Seniors for Seniors success story

Mary and Lily

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When her dog passed away from leukemia at the age of 16, Mary called San Francisco Animal Care and Control. The ACC officer referred her to Muttville and Sherri Franklin.

On the day Mary arrived at Muttville headquarters to search for a new friend, most of the dogs just went about their business. But one little dachshund, with ears that stuck out like a 747 airplane, stopped to say “Hello” to Mary.

“We have been in love ever since!” says Mary, a 13-year resident of Notre Dame Senior Plaza.

As Mary prepares to put a leash on Lily’s harness to go outside, Lily rolls onto her back and happily waits for her mom. Lily’s fuzzy harness is a Christmas gift from Mary.

Together Mary and Lily enjoy walking around the residential garden area, though as Mary puts it, “She takes me for the walk!” They also enjoy visiting Mary’s children in the East Bay whenever they can.

A dog lover since she was a kid, Mary has found Lily’s companionship invaluable. “Dogs are like a pacifier to a baby,” reciting a quote she heard from a friend. “They soothe you.”

Mary is passionate about supporting senior dog rescue. She says, “The thing I love most about Muttville is that if something happens to me, Muttville will take care of Lily. That warms my heart.”

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