Happy's Place- Retirement Home for Dogs

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Strathroy, ON
Happy's Place- Retirement Home for Dogs

A 100% non-profit organization. In home based senior dog rescue for dogs. Building relationships betw https://linktr.ee/happysplace

01/11/2025

The teeniest munchkin gets a new beginning thanks to you ❤️.

A couple of days ago I received a request from one of our shelter partners to welcome into our care a very teeny lady who needed a second chance. Susie, who it was shared with us as 14 years now, found herself in shelter when her caregivers no longer wanted to house her due to ever growing medical needs. The shelter, they too did not have the resources to provide care for what she needed, and so, that leaves us to set this wee one up for success.

Thank you to Freedom Drivers for her speedy ride into care & to her fosters who welcomed their home even when they were on a break.

Because rescue never stops.

Little Susie sadly lost her original momma 2 years ago now & family had been housing her since. I use the term housing because no medical care was provided to her & it's been desperately needed for a long while.

-severely matted fur & long nails
-heart murmur
-tracheal difference
-full dental needed- rotten & falling out
-mass under her armpit

She's a super hot mess.

Beyond that? She's incredibly sweet & has been the perfect houseguest so far. And just like all of the others, she deserves a second chance too.

Welcome to Happy's Place little Susie. It all gets better from here ❤️.

01/10/2025

5 beautiful new beginnings because you helped us to say yes ❤️.

A few months ago we were asked to help out a gentleman who we were told wasn't feeling his best & needed assistance with caring for his 5 dogs. Surrender forms were signed & details were shared with us by several individuals that the dogs were sweet but shy, & needed to he spayed. We were told they were otherwise your typical dogs.

All I will say is this- the truth about these dogs- 100% a backyard breeder. Each used for $$$ & nothing more. Each having had multiple litters.
The 5 dogs had been living in absolute neglectful conditions. The 5 dogs had NEVER been outside (ranging from 5-12 years), had NEVER been to a vet & lacked socialization. The 5 dogs- they arrived smelly, with f***s on their paws, & most of them completely untouchable. These dogs, they've been through the ringer all while their quiet neighborhood continued on outside totally unaware.

Please do NOT support this practice. If you cannot see their parents or where they live- run. Many of these people are very sneaky in how they do things. Many appear to be on the up & up. Please do your due diligence.

I honesty wondered how the heck we were going to support these dogs when they arrived. Terrified of the world & so very costly as a group. But because of each of you who donated to their medical care we were able to provide 5 spays, 5 fully updated vetting appts, 5 full mouth extraction dentals, specialized xrays, & a cystotomy to remove bladder stones too.

And with their incredible foster homes behind them, 5 little dogs all found their happy too. The care that they were given by those fosters- I am in awe of you all. What a gift you've given them.

5 little dogs with new chapters. And amazing forever families who will continue to go at their pace & to show them just how awesome life can be.

Finding happy- it's what we do.

Happy adoption days to Girly, Precious, Peaches, Corky & Ginger. Best life living, it begins now ♡.

01/09/2025

Super strong cuteness to start your day ♡.

Meet Lilo!

This adorable wee one made a very long journey to get to us a few weeks back. As part of IFAW's Northern Dog Project, Lilo took a flight, a very long car ride, and yet another long car ride before making into her foster home!

Shout outs to IFAW Northern Dogs Project for alerting us that this wee one needed help, to Flights For Hope for donating her flight, & to Critter Cabs Animal Rescue Transport for her ground transport too. And of course to our own wonderful volunteer who opened up her home to welcome this wee babe in.

Teamwork is where the magic happens!

Another member of our team- the Strathroy Animal Clinic who will squeeze Lilo in for a dental next week so she can find her forever family soon.

Ps- if you want to know more about Lilo, her entire profile will be ready for you next week (no apps yet please), but for a sneak look- she's super sweet, loving, healthy & fun. Lilo also is good with cats, children & other dogs. And she's really good at flying too!

Cheers to these fine folks for their recent donations, & are now known as Team Lilo!

Carole Lovell-Whelan
Anne Archer
Jonathan Bega
Elaine Stewart
Georgina Neranzi
Donna Pettigrew
Kristina Denstedt
Martin Miyata
Doris Melber-Lange in memory of Jasper 🌈
Judith McCutcheon in memory of Shaila 🌈
Jackie Short in memory of her sweet pups 🌈
Julie Silcock & Julspops Dog Walking
Veronica Tavares

Together is how it's done ❤️

Welcome to Happy's Place Lilo!

Ps- stay tuned for her newly groomed photos coming soon!

