Many people feel connected with their pets.
Their pets are part of their family, sharing dinner, snuggles, and play time. They can be children, or guardians, or best friends. Understandably, when one dies, it’s hard to say goodbye and move on.
One man struggled with the passing of his dog, and after months of missing him, he decided to do something about it.
Steve Greig went to a local shelter in Denver, CO and took home a senior dog.
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But he decided not to stop after one; he now takes care of 10 dogs who are all better in age. Greig’s philosophy is to adopt dogs that many overlook—because of their age and because they have health issues. He specifically looks for dogs that don’t get adopted because they are old.
“You kind of know what you want out of life once you become a certain age.point 179 | These dogs know who they are and it’s easy to develop a relationship with a person or pet who knows who they are.point 272 |
It’s just fulfilling knowing that these guys are happy and loved and well-taken care of.point 76 | It makes my days worthwhile,” Greig stated in an interview with The Dodo.point 139 | 1
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He is a dedicated dad, waking up at 5am every morning to feed the crew, which also includes birds, chickens, cats, ducks, a bunny, and a pig named Bikini. Because of their age, many have special diets. He also attends to grooming, vet appointments, and medications.
The work is great, but the payoff is greater.
“Whenever I sit or lie down at a dog-friendly level, there are always at least three or four of [dogs] attached,” Greig posted on Instagram.
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Greig has managed to turn an otherwise sad moment into one of empowerment. Through the death of his close companion, he has become motivated to care for the lives of many more dogs through the end of their lives.
But caring for animals comes easily for Greig, who grew up in an animal-loving household. His parents allowed him to have pets as long as he could care for them. This likely shaped him to become the dog parent he is today.
Greig shows us that adopting animals and taking care of them in return for their unconditional love is never a chore. It’s life changing for humans and animals alike.