Lionel's Legacy Shelter Slumber Pawty!

After my three beloved pups, Bailey, Rukus, and Rocco, passed away, my home felt impossibly quiet. I missed the sound of paws on the floor, the weight of a warm body curled up beside me, the simple joy of having dogs in my life. I knew one thing for certain: when I was ready, I wanted to open my heart to senior dogs.

That’s how I found Lionel's Legacy Senior Dog Rescue.

Fostering felt like the right next step. I wasn’t sure what to expect, but I knew I had love to give. My first foster, Larry, changed everything. Larry had been rescued from the streets of Mexico in heartbreaking condition. He was scruffy, silly, a little aloof - and completely unforgettable. I fell head over heels for him.

Just three months after he came into my life, Larry was diagnosed with lymphoma in the lymph nodes near his spine, which began affecting his mobility. The diagnosis was devastating. He passed only a few weeks later. But in those final weeks, he was surrounded by love. He soaked up endless snuggles, lounged peacefully with his foster brothers, and experienced comfort and safety he may have never known before.

Losing him hurt deeply, but it also made something very clear: I was hooked on fostering. Senior dogs deserved this kind of love. And if I could give it, I would.

Of course, once I brought one foster home, I quickly thought… what’s a few more? Now I always have a rotation of at least three at home.

As I continued fostering, I became more involved with Lionel’s Legacy. I got to know Laura, the founder, along with the incredible community of fosters and volunteers who pour their hearts into this mission. I attended every event I could, volunteered whenever possible, and found myself completely inspired by what this organization was building.

When Lionel’s Legacy began searching for a physical location and planning to open a low-cost pet dental clinic, something clicked. In my professional life, I had experience in commercial real estate and project management. Suddenly I realized I could contribute in a whole new way. I stepped in to help with planning, logistics, and getting the clinic off the ground. What started as volunteering quickly grew into helping build and run the clinic itself.

And somewhere along the way, this passion became my purpose.

Today, Lionel’s Legacy isn’t just where I volunteer, it’s my full-time job. What began as a way to heal my own heart after losing my dogs has become the most meaningful work of my life. Senior dogs gave me comfort when I needed it most. Now, I get to spend my days making sure they receive the love, care, and dignity they deserve.