Saving Senior Dogs Week Highlights Local Rescues
Petaluma residents can support 37 national rescues this week by helping older dogs find new homes or providing medical donations.
Updated on Oct. 26, 2026 in Dogs
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Saving Senior Dogs Week begins today, October 25, aiming to increase awareness and funding for shelters helping older dogs across the U.S. In Petaluma, the event shines a spotlight on the needs of aging rescues like those at Lily's Legacy Senior Dog Sanctuary.
Why it matters
This annual campaign addresses the capacity issues faced by shelters and highlights the benefits of adopting senior dogs. Supporting these organizations ensures that older animals receive essential veterinary care and enrichment in their final years.
There are 37 rescue organizations participating in the 8th annual event. Locally, Lily's Legacy has rescued over 1,000 dogs since 2009, specifically targeting those at least 7 years old and weighing 50 lbs or more.
The players
Lily's Legacy Senior Dog Sanctuary
A Petaluma-based organization dedicated to rescuing and providing lifelong care for large, senior dogs.
Alice Mayn
The founder of Saving Senior Dogs Week, who established the awareness campaign to support animal welfare organizations.
The details
During the week, participating rescues share stories of available senior dogs on social media to encourage adoptions and donations. Lily's Legacy provides a high level of care for these animals, including daily enrichment, specialized veterinary support, and access to a swimming pool. The sanctuary operates with a team of volunteers and two caregivers living on-site, ensuring 24-hour oversight for the senior dogs in their facility.
Timeline
2009: Lily's Legacy Senior Dog Sanctuary begins operations.
2019: Alice Mayn creates Saving Senior Dogs Week.
October 25-31, 2026: Saving Senior Dogs Week runs for the 8th year.
The Home Front
This campaign builds upon the established precedent of the 2019 inaugural Saving Senior Dogs Week to expand national awareness of senior pet adoption. It highlights a growing trend in pet care that emphasizes long-term sanctuary support for animals with specialized health and social needs.
If you are considering pet adoption, research your local rescue requirements to see if you can accommodate a senior dog's specific needs, such as weight or medical care. You can also support the cause by visiting the Saving Senior Dogs USA website to contribute to the collective medical fund.
The takeaway
Senior dog rescue efforts provide essential support for aging animals that might otherwise be overlooked in traditional shelters. Consider donating to local sanctuaries or sharing social media profiles of senior dogs in need to help them find a forever home.
Further reading
Learn more about local pet care resources on our Dogs section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Forbes.
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Would you consider adopting a senior dog instead of a puppy for your next pet?