01/08/2025

That Happy's Place alumni Bean Sprout sure likes to give back! He's got his own hoodie out now. Want to order your very own?

Head on over to Girl With The Dogs or click on the link below to order direct.

With every purchase of this Bean Sprout hoodie, 5% will be donated back to Happys Place.
❤️❤️
https://girlwiththedogs.com/shop/p/gwtd-bean-sprout-hoodie

PS- if you have questions please reach out to Vanessa (Girl with the dogs)

01/08/2025

Little Maya is super grateful for each and every single one of you who support our senior dogs because it meant she scored a ride out of the shelter and into foster care!

Maya might look like a frail wee bean, but she's got some s***k and sass (when she's not busy soaking in all of the snuggles that she can).

Got cozy blankets and a lap? Maya is your gal!

Maya was spayed in shelter for us while we waited for her travel date (thank you Freedom Drivers), & her face & nails urgently clipped due to the level of matting she was experiencing. And of course she will be treated to a full spa day with us as well.

I will say it again and again! MATTED FUR HURTS. LONG NAILS HURT. If you are a pet parent it is your responsibility to keep your furry friend groomed properly. End of story.

Maya heads to our clinic for a full head to tail check and to have all of her vetting updated too. She will also be booked in for a dental as her teeth- they are DISGUSTING. And just like the fur- rotten teeth are painful and uncomfortable too.

Shout outs to the following individuals who will help Maya to live a healthier & pain free life.

RITA SPANNBAUER
HEIDI BISCHOF
LUCILLE ARSENAULT
JENNIFER WALKER
STEVE PHELPS on behalf of Julspops Dog Walking & Pet Sitting
KATHRYN MCDONALD
ROLAND CHEVALIER
ELIZABETH MCCARTNEY in memory
of Henley 🌈
CLAUDIA WUNDER
MARY DIANE MCCREADY in memory
of Tucker 🌈
GORDAN VANCE in memory of Pumpkin 🌈

This teeny munchkin is ready for new adventures & snuggles ahead. Welcome to Happy's Place Maya ❤️

01/07/2025

Oops (we've accidently) done it again!

Y'all know I'm a huge sucker for pugs so when we were asked to help these two adorable boys it was an automatic YES! from me. I just can't help myself ❤️.

Truth be told, it was originally shared with us that Milo (brindle) was a 7 year old senior and Blue (fawn) was his 4 year old son. However, when all paperwork was complete & vet records sent over, this is where I learned that Milo is only 5 and wee Blue- he's only 2.

The boys, who were already set to travel (thank you Critter Cabs Animal Rescue Transport) would become honorary seniors instead. Shout outs as well to Hank's Haven Rescue Foundation for helping these fellows with a temporary stay when a snowstorm prevented their arrival for a bit. When we all work together, good stuff happens.

Blue & Milo are awesome dogs! They've been used to sofas and snuggles & are great with cats, dogs, and children too. Their momma needed to make a really hard decision & I'm grateful we could be there. They are already neutered but all of their vetting does need to be brought up to date. They head to our clinics this week to be sure they are both in tip top shape.

When ready, the boys will be seeking separate homes. They are not a bonded pair & it's good for some separate lives to exist. Both are very playful & as non seniors are FULL of zip & zoom.

Shout outs are also heading out today to Happy's Place almuni Rocky & the Windjack family who recently sent us a huge $1000.00 donation which will be used for both of the boys to get them adoption ready.

Thank you to each of their fosters for welcoming these honorary seniors into their homes too-

What a fabulous team you've all got behind you Milo & Blue- welcome to Happy's Place ♡.

01/06/2025

Monday shout outs heading right to Diane Vinces of Canistic and Co.

Diane is a mobile canine massage and bowen practioner in the Niagara region, specializing in geriatric and arthritis management. In December, Diane hosted a fundraiser for us and was able to recently make a very generous $400.00 donation towards our senior dogs and their care.

Every year Diane chooses a dog rescue to fundraise for and this year we are the lucky recipients.

A huge thank you to this fabulous small business owner. What a beautiful way to give back.

To learn more about Diane and what they do, you can find them at:

Facebook:
Instagram:
Website: www.canistic.ca

Thank you so much Diane ❤️.

01/06/2025

I've always been someone who believed in second chances. Because, well, what if?

This is the love story of a beautiful & remembered soul (and Happy's almuni) Cheemo. Cheemo arrived into our care two years ago, in quite a peculiar way. He was the dog whom almost never arrived except by chance and a twist of fate.

And sometimes, those make the very best stories of all.

This is where I'm so grateful for the partnerships we've made. These folks, they know that when many others say no, we will be the ones to say yes to those medical dogs. Because, what if.

