In the serene hills of Morgan Hill, a local nonprofit, Brave Dogs Advocacy, is making a significant impact by providing a sanctuary for senior dogs nearing the end of their lives. Founded by Armani Mondragon in 2022, this organization rescues elderly dogs from shelters and offers them a comfortable, loving environment where they can spend their final days with dignity and care.
Key Takeaways
- Brave Dogs Advocacy focuses on senior and hospice dogs, providing them with a safe haven.
- The nonprofit was founded by Armani Mondragon, who has a passion for animal welfare.
- The sanctuary currently houses 18 senior dogs, each receiving personalized care.
- Fundraising and medical care are the primary challenges faced by the organization.
A Mission Born from Compassion
Armani Mondragon’s journey began with a deep commitment to animal welfare, advocating for dogs in local shelters. After years of dedication, she established Brave Dogs Advocacy to specifically cater to senior dogs, who often face abandonment and neglect.
Initially, Mondragon hosted the dogs in her living room, but as the number of rescues grew, she constructed a tiny house on her property to accommodate them better. This space allows her to provide a nurturing environment, contrasting sharply with the overcrowded conditions often found in shelters.
A Home for Every Dog
At Brave Dogs Advocacy, the focus is on ensuring that each dog, regardless of how long they stay, experiences comfort and love. Some dogs may live out their remaining years at the sanctuary, while others may only stay for a few days. Mondragon personally attends to the grooming and care of all 18 dogs, ensuring they feel cherished.
- Types of Dogs Rescued:
- Senior dogs
- Hospice dogs (including younger dogs with terminal conditions)
One of the first dogs to enter the sanctuary was Beauty, a 12-year-old pitbull who had endured a difficult life. Her story inspired Mondragon to dedicate her efforts to providing a safe haven for senior dogs, emphasizing the importance of giving them joyful moments in their final days.
Challenges and Triumphs
Brave Dogs Advocacy does not offer dogs for adoption, as most are elderly and have significant medical needs. Mondragon believes that returning a dog to the sanctuary after adoption would be detrimental, so she focuses on providing a permanent home for these animals.
The organization faces financial challenges, primarily due to the high costs of medical care. Most funds are allocated to veterinary services, with partnerships established with local veterinarians to ensure the dogs receive necessary treatments. For instance, a pitbull named Alchemy required surgery that would have cost $3,000, but through community support, the procedure was completed for about $800.
Looking Ahead
To sustain its mission, Brave Dogs Advocacy is planning its first Holiday Boutique Fundraiser on December 7. This event aims to raise funds to continue providing care for the dogs and to expand their outreach efforts.
Armani Mondragon’s dedication to these senior dogs exemplifies the compassion and commitment needed to make a difference in the lives of animals in need. Through her efforts, Brave Dogs Advocacy not only offers a sanctuary for dogs at the end of their lives but also raises awareness about the plight of senior animals in shelters.
