during the Smooch Your Pooch Adoptathon event at Muttville in the Mission on Feb. 25, 2023. Verplaetse said she wanted to find a new dog after her previous one passed. | Evan Reinhardt for The Standard

This Saturday and Sunday, Muttville Senior Dog Rescue is hosting a "Smooch Your Pooch Adoptathon," offering free adoption for qualified adopters.

The organization aims to find homes for senior dogs in order to prevent overfilled shelters and euthanasia. All of its dogs are seven years and older.

Sherri Franklin, founder and CEO of Muttville, said they get adopters of all kinds, including “families with children that want an experienced dog that’s a little mellower.”

Franklin also said 30% of its adopters are seniors themselves.

Gandalf, 14, awaits a new owner during the "Smooch Your Pooch Adoptathon" event at Muttville on Feb. 25, 2023. Muttville staff said Gandalf is blind in both eyes. | Evan Reinhardt for The Standard

“And why senior dogs? They’re easier, and they’re grateful. And you know you’re saving a life if you adopt a dog from Muttville because that allows us to save one more,” said Franklin.

Hundreds of people came by Muttville’s adoption event on Saturday, which continues from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday at 255 Alabama St.