Cheemo had originally made a very long trek to some individuals who had committed to take over his care. Upon his arrival to them it was discovered that Cheemo had (in their words) severe hip dysplasia, was palliative & no longer adoptable making him a candidate for euthanasia). Thank goodness for folks who gifted us the opportunity to be his second chance instead.

Because while yes, Cheemo's diagnosis was correct- kinda... hip dysplasia was mild, not severe, the dog we took into our care- he could run & play & zoom like the wind.

And that's just what he did ❤️.

For two entire years, Cheemo & his new adopter, they danced like no one was watching.

For two years, this not once but twice unwanted old dog went on adventures & hikes & lived an incredible life with his momma by his side.

For two years, this dog had an AMAZING Life thanks to his wonderful person.

Recently, his health began to catch up with him & his momma, she knew it was time. Even his previous fosters were included in that final goodbye. A beautiful ending for a beautiful boy.

Surrounded by love ❤️.

This is what finding happy looks like. And this is why we will continue to do what we do.

Taking a chance matters.

Run free across that bridge sweet boy. 🌈

And to Cheemo's momma- thank you for being someone who believes in the power of what if too ♡. Two wonderful years for two very best friends. Xoxo

01/05/2025

Want to know what keeps me going each day in this sometimes ridiculously overwhelming world of rescue? It's the happily ever afters. No matter if it's been a short bit or a long while, those updates from our adopters, they are the best parts of it all.

And this photo of Happy's almuni Benson- it makes my whole heart sing ♥️. A huge thank you to his family for sending this recent image our way.

You see Benson here wouldn't have been around without rescue. He wouldn't be going on lots of adventures and living his very best life. And without rescue? This once very sick at risk of euthanasia boy, he wouldn't have found better health and then have a family that years later continues to be over the moon about him.

That's right ♡, Years.

Benson here came into our rescue mid 2020 and was adopted way back in September 2020. And although he's older now and slightly slower than he once was, his happy- it continues to shine bright. Because of rescue.

This is where your donations go to.

They save lives.

They change lives.

They find happy.

From all of us here at Happy's Place- howl on Benson, howl on ❤️.

01/05/2025

Adoption news! Adoption news!

Our littles are always in popular demand & looking at these adorable photos it's quite easy to see why. I mean not only are they super cute & super sweet, but we pride ourselves on the amazing medical care we provide to each dog who comes through our door so that post Adoption, you can concentrate on loving them instead ♡.

Jingles & Katie arrived into our care as owner surrenders. They were very loved dogs ♡, but required a ton of medical care before they would be ready to find new home. Ps- if you have a yorkie- you can betcha they will need dentals! Your donations to our program provided each of them with fully updated vetting, & a dental for each dog *almost full mouth extractions for each!

Your donations also provided Katie with repairing an eye ulcer as well as specialized care. And for Jingles- an ultrasound for renal as well as specialized care. **multiple vet visits for each.

This dynamic duo is full of s***k & fun! The best part- they have now settled into their new forever home just as though it's where they have always been.

And Winnie- this wee peanut who arrived into our care when the shelter she was in did not have the resources to continue her care, she blossomed in her foster home & they quickly knew- this is the one for us. That's right folks- little wee Winnie- those fosters turned forever once she had her vetting brought up to date, & had a dental, a spay, & a tumor removal too. The tumor was sent for testing & it was nothing to worry about. Her happy ending, it began the second her family said yes.

A truly beautiful start to the stories of 2025. Happily ever afters. One (or 3) senior dogs at a time ❤️.

Happy adoption days Jingles, Katie & Winnie!

01/04/2025

Applications to adopt this dog are currently closed. Please consider adopting another senior dog instead

Oma- 12 years- female- 13 pounds

Oma is just about the sweetest thing going and she's ready for YOU to adopt!

-very social and friendly with everyone she meets
- good with cats
- Loves children (including babies-she lives with one)
- good with dogs of all sizes as long as the dog is not jumping all over her (no bouncy puppies for her please)
- loves going for walks and has the energy for a long walk too.
- still getting used to car rides (this will just take more practice as she is scared so shakes)
- wants a home where she can be your cuddly buddy
- fine to be left alone while you work
-apartment and condo friendly
- she’s playful, youthful and funny so her guessed age may be wrong.
-house trained with regular let outs every few hours through the day (she sleeps all night well)
-sleeps in bed with her people
- really easy to handle, was great for her grooming.
- great house manners
-medical- a healthy girl. Spayed and a dental done January 2025.

To adopt Oma- head to our website at www.happysplace or by clicking here: https://happysplace.ca/adoption-application/

Oma is currently fostered in Guelph ON and is $500.00 to adopt.

