Life is Better Rescue

  • Home
  • Life is Better Rescue

Life is Better Rescue Life is Better Rescue is a foster-based organization. We are not open to the public and meetings with our animals are by appointment only.
(531)

501 (c)(3) Non-profit Animal Rescue

It’s that time of year, when we hope for and often receive minor miracles. One such event happened this weekend, and we ...
23/12/2024

It’s that time of year, when we hope for and often receive minor miracles.

One such event happened this weekend, and we couldn’t wait to share the news.

Callie, our beautiful shelter dog that was pulled in our March transport (when she was still a puppy), had had very little interest, despite being house trained, healthy, and great with other dogs. She was featured on social media, and we did our best to raise awareness, but Callie’s forever remained elusive - especially when we thought she had found a permanent home, but that individual skipped multiple events and opportunities to make Callie a family member, meaning not only didn’t they commit, but they blocked Callie’s attempt at finding someone else.

However, there is always a plan in play, even when we don’t see it, and begin to lose hope.

Callie met a new person when her foster had to go out of town for Thanksgiving, and for them both, it was love at first sight.

Within a week of their introduction, paperwork was submitted, and this weekend, Callie became someone’s best buddy forever.

After signing the documents, Callie’s new dad looked at me with tears in his eyes and said “You know those moments in life, the ones where everything is perfect and your brain is so filled with joy that you can’t help but cry because you are so happy? Those times rarely happen, but for me? That moment is right now. I love this dog so much, I would die before I let her go. Would you take a photo, so I have a picture from this exact feeling?”

And with that, my friends, I present (with permission) Callie’s Holiday Miracle.

Today is  ! While this hasn’t been a record-breaking year for Life is Better Rescue, we have continued to fulfill our no...
10/12/2024

Today is ! While this hasn’t been a record-breaking year for Life is Better Rescue, we have continued to fulfill our now 14-year-old mission to connect companion animals with their people through adoption, advocate and enforce spay and neuter, and reduce unnecessary euthanasia, specifically within our overburdened shelter system.

We are proud of the work we do and grateful for the support of our community, which allows us to continue in the face of a challenging time in animal welfare, continued inflation, and overwhelming need.

Outside of hundreds of adoptions, perhaps our greatest achievement this year was a local TNR project. Over nearly three months, in partnership with another wonderful local rescue group, we trapped and vetted 43 cats from one location. This colony started with three cats and had exploded over just two years.

33 of the cats came to Life is Better for socialization or a safe place to await return to the colony during the trapping process. In total, 19 of the cats were returned to the colony fully vetted, and 24 (mostly younger kittens) were able to be socialized enough for adoption into appropriate homes.

Even better, with 43 cats spayed and neutered, we’ve made a dent (however small) in combating overpopulation by reducing unplanned litters and eliminated the suffering of those kittens that may have been born with the odds stacked against them. It took many resources to see this project through - funds, time, much shelter space, and patience, but we are proud of the outcome.

As our last two kittens of the year, transferred as three-week-old from a local municipal shelter, prep for their neuter surgeries tomorrow, we want to say thank you for your continued support of our little rescue.

Just as every animal counts, each one of you do, too. We couldn’t do this work without you. If you are so inclined to offer a donation, whether it is during this big day for the non-profit community in Colorado or any other time during the year, we thank you from the bottom of our hearts.

Our Colorado Gives profile can be found at: https://www.coloradogives.org/organization/LifeisBetterRescue/welcome

This golden-eyed gentleman is aptly named Copper, and he's another long-timer who has been waiting too long for his bett...
30/11/2024

This golden-eyed gentleman is aptly named Copper, and he's another long-timer who has been waiting too long for his better forever. At a year and change, Copper arrived to us undersocialized and terrified of the world.

Copper has been lucky enough to spend the last few months with a well-balanced pack and their dog trainer mom. He's learned so much, and is loving having room to run, fetch, and play. With time, he's recognized that humans can be awesome (and the source of food, snugs, and snacks) and dogs are "friends, not food." These days, he's found wrestling and running amuck with the dogs at his foster home.

