Colorado State University Pets Forever Program

Funded in 2019

Pets Forever is a unique, service-learning program offered through the College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences at Colorado State University. They provide support and resources for low-income older adults and those with disabilities in Larimer County, Colorado, with the goal of helping them keep their pets at home for as long as possible. Seventy percent of the dogs in their care are seniors. Their mission is founded on the belief that companion animals are vital members of families and keeping human/animal families intact adds value to life, helps avoid the problem of abandoned animals, and ultimately strengthens communities.  

Thanks to the generosity of The Grey Muzzle Organization, Pets Forever will be able to provide health and happiness for the senior dogs in their care. Recognizing that senior pets have unique needs, Pets Forever provides a full range of health and well-being services, including help with veterinary care, a food program that includes veterinary diets, in-home services such as dog walking and yard clean up, grooming services and more. The grant will help dogs like Zanthi and her mother, Oonah. Zanthi is an adorable ten-year old Chihuahua/Pomeranian mix who came to Oonah after needing to have one of her legs amputated. “She needed me as much as I needed her,” explained Oonah. “Without Pets Forever services, I would never have been able to give her a home.”