by Jenna Trisko
Are you in search of a dog that won’t chew the furniture, is housetrained, understands the meaning of the word “no” and provides unconditional love?
Well, look no further than Grey Face Rescue and Retirement, which specializes in dogs that have those unique attributes. Grey Face Rescue and Retirement is a new animal-welfare organization that gives refuge to homeless senior dogs that have lots of love left to give to their human companions. Founder and President Bethann Gondeck and her husband Josh Gondeck (St. Cloud) started the organization in 2015 with the intention of finding homes for older dogs that may require a bit more care due to age-related health conditions. In a 2012 survey conducted through Petfinder.com, shelters and rescues throughout the country reported senior animals were more difficult to find homes for than animals with behavioral or medical conditions or than dogs that are victims of breed discrimination.
The Gondecks began caring for a senior dog named Barnabee, who isn’t able to go upstairs or walk on hardwood floors due to an arthritic condition, but his personality and affection for humans shines more brightly than any puppy’s. After watching Barnabee happily living out his final days, the Gondecks wish every senior dog could receive love, companionship and quality care. Knowing many senior dogs are looked over in shelters and are often the first to be euthanized for space, Bethann and Josh created the rescue with the hope of not only saving the lives of senior dogs, but also assisting families in keeping older dogs in their homes.
“I really want to push to be the voice for senior dogs,” Bethann said. “They are more special, have more love to give and yet are very dependent on us. I really want to make their final days something special.”
Gray Face Rescue and Retirement operates as a 100-percent volunteer foster-based program that serves the St. Cloud and surrounding areas. Dogs of any shape, size or medical condition are welcome, but they must be age 7 or older. The rescue also offers hospice care for dogs that are terminally ill. The organization will be opening up an office in St. Cloud in December. This facility will not hold animals but will serve as an administrative hub as the rescue continues to grow and creates a larger presence in the area. Along with offering foster care, the organization hopes to eventually offer financial support to families who want to keep their senior dogs but struggle to afford veterinary care for their aging pet.
Marketing volunteer Suzy Sexe, Sauk Rapids, said of getting involved with Grey Face Rescue: “Even if you can’t contribute or foster, I want people to be aware. Help spread the word and share the knowledge of Grey Face. Senior dogs get forgotten and yet give so much love.”
The rescue will hold a fundraiser at Texas Roadhouse from 4-10 p.m. Monday, Nov. 9, with 10 percent of the proceeds going to support the organization. You must bring an event flier with you, which can be found at www.greyfacerescue.org under the Events tab. Also, Nov. 14-15 Howliday Photos with your pet(s) will be available from noon-4 p.m. at Sam and Danni’s in Sauk Rapids. A portion of the proceeds supports the rescue.
The rescue is currently seeking additional help, especially with foster care. Monetary donations, senior food and orthopedic dog beds are also welcome contributions if you aren’t able to volunteer. If you are interested in giving a senior dog a permanent home or want additional information about the rescue and upcoming events, please visit www.greyfacerescue.org.