The sanctuary

Female, Beagle, 18 years old

 

Sweet little Martha came into our care as a 16 year old girl who already had a few health scares. Her prior 'human' adopted her from a beagle rescue and had her for a few years before he got too sick to care for her. He had to move into an assisted living facility out of state closer to family and unfortunately Martha couldn't come along. Her original rescue couldn't take her back and her last option would have been the shelter. Then we stepped in. 

 

At 16 with some health scares, we weren't sure how long she had on this Earth. We decided to keep her as a Sanctuary pup and give her the happiest rest of her life. She amazes us by being here at 18 years old. 

 

 If you have never adopted a senior dog, consider opening your heart and home to one in need. We have had a handful of senior sweethearts retire with us and not once has the experience ever been not worth it. It is an honor to give comfort, love and care to a creature in need who is in their golden chapter of life. Everyone deserves peace and happiness. Especially in their retirement years. 

Male, Thoroughbred, 18 years old 

 

Our retired racehorse worked his early years in life on the track in Florida. He was luckily bought at an auction and brought up to Pittsburgh, PA! He was sold here again and worked as a riding lesson horse, but wasn't rightly fit for it. He was then bought by a family. 

 

His family didn't have the time or money to continue caring for Skor. With Skor having some behavior issues (like cribbing and being a little mouthy sometimes) and his owner no longer living in the state......Skor needed a place to go! 

 

Horses who don't have homes anymore often find themselves at auctions where their outcome isn't always promised to be good. 

 

We are so happy that Skor was surrendered to us. It is an absolute joy and privilege to give a retired racehorse like Skor the life and love he so truly deserves. President Jamie pays for about 70 percent of Skor's boarding and care out of personal pocket but Wishbone's assists in some financial help so that Skor can thrive and get everything he needs. 

Male, Bully mix, 1.5 years old

 

On July 29th, 2025 we picked up Mr. Frodo! This is definitely a special little boy. Not only is he just the gosh darn cutest & sweetest but he was born disabled. He was born to a mother dog who was too small and Frodo got a little squished up. His little spine sustained an injury and he was born paralyzed from the injury down/incontinent. 

Frodo's Mom was a 'bully breed' and accidently became pregnant when a neighbor's 2 male, un-nuetured pitties got loose. Frodo had 2 other littermates who didn't make it. Despite Frodo's clear disabilities a couple of rescues stepped up and worked together to try and give him a chance at life. He has such a happy go lucky, zest for life spirit, afterall! 

 

He was brought to different veterinarians to be checked out! He eventually got neutered and also had his left rear leg amputated to help him get around. 

 

We had been following his story since he was a little baby! He was supposed to be a forever foster with one of his rescuers but due to unfortunate circumstances and their nonprofit closing down, they were unable to give him the care he needs. The other rescue also couldn't give him the time and care he needs at their crowded shelter and he really needed another rescue or adopter to step in. We couldn't stop thinking of him. 

 

Frodo has been in a couple different foster homes, rescues/shelters and we believe a boarding facility. He's finally landed himself here with us at 'the Shire'. We've really created such a good routine and life for Frodo. We love him so very much. As do all of our supporters.