In a heartrending turn of events, Orange County Animal Services (OCAS) has taken over the care of four dogs whose owners have either passed away or entered hospice care. As these companions face an uncertain future, OCAS has reached out to the public for support and reminded pet owners to have a plan for their animals after they're gone.
While uncommon, the circumstances pose a difficult question to all pet owners, one that OCAS is urging the community to seriously consider. "We need to help these dogs land new homes, and pet owners need to ask themselves: 'Who will look after my pet when I die?'" said Diane Summers, Manager for Orange County Animal Services, as detailed by the Orange County newsroom. The shelter has to quickly find homes for these pets, who range in age and health.
The dogs, now under the care of OCAS, have each come from homes where they were likely a central part of family life. They include Cornel, a seven-year-old dog who was guarding his deceased owner's property; Christina Waguilera, an eight-year-old deaf canine found at a rental property; Mimi, a 14-year-old with advanced age health issues; and Mugs, an older dog whose owner is in hospice. According to Diane Summers, "These were much loved pets who have likely lived in one home their entire lives, with all of that being suddenly uprooted." The full profiles of these dogs can be accessed through the shelter's website.
For individuals looking to adopt one of these or any other pets, OCAS encourages face-to-face interaction at the shelter. The shelter's adoption process, along with more detailed information, can be found on its official website. Bringing one of these dogs into a loving home could make all the difference during their time of need.