(more photos in comments)

01/04/2025

Applications to adopt this dog are currently closed. Please consider adopting another senior dog instead.

Benji- 9 years- male- 13 pounds

Looking for a new best friend? Look no further than Benji - endless snuggles included!

-top notch snuggler & cuddler- VERY affectionate
-great on leash- loves his walks & great manners
- squeaker toys and balls are the best
-great with children
-super fan of belly rubs
- Benji is currently living with cats but is seeking a cat free adopter because cats are a bit too enticing to chase
- his favourite place being on your lap or beside you but he's also great to stay alone while you work
- good house manners & well behaved
- In true yorkie fashion this fine chap likes to be the King of his castle. He meets other dogs outside of his home very well however in his home would prefer not sharing the snuggles. He can be a bit of a bossy bee sometimes.
-travels well in the car
-sleeps through the night in bed with his people
-house trained
-apartment and condo experienced
-does 3 stairs on his own inside however doesn't seem to yet know how to do an entire flight. He just hasn't had experience has his mobility is great! Stairs outside are not an issue & inside will get better with practice.
-Medical- a healthy and neutered boy!

Benji is the absolute best dog and adapts very easily to new environments too. He's quite the gem. To make him a part of your forever, applications can be found online at www.happysplace.ca or by clicking here: https://happysplace.ca/adoption-application/

Benji is currently being fostered in Dundas ON and is $500.00 to adopt.

(more photos in comments)

01/04/2025

Loved.

Happy's Place family, meet Turbo. He's just about the sweetest dog you're going to meet. He's exceptionally well behaved & incredibly social too. He's everything you're gonna want in a dog.

And he's a very lucky boy.

Why?

Because his person, they loved him enough.

Enough to reach out to find support in caring for their boy when they could no longer.

Enough to make sure he is kept protected & safe.

Enough to choose help.

I think it takes a lot of guts to do this. To love someone enough. Turbo's person- they've got my total respect.

And that's where we come in. Once this sweet boy has his vetting brought up to date with our own clinic it will be our job to find Turbo his next chapter. With someone who will always choose "enough".

Someone who will carry on the love that his previous person still carries with them. It's a very important job ❤️.

Thank you to the following individuals who will play a part of Turbo's journey too.

Turbo's foster family
Christopher Kelly
Dennise Campbell
B Sagolili
Mandy Denomme in memory of Happy's Place almuni Cheemo 🌈
Osecco
Patricia Dietz
Lona Bourke in memory of Happy's Place almuni Ellie Mae 🌈
Albert Gostick
Jennifer Nelson
Andrea Burrows
Sue Lout in memory of Max 🌈

Unconditional love & next chapters- welcome to Happy's Place Turbo ❤️

01/03/2025

Sooooo, let's share some adoption news ❤️.

Adoption news always takes me to a happier place. Sidebar- it's only barely 6am right now and I've alreadg been up and on my computer since 4am answering emails. 11 surrender requests came in while I slept last night... so yep- let's zoom off to an happier place for a minute.

Belle arrived into our care via shelter transfer where we were told she was unadoptable due to her age & health. And although she did come to us with a terrible upper respiratory infection (we treated immediately), the rest of her- a very healthy girl. Belle was spayed & had a dental & this s***ky & fun 9 year old girl found her best fit forever. Belle would like to thank our good friend Peter Lowe for paying the cost of her entire dental 😊. This generous gift has given Belle the opportunity to feel like a young pup again.

We're also giving shout outs today to our friends at Animalert in London for their continued dedication to our senior dogs too.

And Peaches, one of 5 little ones who arrived into our care via owner surrender which appears to have actually been a very neglectful backyard breeding situation. None of the dogs had ever been outside before, never had any vetting, & were completely under-socialized. Peaches, with her vetting done (including a spay & full mouth extractions) is now feeling so much better thanks to: Catherine McClure, Natalie Parsons, C Hitchen, Kristie McIndoe, Dale Baer, Andrea Burrows, Michelle Leschak, & Cassandra Cesco. Working together, you've helped Peaches get the life she's always deserved.

Looking to help out a very special little dog like Peaches? Previous housemates Girly & Precious are still on the hunt for their best fit forever at www.happysplace.ca

A very happy adoption day to both Belle & to Peaches too. Girly & Precious- your turn is hopefully soon ❤️.

01/02/2025

I'll be honest- I've written & erased this particular post many times. Because I'm having a truly tricky time.

Let's back it up a bit.

New Years Eve we were asked to help Milo- a fellow quite down on his luck on the last day of the year & he needed to leave an extremely over crowded Ontario shelter because there was simply no more places to put him upon arrival. *he waited in their office until our volunteer arrived.