Since we've had him with us for most of this year, we've also learned a lot about Copper. He would benefit most from a home with a calm and confident dog to show him the ropes. Copper is not a huge fan of children (let's be honest, they can be kind of terrifying), so either a kid-free home or one with teenagers or older would be ideal. As a young dog, he still has lots of energy and would thrive in an active household that can provide him with physical anad mental stimulation.

Copper is a solidly mixed breed dog; he does shed less than most and has wiry hair, so may have some doodle in there. Either way, he's a true diamond whose roughness is waning. If you're looking to adopt a dog who will blossom before your eyes, Copper is your guy.

His adoption fee is $350, which includes all of his vetting and microchip with registration. If you'd like to meet him and live in the Denver Metro, the first step is completing an adoption application at lifeisbetterrescue.org/pages/adoptable.html.

The beat goes on, and so does our Fan Gear Closeout Sale. Since inception in 2010, we've created a number of rescue bran...
29/11/2024

The beat goes on, and so does our Fan Gear Closeout Sale. Since inception in 2010, we've created a number of rescue branded merchandise featuring popular catch phrases like:

- Adopt Happiness
- The Snuggle is Real
- Love Rescued Me

We're clearing the racks of our past designs and have slashed our suggested donation prices, which means you can shop for yourself and your rescue-loving besties this holiday. Quantities and sizes are limited, so shop before the design you're looking at sells out forever. Don't miss our autographed copies of books by best-selling author and rescue advocate, W. Bruce Cameron, also included in the big sale.

We can offer local pick up in Lakewood, Colorado or domestic shipping based on weight (calculated at checkout). Shop at lifeisbetterrescue.org/pages/store.html.

We're cleaning out our closet (or in this case, storage shed) which means you are in for the fan gear sale of the decade...
29/11/2024

We're cleaning out our closet (or in this case, storage shed) which means you are in for the fan gear sale of the decade! Don't miss out on your very last chance to snag crowd favorite Life is Better Rescue branded shirts, sunnies, frisbees, bracelets, and more. You'll also find amazing deals on perfectly giftable (mostly autographed) copies of books by best-selling author, W. Bruce Cameron.

Quantities and sizes are limited, so head to our shop page now before you miss out. Local pick up (Lakewood, Colorado) is available if preferred, otherwise we ship with USPS; charges are based on weight and will be calculated at checkout.

Shop at lifeisbetterrescue.org/pages/store.html for your rescue-loving besties. Questions? Email [email protected].

The holidays are here, which means travel, gatherings of friends and family and, of course, tasty treats. The American V...
27/11/2024

The holidays are here, which means travel, gatherings of friends and family and, of course, tasty treats. The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) has put together a handy set of tips and reminders that will help keep your pets safe during all the hustle and bustle, including things you may not yet have considered. For example, whether you are traveling or will have visitors in and out of your home, make sure your pets are wearing current identification tags and their microchips are registered and up to date.

You can check out Thanksgiving and Winter Holiday Pet Safety Tips at: avma.org/resources-tools/pet-owners/petcare/thanksgiving-pet-safety.

Finally, don't forget that while we want our pets involved in all the holiday cheer, when it comes to enjoying our favorite foods, the least problematic option is to resist the urge to feed them from our tables. This is especially true for items not cooked by us in our own kitchens with known ingredients.

Hoping your holiday is full of warmth, cheer, and cuddles with your beloved pets.

Would you believe it if we told you that due to a series of unfortunate events, like the rescue universe being upside do...
26/11/2024

Would you believe it if we told you that due to a series of unfortunate events, like the rescue universe being upside down, missing adoption events, and approved adopters that ghost us, Callie has been waiting to find her forever family since March? It's the truth!

This absolute dreamboat gets along with the whole family, from kids and cats to dogs and adults of shapes and sizes. She's about a year old and we sure would love for her to find her forever home for the holidays. Callie is easy going, adaptable, housebroken, non-destructive, and ready to roll.

