Hearts and Paws, a dog fostering program, was began by residents at Sullivan Park Care Center, a Prestige Care Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, in partnership with SpokAnimal C.A.R.E. to help senior shelter dogs find forever homes. While the residents are fostering a senior dog from SpokAnimal, they have the opportunity to help care for them, take them for a walk, feed them, and even just give them love.
The Hearts and Paws program does not only help senior shelter dogs, but also gives the residents a sense of purpose and excitement. Regardless of their abilities, they are all eager to show their dedication to contributing to their community and saving a dog’s life.
“It is amazing to see so many residents with physical and cognitive challenges overcoming all obstacles because of their commitment to saving senior dogs and making a difference in their community.” said Matthew Lysobey, Administrator of Sullivan Park.
Since the program began in March 2022, they have found homes for a dozen senior dogs, and have built relationships within the community to help bring awareness to those dogs.
“We want people to know nursing home residents are still important in our society to do something important,” Patty said, “Dogs save people’s lives too.”
This October, as part of Subaru Loves Pets month, Subaru of Spokane partnered with SpokAnimal to showcase a variety of pets looking for their forever homes, including “Underdogs”, pets prone to longer shelter stays because they are older, deaf, or blind.
In addition to partnering with SpokAnimal to host adoption events during October, Subaru of Spokane also made a special delivery on October 20th to the Hearts and Paws team at Sullivan Park Care Center as part of their dedication to helping “Underdogs” find forever homes.
Jon, from Subaru, delivered a special Bark Box and squeaky Subaru car toy to Shia, Hearts and Paws’ current foster dog, to ensure she’s ready for her new home when she gets adopted. Shia scored some extra love and attention during Subaru’s visit, and even received some treats!
If you would like to help support the “Underdogs” in the Hearts and Paws program, or if you’re interested in adopting Sullivan Park’s current foster dog, contact Patty on the Adoption Hotline at (509) 789-7856.