Milo wasn't a stray. He has had the same family his entire life. Milo looks like a medium sized dog. He is actually a miniature small dog- who is sadly EXTREMELY OBESE. *the pictures certainly don't show the current struggle.

His people brought him to be EUTHANIZED because of this issue... & of course the shelter vet refused. Because they noted Milo otherwise appears to be a very healthy dog. (Full intake at our own vet shortly).

This is not a reason to end your dogs life... Milo will have a long wait loss journey ahead of him but we know he can do it. His tiny frame should not be holding up this much weight. Lifting his leg to urinate is actually a chore for him right now.

Looking ahead- I can't wait to see a video of him running like the wind ♡.

The biggest thing here- this very sweet boy- he is completely overwhelmed without his family. He is constantly searching for them & just wants to go home. Milo, despite what's happened- he remains faithful to them.

We truly do not deserve dogs...

And so even though he doesn't know it yet, thanks to this amazing community, things are very much looking up for Milo. It's a new life full of snuggles & better health. And someday, a new family who he'll be holding onto too.

Thank you to an incredible $1000.00 donation made in memory of Rufus Becker 🌈 which will be dedicated to Milo & his medical journey ahead.

New beginnings- This is my promise to you.

Welcome to Happy's Place Milo ❤️.

01/01/2025

The first day of 2025. Oh the possibilities that exist within this year. So much finding happy to be found out there ♡.

Our first story of the year, (before we begin to celebrate some of our last adoptions too), is where we give proper introductions to the very sweet Virginia ♡.

Virginia, who was originally found as a stray via Ontario shelter got a lot of public attention & help looking for her previous people. And they were actually located. Except they did not want her back...

And although that sure sounds sad, in this case, I think it might have been for the best. Why? Because the condition of her ears & the amount of suffering she's been through- this is why fresh starts need to exist. And we are so grateful to be the ones to make this all happen.

Virginia's ears are so infected that emergency care was offered immediately to try to reduce some of the itch, pain & swelling she's had to endure. Before treatment, she was literally dragging her head on the sidewalk to try to relieve this. These are officially the worst ears we've seen. This is not something that just happens overnight.

The road ahead Will be a LONG one for her. There will be multiple vet visits, specialized appointments and who knows what else.

And yet somehow, this incredible wee girl, she's still full of happy tail, snuggles & lots of love. Virginia LOVES to cuddle on laps a lot.

Cat and dog friendly too- you betcha!

Virginia was also treated for tapeworm as well as had long nails cut. The matted fur, it's the least of her issues right now (she will be groomed asap). Her entire vetting needs to be brought up to date, & she of course will need a spay too. (No clue about those teeth yet). But those ears... they are right now, #1 top priority for us.

Thank you to our amazing volunteer Kat for swooping in quickly yesterday & heading out on an unexpected road trip to bring her into our care. You're appreciated very much!

If you'd like to join us in making Virginia's 2025 the year this princess has always deserved, donations can be sent to [email protected] Or via PayPal at www.happysplace.ca

Welcome to Happy's Place Virginia- the good stuff, it starts right now ♡.

12/31/2024

What did we do in 2024?

With the last minute additions of Milo and Virginia who are being rescued right this very minute, together you've helped us to create 209 next chapters this year.

As I looked over the list of rescued dogs in 2024, I think my mouth dropped wide open as I did a double count.

209 rescued dogs (there was one cat in there as well) in 2024.

This is the incredible impact you've had.

Together, you've provided opportunities, offered change & new hope, and increased awareness about senior dog adoptions too.

Together, you've helped to create forever families & a space for so many once unwanted dogs to finally become unconditionally loved, as well as a space for those dogs who were blessed with love before us, when their families could no longer be there.

Together, you've helped to make the impossible possible over and over again.

Together, it's where we do our very best. And what an incredible team we are.

Thank you to each of you for this beautiful year. I can't wait to see what happens next.

You'll meet Milo & Virginia once they've had a chance to settle in but for now, I'll leave you with this.

Instead of saying goodbye to the year we've had, let's see it as welcoming 365 more days just ready to unfold.

Fresh. And full of beautiful stories all yet to be told.

209 pages of finding happy in 2024.

It's almost time to turn the page.

What an amazing ride it's going to be ❤️.

Angela Balcom
Founder/Director
Happy's Place

Ps- want to join us?

Applications to volunteer, foster, or adopt:
Www.happysplace.ca

Donations: PayPal at www.happysplace.ca or etransfer at [email protected]

Spread awareness: share, like, and comment on our posts.