Her adoption fee is $350, which includes her vetting and microchip with registration. If you're in the Denver Metro and interested in adopting Callie, head to our website to complete an adoption application, which is the first step to setting up a meet and greet with this beauty.

Adoptables: lifeisbetterrescue.org/pages/adoptable.html

Join us as we bring our dogs and cats out for adoption Saturday, October 26th 2024 from 10am - 4pm! We have Arizona, Den...
23/10/2024

Join us as we bring our dogs and cats out for adoption Saturday, October 26th 2024 from 10am - 4pm! We have Arizona, Denver, and Callie ready for their forever home and some lovely cats looking for permanent laps.
We will be at our partner PetSmart at 5285 Wadsworth Bypass, Arvada, CO 80002.

You can apply online if a particular cutie strikes your fancy at lifeisbetterrescue.org or apply day of at the event!

Hi there, I’m Callie! I’m a 1-year-old mixed breed with a heart full of love and a second chance at life. Not too long a...
01/10/2024

Hi there, I’m Callie! I’m a 1-year-old mixed breed with a heart full of love and a second chance at life. Not too long ago, I was on death row, but some wonderful people saved me, and now I’m ready to find my forever home. All I needed was a little time and love outside the shelter to truly blossom.

I’ve been spayed, vaccinated, microchipped, and dewormed, so I’m all set for my new adventure. Right now, I’m learning all the important stuff—house training, crate training, and basic commands. I’m eager to please, and I just know with a little patience and guidance, I’ll make you proud.

I dream of being part of a family that will keep me busy and included in their everyday life. Whether it’s a walk in the park, playing in the backyard, or just curling up by your side after a long day, I’ll be there. I’ve got so much love to give, and all I need is a family to share it with.

If you’re looking for a sweet and loyal companion who’s ready to give her whole heart, I’m your girl. I’m waiting with open paws for the chance to meet you. Could you be my forever home?

Visit lifeisbetterrescue.org today and apply to adopt Callie!

Hi, I'm Romy! I may be pint-sized, but I’ve got a heart full of love and a personality to match! I’m a six-month-old gin...
30/09/2024

Hi, I'm Romy! I may be pint-sized, but I’ve got a heart full of love and a personality to match! I’m a six-month-old ginger tabby with a splash of white, and I’ve been on quite the journey to get where I am today.

I started my life as a solo kitten, saved in Arkansas before my friends at LIBR brought me here. My foster mom added me to a litter so I could snuggle up and grow with them. But here’s the thing—my new siblings started growing a lot faster than me. I wasn’t getting my fair share of the snacks, and eventually, I lost interest in eating altogether. I ended up needing some extra TLC for what the humans call “failure to thrive.” It was a tough road, but I’ve come a long way since those early days!

Now, after almost four months in foster care, I’m ready to find my forever family. I may always be a petite little lady, but I like to think I’m purr-fect just the way I am. Sometimes I still need a bit of encouragement to eat, so I’m looking for a family who understands that I can be a little high maintenance. But trust me, I’m worth it! I’m playful, loving, and my litter box skills are on point. Plus, I’ve got this adorable little “chirp” sound instead of a meow that will melt your heart.

When I’m not snuggling or chasing toys, you’ll find me supervising all the important household tasks—like making dinner, cleaning dishes, and keeping an eye on the neighborhood from the window. Bird and mouse videos are a personal favorite, and there’s nothing better than a sunny spot for napping. My foster home also has a dog and two older cats, and while they’re not always fans of my kitten energy, I love them just the same!

I’m up to date on all my vaccines, including rabies, I’m spayed, microchipped, FeLV-negative, and parasite-free. If you’re looking for a sweet, quirky, and endlessly entertaining companion, I’m your girl!

Visit lifeisbetterrescue.org today and apply to adopt Romy!

Hi, I’m Arizona, and yes, I’m named after the Grand Canyon state because, much like it, I’m majestic, a little rugged, a...
29/09/2024

Hi, I’m Arizona, and yes, I’m named after the Grand Canyon state because, much like it, I’m majestic, a little rugged, and sometimes hard to leave once you’ve gotten to know me.

