Imagine getting old and knowing you’re all alone. What if people took one look at you and immediately assumed you were broken or too much trouble just because of your age? Unfortunately, this is the reality many senior dogs face.

Changes in behavior, frequent trips to the vet, and human challenges all make it difficult for older canines to live out the remainder of their lives, with many sometimes facing euthanization much too soon and for no good reason.

What if, however, there was a group of angels dedicated to offering senior dogs the opportunity to live their best life? Thanks to Founders and Co-Presidents Rachel Schaub, Jasper Webb, and Old Soul Canine Rescue, there is.

Old Soul Canine Rescue is a Gilpin County registered 501(c)(3) driven by volunteers. Webb shares, “A critical part of our mission statement, which I might call our organizational philosophy, states, ‘We honor senior dogs by giving them our best for the rest of their lives.’”

The passion for animals began at a young age for Schaub and Webb, but it was in October 2021 that the Founders and Co-Presidents came together to embark on an “always for the dogs” journey.

After two years in the making, Old Soul Canine Rescue launched its website on Giving Tuesday, November 28, 2023. On Sunday, December 10, 2023, from 2 to 4 p.m., the Very Nice Brewing Company hosted the organization’s launch party.

Old Soul Canine Rescue received an estimated $2,000 in its first two weeks and $1,700 during its launch party. But is it enough? Of course not. Not when one considers the hundreds of thousands of healthy older dogs killed each year and the costs associated with second chances.

“As an organization dedicated to supporting senior dogs, expenses of all sorts, including medical bills, will be a reality and an inevitable part of our work. Contributions will continue to sustain our mission and allow us to provide dogs with the care they deserve,” says Webb.

Old Soul Canine Rescue is looking for volunteers, foster homes, veterinary care, event ambassadors, and monetary donations to help senior dogs across the Peak to Peak region, including pulling them out of overcrowded shelters in hopes of giving them a more comfortable life.

Growing a non-profit organization in a world of great uncertainty can be intimidating, but it didn’t stop Schaub and Webb. If humans were euthanized for getting old and being unwanted, there would be an uproar. Why should it be any different for dogs?

To make a tax-deductible donation, visit https://www.oldsoulcaninerescue.org/. To stay connected, you can find them on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/oldsoulcaninerescue, or you can call them at 303-900-3193.