Happy New Year team Happy- here we go ❤️.

12/31/2024

Thank goodness for our volunteers ♡.

Because of volunteers, Macie spent Christmas cozy with a foster family instead of out on the streets as an unclaimed stray.

Because of volunteers, Macie spent Christmas running zoomies in the yard & playing with her new favorite toys instead of being cramped up in a cage on an overfull shelter floor.

Because of volunteers, Macie will be soon treated to a full princess pampered spa day instead of being left with matted fur & overgrown nails.

Because of volunteers, Macie has a belly full of delicious donated food, & enjoys walks on a new harness & leash, given just to her.

And because of your donations too, little Macie gets the second chance that she very much deserves. We might not know how Macie ended up where she did that day, but what we do know is this- coming her way- up to date vetting, and an eventual spay to protect her from so many unwanted things (she arrived in a heat...).

Macie is a gem- welcome to Happy's Place sweet girl ❤️.

Address

Strathroy, ON

Website

http://www.happysplace.ca/

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Videos

Hazel is adopted

From having spent her first 9 years living outdoors on a chain alone to living her very best life- Hazel is exactly why we do what we do. December 3rd we held our Giving Tuesday campaign, and together the individuals listed below helped to provide Hazel her second chance. Not only did you provide opportunity for Hazel to come into care and receive proper vetting but you also sent in donations to cure her of cancer as well. Stephanie Groves Dorothy Miyata Jane McArthur Jackalyn Short in honour of Harriet, Paco, & Millie 🌈 Nancy Banavage Krista Mills Lorna Mills Leslie Lemaich Joanne Langley Beth Dunbar Claire McKenzie Nancy Niles Marta Rozman Wendy Ross Steffi Black Colleen Bressette L Green in memory of Kimmy 🌈 Rebecca Laskey Kelly Roloson Leslie McCrea Kerri Kozicki Katherine Smyth Vicki Lewis John Robinson in memory of Hank 🌈 Colleen O'Handley Marla Robinson Julie Citrigno Kathleen Mansfield in memory of Molly 🌈 The new Hazel? She's onto incredible things. All of the running, all of the exploring and of course all of the snuggles with her new forever family too. Hazel has such a beautiful spirit and we are honored to have played a small part in her journey so far. Shout outs to the IFAW Northern Dogs Project, Critter Cabs and the Lakeview Animal Hospital for being a part of Hazel's incredible team and of course to her foster home for offering her the chance to just be a dog. Happy new life Hazel and happy adoption day ❤️.

Merry Christmas ♡

Have yourself a Merry Little Christmas, let your heart be light. From now on your troubles will be out of sight. So have yourself a Merry Little Christmas night 🌙 Because of each of you who support our senior dogs in any sort of way, second chances exist. Bellies are full, dogs are cozy, and so many beautiful souls are safe. What a amazing gift you've given. The faces in this video. They've all been saved because you believe. Where there was once no hope at all, together you've all created a space where all old dogs are meant to be. Knowing they are loved, knowing they matter, knowing they belong. This is what finding happy looks like. So from each of our current foster dogs here at Happy's Place to each of you, Merry Christmas and thank you so very, very much. ♡♡♡

Christmas holidays

December 22-29 🎄 Time for a wee break. And with that, we are officially CLOSED to any already not in process adoptions and intakes to allow our volunteers some much needed down time as well as extra snuggles with our own furry family members too. If you're looking to adopt a senior dog yourself, we will have MANY new faces ready to find their own forevers on December 30th so be sure to check back lots that day. *and all days 😆 But since rescue never ever really stops- you can betcha we're still going to be sharing lots of stories & introducing you to so many new senior friends who've come into care this weekend, as well as some happy adoptions we've got on the go. And of course we've got our current foster dogs who will want to share updates about the fun they've been having while in foster care too. We've still got lots of people to thank, and of course maybe the odd surprise stuffed in as well. I mean it is Christmas after all ❤️. Our wee Sprout sent over this recent video update- of course showing off his newest cozy sweater- so perfect for those holiday parties. (And keeps the cold off of that little naked body while he participates in festivities too). Thanks to foster momma Vanessa for taking such great care of this little fellow. And if you need more Sprout updates- you can follow along on her socials at Girl With The Dogs where he often makes appearances too). Let the holidays begin ❤️.