Here’s what you need to know about me: I love my foster dad, the dog park is basically my social club, and lounging in the backyard is my idea of a good time. I’m housebroken (my foster dad will vouch for that), I don’t mind hanging out in a crate when needed, and car rides? I’m a pro. Just roll the window down and let me feel the breeze!

Now, full disclosure—I'm an independent Akita mix, which means I don’t need you to cling to me 24/7, but don’t be surprised if I give you that “where’s my person?” look after we bond. Speaking of bonding, I’ve been with my foster dad for a while, and leaving him? Yeah, that’s gonna be tough. I might pace, howl a bit, and give you puppy eyes to let me outside until I’m comfy in my new digs. But, with some patience and understanding, I’ll settle in and become your shadow around the house. You’ll love it. Trust me.

I’m great with other respectful dogs, especially at the park. I haven’t lived with any long-term, but I did pretty well with a temporary foster dog, so I think I’d be cool with a canine buddy in the right setting.

One more thing: I’ve got a bit of a thing for the outdoors, and I think I was raised to enjoy both indoor and outdoor life. So, if you’ve got a backyard, I’ll be in heaven. I’m not saying I’ll spend all my time outside, but a little sunbathing never hurt anyone, right?

So, if you’re looking for a loyal, slightly quirky, outdoor-loving companion who needs a bit of patience at first, I’m your girl! Let’s meet up and see if we’re a match!

Visit lifeisbetterrescue.org today and apply to adopt Arizona!

Coffee lovers unite! The team at Life is Better Rescue is all fueled up and pumped to share that we've officially joined...
17/09/2024

Coffee lovers unite! The team at Life is Better Rescue is all fueled up and pumped to share that we've officially joined the Grounds & Hounds Coffee Co. Grounds Crew. Grounds & Hounds offers premium coffee blends and canine-inspired merchandise that gives back to rescues like ours with each purchase.

As a special treat for our supporters, you can head to the Grounds & Hounds website and use the code LifeIsBetter for 15% off your purchase. By entering our code, Life is Better Rescue will receive 10% on all new and future orders!

Go forth and caffeinate Grounds & Hounds Coffee Co.!

Lucky Friday the 13th: Adopt a Pet and Change Your Life!Forget the old superstitions—Friday the 13th is a day to make yo...
13/09/2024

Lucky Friday the 13th: Adopt a Pet and Change Your Life!

Forget the old superstitions—Friday the 13th is a day to make your own luck, and what better way than by adopting a furry friend?

Why Adopt on Friday the 13th?
Break the Superstition: Instead of fearing bad luck, turn this day into one of joy and new beginnings by welcoming a pet into your home. You'll be giving them the fresh start they deserve and creating a new tradition.

Instant Good Fortune: Bringing a pet into your life is like having your very own four-legged good luck charm. Pets bring endless love, laughter, and positive energy—everything you need to make your days brighter.

Save a Life: By adopting from a shelter, you’re not only gaining a best friend, but you’re also giving a homeless pet a second chance. That’s good karma all around!

Black Cats Deserve Love Too: Speaking of superstitions, black cats often get a bad rap, but they’re just as loving and playful as any other cat. If you're considering adopting, why not bring home one of these little "panthers"? You might find that they bring more joy and companionship than you ever expected.

Start Your Lucky Streak
On this Friday the 13th, make it a day to remember by adopting a pet and welcoming unconditional love into your life. You’ll not only be changing their life—but yours, too!

Are you ready to find your lucky charm? Visit your local shelter and let the magic begin.

Why Is My Dog Staring at Me?If your dog stares at you, it's not just random behavior—dogs use their gaze to communicate....
11/09/2024

Why Is My Dog Staring at Me?
If your dog stares at you, it's not just random behavior—dogs use their gaze to communicate. Here’s what they might be trying to say:

1. Dogs often stare at their humans to express affection. This loving gaze triggers the release of oxytocin, known as the "bonding hormone," for both you and your dog.

2. Your dog might be staring because they want something—food, a walk, or simply your attention. They've learned that staring often gets a response from their human.

