You Are Never Too Old To Own Another Pet

When two lonely souls meet by accident, it is love at first sight.

Little Eddie has just turned 14 years old. This senior, yet spritely, gentleman has had quite the journey over the past six months. Eddie, who is a darling little Jack Russell, lived with his owner Arthur* since he was a puppy.

He and Arty, as Arthur’s wife fondly called him, were inseparable. Being an active Jack Russell, they used to do everything together. He had the best life. That was, until Eddie’s owner, who was in his 80s, suddenly passed away.

Both Eddie and Arty’s wife were heart-broken. Things only got worse for the duo when Arty’s wife had to move into a nursing home and sadly could not take Eddie with her.

Overnight Eddie’s life was about to be changed forever.

Facing heart-break once again, Arty’s wife knew that Eddie would have a chance of finding another loving family if she gave him to Animal Welfare League Queensland (AWLQ) because of their promise – to never euthanise a healthy, sociable or treatable animal in their care. So, with a heavy heart Arty’s wife said her last goodbye to Eddie and he was on his way.

Upon arrival at the AWLQ’s Animal Rehoming Centre on the Gold Coast, Eddie immediately became part of the AWLQ family and was loved by all the staff and volunteers.

Despite all the cuddles, walks and reassurance Eddie received, he was terribly scared and depressed. To assist Eddie cope with being separated by his much loved family, he spent his days inside the AWLQ office and went home at night with one of our staff members, until he was ready to find his new home. As Eddie was an older dog, and used to being with an older person, he needed a special home. Little did Eddie know that special home was about to become a reality.

In 2018, 81 year old Doreen sadly lost her husband of 56 years. Now living alone, she quickly became very lonely without her beloved husband. Little did Doreen know, that this was about to change, when by chance, Doreen’s daughter spotted Eddie at the ALWQ Gold Coast Rehoming Centre. She instantly knew this little dog was meant for her mum.

Eddie settled in at his new home immediately and is now spoilt with outings and walks along the beach. Both Eddie and Doreen have a new lease on live. No matter your age…there is someone for everyone.

Doreen has since joined AWLQ’s Golden HeartsTM Seniors’ Pet Support Program - a free program to assist people 65 and older with their pets. For more information on the Golden HeartsTM program visit www.awlqld.com.au, call 07 5509 9033 or email goldenhearts@awlqld.com.au.

*Name has been changed for privacy.