Alice

To be loved. To be cared for. To belong. This is all any dog wants. We are honored to be that soft place for older dogs to fall when those around them have let them down. This is their chance to begin again. A fresh new chapter. Healing both mentally and physically. New adventures await. Happy's Place family, please meet Alice. Found as a stray and not reclaimed, Alice was transferred into our care via Ontario shelter recently and she's working hard on healing right now. Her spirit- it's a beautiful one. And although she's tired, her ability to love those around her unconditionally remains strong. Alice has been neglected for a long while. Spondylosis of the spine, unspayed, unkept nails which make it harder to walk, unwell, and skin/ears in terrible condition. Sadly, she's most likely been left behind. When our vet notes- this one she's got a lot going on. That's the stuff that makes my heart hurt. Because it's all fixable. Just previously, no one did... To have infected red & raw skin hurts. To be unwell for a long while, it is exhausting. And so now, she rests. And her fosters, they take it all at her pace. If you'd like to help us with Alice's care, etransfers can be sent to [email protected] Or via PayPal on our website at www.happysplace.ca. Alice is incredibly sweet, and she deserves the world. Welcome to Happy's Place ❤️.

Hazel is free after life spent on a chain outdoors for 9 whole years because you helped us to say yes to her rescue. Hazel loves the indoor life, all things cozy, and is an all around wonderful girl. She craves human attention and snuggles. She's house trained, well mannered, and travels well in the car. She's even great to stay alone while you work. Her vetting is complete and up to date. And now, she just needs a forever home. Read her entire bio at www.happysplace.ca and apply to adopt. Can't adopt? Share our post and leave her a comment instead. Hazel's forever after. ♥️ let's do this.

Together you did it! Our little Eadie is being dropped off to her surgery as we speak. This surgery is life changing & will have her running laps again soon in no time flat. A massive thank you to everyone (in the list below as well as those in the photo comments below)- because TOGETHER you've given Eadie the opportunity to be a typical happy puppy with many years of adventures and awesome times yet to come. Brenda Bazinet & Zoe Carol Fickling Joanne Langley Steven Athanasas Bill & Cathy Knapp Rebecca Poff in memory of Adam Sonia May in memory of Jim Nadalin Renee Hyde in memory of Archie Michael Carroll on behalf of Tara Carroll Shelley Forsyth Sandra Stapleton in memory of Peanut & Bella Alison Beer Laurie Judy Peleck Anne Wibberley Sharon Bentley Great Saint JAN Julespops Dog Walking Only 6 weeks ago Eadie was at risk of euthanasia in shelter due to her medical complexities. Now- on her way to better days and new chapters. And soon, a forever family awaits. Looking to adopt? You can look for Eadie's entire bio & posting here on our socials this Wednesday morning where she will begin accepting applications and be ready to go once properly healed (and had a recheck with her surgeon too). New beginnings for Eadie- it's a wonderful day.

Perspective is a curious thing isn't it? I'm so grateful for my parents who taught me growing up that anything is possible & most importantly- you should ALWAYS take a second look at things before conclusions are drawn. This knowledge has served me well in many areas over the years but honestly none so often as in rescue. Because sometimes we just need to look at this a little bit differently ♡. 10 year old Elvis (who originally came into an Ontario shelter as an unclaimed stray), arrived into our care quite urgently because he was suddenly considered unadoptable due to a heart murmur discovered post dental surgery & now faced a looming euthanasia deadline appraching at the speed of a freight train. And although this might sound dramatic- it's because it is. Let's roll this back a bit. This shelter- they did 100% do awesome things for Elvis. They even provided him with dental care to freshen up those pearly whites. But placed on the adoption floor, & no one coming for him (lack of space) combined with this new murmur (lack of resources) & red flags/end of the road suddenly appeared. In ONTARIO. Not other parts of the world. RIGHT HERE. We NEED to empty our Ontario shelters. Our dogs need OUR help. And Elvis, with his vetting updated at our own clinic as well as xrays for that heart- diagnosis- a mild murmur, NO Enlargement, NO meds needed. Completely typical for a dog his age. Oh- we did give him a little Librela injection for some mild arthritis (also typical for his age too). This is NOT a dog who should have been facing euthanasia. But the crisis due to lack of space for shelter pets across ONTARIO is real. Together, let's do better. And the dog- one happy, playful, zoomy hound. He also happened to he a highly sought after ADOPTABLE dog here ❤️ This is the story of how a dog named Elvis got his second chance. The dog who now lives among alpacas, doing all kinds of houndy things. The dog who because we were able to say YES, will have MANY happy

