Silver Muzzle 5K

*This event is a fundraiser for medical expenses for senior dogs. Reducing the financial burden that can often be associated with any shelter dog, will hopefully lead to a higher adoption rate in dogs in the senior category*

Growing up, I couldn't wait for the day that I would move out and get myself a brand new puppy. I was guilty of believing that puppies were cuter, more fun, lived longer lives and had fewer health problems. Fast forward to myself at 22 years old, living in my first home. I decided that I was adult enough to take on the responsibility of a dog of my own. However, I realized that I was in no position to care for a dog that would need constant attention and bathroom breaks every hour. In my fantasy life it never occurred to me that there were perfectly great dogs, that didn't require as much attention or training, right at the tips of my fingers. I decided to make a visit to the West Michigan Humane Society where I was immediately intrigued by an, approximately, 6 year old German Shorthaired Pointer. After our 20 minute room visit, I was smitten. All stereotypes had gone out the window. He was soft, he was playful, healthy, and, seemingly, the cutest dog i'd ever seen in my WHOLE LIFE, in my infatuated state. I knew that he had to be mine. I was told after adopting him that he had been transferred from a different humane society due to spending an excessive amount of time there. After a week of Whiskey being with me, I couldn't imagine my life without him. His hobbies included chasing squirrels, running laps around my yard with his nose down, and "tap dancing" around my kitchen. Whiskey was a healthy and happy dog for 4 wonderful years before I got news of his cancer.  Although putting Whiskey down may have been the toughest decision I had ever made, I would not have changed any of it for the world. So to anyone out there concerned about the age or health of an elderly dog, here I am to assure you that the joy I felt, knowing that this dog lived the best last years of his life, is a feeling that I will never forget. So much so, that I cant wait to do it all over again.

This event idea came to me when I had finally decided that maybe I was ready for another dog. The main reasons for low senior adoption rates, like I mentioned earlier, are age and health. Although as much as I wish I could find the fountain of youth, there is nothing I can do for the age of a dog, other than assure you that adopting an elderly dog will be the best decision of your life. I did realize, however, that I could help with medical expenses. This 5k is entirely centered around raising money to pay expenses for senior dogs in the West Michigan area to make them more easily adoptable. If this event gets even one more dog taken out of the shelter and able to live a long fulfilled life, then we have done our job. So lets get together with our friends and animal companions and have some fun while we raise some money for these sweet pups!