It’s heartbreaking seeing a senior animal abandoned at a shelter. They are confused. Depressed. Dejected.

That’s what happened to Duchess. At 17 years old, this little Dachshund was left at a rural county shelter by her family.

Every day, Duchess waited hopefully for her family to return. And every night, she went to sleep brokenhearted.

Duchess didn’t know it, but she had amazing people like you on her side. Time and again, our friends — generous people like you — lend a hand to homeless animals. Will you lend a hand by making a gift?

Thanks to your support, the Kentucky Humane Society takes in thousands of needy animals. Some are surrendered by their owners or found as strays. Others, like Duchess, are brought to our adoption program from overcrowded shelters across Kentucky. Your generosity gives these animals lifesaving care, safe shelter and, most importantly, bright futures in loving homes.

It was a hot day last summer when Duchess arrived at our doors. Way past her prime and a tongue that permanently stuck out, Duchess charmed our staff. She wagged her little tail excitedly and trotted over to be petted. At KHS, she received dental surgery to remove the last of her infected teeth.

After a month, Duchess’ mouth was healed. But her heart still wasn’t: She didn’t have a family to love, and who would love her back — unconditionally.

But then she met Lou Ann. Lou Ann felt drawn to the little dog with the hopeful eyes and adorable tongue.

“This is the first time in my life that I adopted a pet from a shelter. All of my previous pets have found me by one means or another,” said Lou Ann. “I’ve always told people if I do adopt, it will be an older dog. Little did I think she would be 17 years old.”

In May, Duchess celebrated her 18th birthday. Lou Ann reports Duchess is still doing well. She loves begging for treats, and even gets little “zoomies” when she runs around the house with her “sister,” Lacey, a 13-year-old shih tzu mix.

Clearly, Duchess hit the jackpot thanks to her adopter — and thanks to you, who made Duchess’ rescue possible.

Because of you, we can provide shelter, food and medical care for more than 6,000 animals just like Duchess. For these homeless and abandoned animals, we are their safety net. Your gifts — and your friendship — make this possible.

Your generosity saves lives and, on their behalf, we are sincerely grateful.

Sincerely,

Lori Kane Redmon
President and CEO

P.S. Donations are gratefully accepted online at www.kyhumane.org/donate. Or if you prefer to mail your gift, the address is Kentucky Humane Society, 1000 Lyndon Lane, Louisville KY 40222. Want to give over the phone? Call 502-515-3143.

P.P.S. We also want to thank The Grey Muzzle Organization for their support of senior dogs like Duchess.