Happy's Place family, we need all hands on deck please as foster puppy Eadie needs YOU! To catch you up-A few weeks ago a little shelter pup was brought to my attention who was at risk of euthanasia due to lack of funds/resources (originally found as a stray). A 4 month old baby. And I could absolutely NOT let that happen. And so our senior rescue, we got a puppy. Eadie was seen today by London Emergency & Referral Hospital & we left there feeling really good! What we know now is that in a nut shell, from the outside- Eadie was born with some unique anatomy where both her anus & vulva are in the same hole rather than two separate spaces. You could actually compare this part to a cleft palette & it IS fixable. This would eliminate constant infections & painful ulcerated areas & greatly improve her quality of life. Before doing so, we MUST do a CT scan to determine what the inside parts look like, & where they all go/connect (urethra, bladder, female anatomy). Once we know that part, if more is needed, we can provide her with this reconstructive surgery too. This will also help us sort out her incontinence. Again improving quality of life. Her CT scan is booked for November 21st & a current estimate attached. The high end being $2861.00 is what I'm hoping to fundraise- anything extra will go towards the actual surgery itself. The Eadie I know, she's full of beans & zoomies. She's simply amazing & will someday (hopefully soon) make an incredible family member for someone out there. She's amazing with young children too. Want to become a part of Team Eadie? Etransfers accepted at [email protected] Or via PayPal on our website at www.happysplace.ca Please write "Team Eadie" in the memo. (Can't donate?- you can help by sharing our post) Together ❤️- it's how we do this.

Auction closing in under 5 hours! Auction ends TONIGHT AT 9PM!!! There's something for everyone! Questions: [email protected] Link to auction: https://mobilbid.co/url/hSQhQNC3

adoptable Jonesy

Our Jonesy continues to look for his best fit family. Life was not always easy for this very handsome fellow. Found originally as an unclaimed stray, we pulled him from a shelter euthanasia list on the exact day he was to be euthanized because there was just something about him. When Jonesy first arrived into our care he was incredibly sick. He has spent months becoming healthy again & has so much love to share. His favourite things in life? Belly rubs, snuggles, and loving you ❤️. Jonesy is a fan favourite at our vet clinic, and his fosters simply adore him too. He even made a recent appearance at one of our community events and of course, you guessed it- everyone LOVES Jonesy. Applications (and full bio details) available on our website at www.happysplace.ca. Will you be the one to say "I choose you".

Pierrot

Happy's Place family, meet the AMAZING Pierrot ♡♡♡. This fabulous chap arrived into care via Canadian shelter transfer after having been surrendered. He must have been a loved boy because he knows all the ins and outs around snuggles, sofa naps and travels well. Pierrot loves to run and play and loves his walks too. He's awesome with cats and dogs of all sizes and loves children as well. He's a healthy fellow who's been neutered and has a fresh set of pearly whites thanks to a recent dental. Oh yeah- one other thing about Pierrot- he's also blind (most likely from birth) He sure doesn't let it bother him and he hopes no one else will too. Pierrot navigates new environments with ease, and can do everything pretty independently with no worries at all. Pierrot is just as capable of any other dog and he's here to set things straight. Old dogs AND dogs with special needs- they ROCK! AVAILABLE SOON! Welcome to Happy's Place Pierrot!

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The story of Happy’s Place

Every person seems to have a story of a special dog they once knew. A favourite memory, an adorable head tilt, or the unique way your dog captured your heart forever. Almost five years ago now, we met a little blind senior rescue dog who needed a place to be loved and to live out his golden years for whatever time he had left. And even though he was down on his luck, that little tail never stopped wagging. And so, we named him Happy. Little did we know then, that this little senior would change the course of our entire lives and lead us to where we are today.

Happy showed us how to live life every single day to the fullest. He loved fiercely and let that happy shine so bright that every person who met him fell in love with him. Happy didn’t ever let anything slow him down. Even without his sight he enjoyed walks around town, hiking in the woods, and playing with squeaky toys. He loved dinner time and snuggling with his furry siblings and could always be found on the lap of a close by human. Throughout the year that he spent with us before crossing over the bridge, Happy went to the beach, met new friends, stopped at a bakery, picked out the biggest bone all on his own, let his fur flow in the wind during the best country breeze car rides, and he completely changed our lives. Happy showed us that love wasn’t something you could see, but rather something you felt with your heart. And as a family, we watched him blossom. Happy taught us many lessons, but most importantly, Happy taught us about the value of senior dogs and helped us to invent our second chance motto to always “find your happy”.

Happy’s legacy continues to live on through the other seniors we have loved throughout the last 5 years. Eddie, Pippin, Ruthie, Gladys, Fonzie, Clooney, Ernie, Lily, Fez, Stewart, Shirley, Wyler, Addy, McGregor, Frankie, Elvis, Matilda, and Pheobe, and in each of the beautiful senior dogs that we haven’t even met yet. Happy’s legacy will live on because of each person who also believes in the amazing love of a senior dog.