MORE THAN JUST A SANCTUARY

Whispering Willows Senior Dog Sanctuary, Inc.
“Where love is whispered to the last breath...” 

Many people are afraid to face death and fail to plan for their pets future. Death, or sudden tragedy, can be a frightening reality and this is one of the reasons Whispering Willows exists. WWSDS is a 501c3 non profit and licensed shelter in the state of Missouri. Most shelters do not have the provisions to care for seniors. We assist the community locally and nationwide by filling this gap. 

Whispering Willows Senior Dog Sanctuary has been located in Hickory County for the past 2.5 years. Around 10 years ago Valerie's own Father was passing from cancer. His very own senior Doberman was needing placement and this brought about an awareness for senior dog care. This is where the dream began on Valerie's journey. After moving to Hickory County, the sanctuary was formed and has grown beyond the original plan. 

“Whispering Willows is a place to call home,” said Valerie Reid, the President. WWSDS is a lifetime sanctuary providing shelter, medical care, and most of all love until the senior dog passes. The rescue specializes in end of life hospice care for seniors that have a short time to live, allowing some to experience love for the very first time. After some seniors have been at the sanctuary, they have healed drastically with love and care.  

One way we are able to offer this outstanding care is through our partnership with Dr. Lindsey Roweton of Animal Care Clinic in Bolivar, Missouri. She assists the rescue in full time care for the senior dogs. She and her team visit the sanctuary several times a year for exams, check ups, and anything else required. Dr. Roweton also assists with euthanasia at the sanctuary when quality of life is diminished. Seniors are also taken to the clinic in Bolivar for all surgeries, special procedures, hospitalization, etc. The rescue is in contact quite frequently with Dr. Roweton and usually at the clinic weekly/bi weekly with different seniors. 


WWSDS is immensely sought after to rescue/intake senior dogs. The sanctuary receives 60 to 100 requests per week. This highlights the overwhelming need for senior and end of life care in the pet community. In 2018/19, Whispering Willows was able to offer full time care for 121 senior dogs. 93 of those seniors have passed over the Rainbow Bridge, with love being whispered until their last breath.