Too many old dogs are abandoned when they need us most.

The Grey Muzzle Organization improves the lives of homeless senior dogs by making it possible for shelters, rescue groups, and sanctuaries to do more for old dogs. We are not a shelter or rescue group. Rather, Grey Muzzle funds programs such as hospice care, senior dog adoption, medical screening, and other special programs to help old dogs at animal welfare organizations nationwide. Distributed through grants, all funds are provided through our fundraising efforts and the generosity of public donations.

Check out our new online store! We have wonderful gifts for dog lovers of all ages (including you!). All profits benefit The Grey Muzzle Organization.

Find out why we believe these programs are so important.

Many dogs are abandoned in their senior years because their caretakers don’t want to take responsibility for the extra care required as part of the natural aging process. In other cases, a well-loved senior dog may become homeless when their senior person enters assisted living, and there is no place else to go. Some old dogs are rescued from a lifetime of abusive or neglectful situations with, finally, a chance enjoy life in their last few years.

Through The Grey Muzzle Organization, you can help create happy endings for dogs in these circumstances. See how you can help.

There’s nothing like an old dog. Nothing like the love of an old dog. The forgiveness, the devotion. You see gratitude in their eyes. It’s just words until you experience it.

- Deborah Workman, The Sanctuary for Senior Dogs

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Nellie's Story

Nellie was a small Whippet mix of about 10 years.  She was left by her family at a shelter, and was so terrified that she refused to eat. The concerned shelter staff contacted OldDog Haven. She was rescued by Grey Muzzle founder Julie Nowicki and cared for by her as part of the OldDog Haven lifelong hospice program. Nellie was a delightful little dog, who leaped with joy when she saw Julie put on her cap and knew it was time for a walk. She was a constant tail wagger and big stuffy lover (although they didn’t last long). This sweet dog was greatly loved in her foster home. Unfortunately, it turned out that she had a very serious form of kidney disease. She died well loved after several months in her new home.

We remember Nellie with many smiles and wish we had more time with her, but we’re grateful that she ended her life in a safe and happy place, not alone in a cement pen.

A goal of The Grey Muzzle Organization is to help shelters, such as the one that took Nellie in, give senior dogs a second chance to know they are loved.