We all know that a shelter is no place for dogs to spend their days, yet many are forced to live out their best years in those cold and lonely environments. The most heartbreaking cases are those of senior dogs, who, after years of love and warmth in a caring home, find themselves behind the bars of a kennel.
It’s devastating to realize that an older dog has little chance of ever feeling the warmth of a home again, as most potential adopters seek out puppies or younger dogs. But there are still compassionate people with big hearts who are willing to bring joy to these senior dogs, and today’s story is a shining example of that.
A twelve-year-old dog named Mara was fortunate enough to spend most of her life with a human who adored her. Tragically, that chapter ended when her owner became homeless and could no longer care for her. With a heavy heart and tear-filled eyes, Mara’s owner had to surrender her to the Nebraska Humane Society in Omaha.
Mara’s future suddenly became uncertain, and given her age, shelter staff were not optimistic. However, just when it seemed all hope was lost, a kind soul stepped in to give her a second chance.
“Adopted this senior sweetheart yesterday!” wrote Sarah Brumfield, a 40-year-old community health educator from Omaha, in a heartfelt Reddit post.
In her post, Sarah shared photos of Mara before and after adoption, and the joy on Mara’s face in the second photo spoke volumes.
Sarah’s deep empathy for senior dogs blossomed after the loss of her first dog. Shortly after, she and her family adopted a puppy named Hera, but their joy was short-lived as their second senior dog also passed away. Their hearts were shattered, and it took time to heal. What truly helped them recover was the adoption of Mara. Her smile mended their broken hearts and marked the beginning of a new chapter—adopting senior dogs became their mission.
“Our first dog together was 8 years old, and after that, we decided to continue adopting senior dogs,” Brumfield told Newsweek. “We love being able to give them a home for however much time they may have left.”
While waiting for another senior canine friend to join her, Mara is enjoying her retirement days playing with her younger sister, Hera.
“Hera and Mara are getting along wonderfully! It’s like Mara was meant to be part of our family,” Brumfield joyfully shared.
We hope this beautiful story inspires others to open their hearts to older dogs, who still have so much love to give. Mara is a living example of that.
