Imagine being an abandoned dog in the twilight years of your life and left on your own. Sounds heartbreaking, right?
At least it does for Nicola Coyle, a dog lover who worked as a nurse. She launched the Grey Muzzle Canine Hospice Project.
This hospice for dying and abandoned dogs is a chance given to senior dogs at the end of their life. She makes sure they receive all of the attention, love, and care they deserve.
The 46-year-old says it’s her goal to help these senior dogs complete their bucket lists.
Hospice for Dying Home Is Trying to Improve End of Life Care Quality for Dogs
Coyle has taken dogs from shelters and pounds and has rescued numerous dogs that would’ve otherwise died alone or put down.
She’s taking two dogs at a time and welcomes those dogs predicted six or less months of life remaining. Rather than living their last days on earth locked and alone, Coyle is giving them the time of their lives.
She’s taking them to birthday parties, treating them with ice cream on the beach, ensures steak dinners and pub nights are always on the list, and of course, unlimited hugs and kisses.
When the final days come and they leave, she ensures they’re cremated and buried in a special plot in her home in Nottingham.
Why Are so Many Senior Dogs Left to Die on their Own?
Every dog she’s ever met, Coyle explains, has a unique story.
However, she believes most of the dying dogs she’s cared for are left by their owners who don’t want to pay for their medical bills or their dogs are no longer capable to work, so they’re no longer useful to them.
It’s heartwarming to hear that a charity that Coyle regularly helps that they’re so grateful to have her. She’s given so much love and care to some of their most desperate dogs that deserved so much more from the owners who abandoned them.
It’s Heartbreaking, but Someone Has to Do It, Coyle Believes
However, Coyle says this isn’t an easy job and it can in fact be a heartbreaking experience, but she believes someone ought to do it.
She’s a big animal lover and unable to bear the thought of these dogs spending their last days or months without any people to show them affection.
Despite the heartbreaking moments of seeing them go, Coyle says it’s rewarding to have given them the opportunity to enjoy their last days.
Coyle, we bow down to you.
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