MORE THAN JUST A SANCTUARY

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

Whispering Willows Senior Dog Sanctuary has been located in Hickory County for the past 4.5 years. Around 12 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 and get to live at the sanctuary as family.

Our veterinary team, Lake Hills Veterinary Clinic, visits the sanctuary several times a year for exams, check ups, and anything else required. Dr. Kunz also assists for euthanasias at the sanctuary when quality of life is diminished. Seniors are taken to the clinic for all surgeries, special procedures, hospitalization, etc. The rescue is in contact quite frequently with our wonderful veterinary team, often weekly with different seniors and their needs.

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. Since starting the sanctuary, Whispering Willows has been able to offer full time care for over 600 senior dogs. Over 550 of those seniors have passed over the Rainbow Bridge, with love being whispered until their last breath.

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