November 29 2008
Dogs in their golden years get second chance at Muttville
Estella is missing an eye. Ruthie has an inoperable tumor. Stimpy D has arthritis in his hips.
Geriatric dogs, they would have been euthanized if not for Muttville – a new San Francisco nonprofit that specializes in finding homes for senior dogs that still have a few good years left.
Founder Sherri Franklin has discovered a niche adoption market for old dogs among veterinarians, do-gooders and senior citizens.
People like 78-year-old Marcel Doubovitch of San Francisco, who called Muttville in tears after her husband of 40 years died.
Franklin matched Doubovitch with an elder Chihuahua that had been abused – left outdoors in a wooden soapbox for several years.
Now widow and canine are inseparable.
“I’m so happy!” Doubovitch said. “Before, I would think of my husband and cry. I don’t now because she’s such a love bug – absolutely something special. I love her dearly.” …
