In 2011 we had the pleasure of fostering our first senior who was a 15 year old pittie mix pulled from a Los Angeles shelter. We had fostered many dogs before but the one who stole our hearts was Lionel. He was in horrible shape and wasn't given much time to live but his spirit and will amazed and inspired us all. After his passing, we soon realized the amazing gifts he shared with us and felt compelled to advocate for senior dogs in need. In the rescue world it's an extreme gamble as adoption rates for seniors are low and medical costs often high. As a result, so many senior dogs are left behind at the shelter to live out their final days in confusion and discomfort. It is our goal to save and advocate for ONE senior furbaby at a time, and support anyone who is willing to do the same. The second component to Lionel's Legacy is the message we share with our children. As an elementary school teacher, I've learned how little we are doing as a society to educate our children about humane issues involving animals. As a result, we have a mounting problem that so many rescues are working to resolve each day. We have accomplished so much but still have a long way to go. Through our humane education program at Central Elementary, we will be working with Sweetwater High Animal CARE Club to provide an educational program to our students who have a passion for animals. The goal is for students to become compassionate, advocating, respectful, and educated animal lovers who can share their new found knowledge with their peers and leave a legacy that Lionel will remember!