3. Dogs look to their owners for direction, especially in uncertain situations. A stare might mean they’re waiting for you to guide them or signal what to do next.

4. Sometimes, dogs stare simply because they want affection or attention. It’s their way of saying, “Pay attention to me!” They might want a pet, a cuddle, or for you to engage with them.

5. Dogs are natural observers. They stare to learn your habits and predict your next actions, like whether you’re about to grab the leash for a walk or head to the kitchen.

6. Dogs may stare if they’re confused or concerned about something in their environment or your behavior. They’re trying to figure out what’s going on.

When to Be Concerned
In most cases, a dog’s stare is harmless. However, if it's paired with unusual behaviors like growling or pacing, it might indicate anxiety, discomfort, or a health issue, and you should consult a vet or trainer.

Overall, your dog’s stare is a way for them to communicate, whether it’s love, a request, or curiosity. Paying attention to their cues can help strengthen your bond and make your communication even clearer.

Why Do Cats Purr?Cats are fascinating creatures, and one of the most mysterious and soothing behaviors they exhibit is p...
10/09/2024

Why Do Cats Purr?

Cats are fascinating creatures, and one of the most mysterious and soothing behaviors they exhibit is purring. But why exactly do they purr? While it might seem like a simple expression of happiness, purring is much more complex and serves a variety of purposes in a cat’s life.

1. Contentment and Comfort
The most common reason cats purr is to show contentment. You’ll often hear them purring when they're being petted, curled up in a cozy spot, or interacting with their favorite humans. This is their way of expressing pleasure and relaxation. It’s a cat’s version of a smile!

2. Self-Healing
Surprisingly, cats also purr when they are injured or feeling unwell. Research suggests that the vibrations created by purring have healing properties. These low-frequency vibrations (between 25 and 150 Hertz) can promote the healing of bones, reduce pain and inflammation, and even repair muscles. So, when a cat is hurt or stressed, they may purr to help calm and heal themselves.

3. Communication with Humans
Cats sometimes purr to get their human’s attention. If they’re hungry or want affection, their purring may become more persistent, often accompanied by other behaviors like rubbing against you. This “solicitation purring” tends to have a slightly higher pitch and can be very effective at drawing attention.

4. Bonding with Kittens
Mother cats purr when they are with their newborn kittens, creating a soothing environment. Kittens are born blind and deaf, but they can feel the vibrations of their mother's purring, which helps them feel safe and bond with her. In turn, kittens start to purr at a very young age, communicating back to their mother and siblings.

5. Stress Relief
Cats might purr when they’re in stressful or unfamiliar situations. A trip to the vet, for instance, might trigger purring as a way for the cat to soothe itself. This form of purring is a coping mechanism to help reduce anxiety and keep calm.

The Magic of Purring
While purring is often associated with happiness, it's a versatile and fascinating behavior with emotional and physical benefits. Whether your cat is purring because they're content or trying to heal, it’s their way of communicating both with themselves and with you. Understanding the different reasons behind a cat's purr can help deepen your bond with your feline friend.

I’m Copper, the one and only wirehaired mystery mix—maybe a Doodle, maybe not, but definitely a dog! I think. I come wit...
30/08/2024

I’m Copper, the one and only wirehaired mystery mix—maybe a Doodle, maybe not, but definitely a dog! I think.
I come with a stunning pair of golden eyes that could make even the toughest human melt. At a year and a half old, I’ve seen some things, man… and by “things,” I mean I’ve been a little, um, nervous about this big ol' world.

When I first joined the rescue life, I was the king of “pancaking.” Yup, you’d see me just flop right down and refuse to budge. New people? Copper Pancake. New dogs? Copper Pancake. New places? You guessed it, Copper Pancake. But don’t worry, I’ve been working on a waffle recipe. Just kidding, I've been working on my bravery, one tail wag at a time!

It started with a pretty awesome foster human who helped me chill out and start trusting these strange creatures called “people.” I’m still a little shy when I first meet someone new, but I no longer look for the nearest griddle.

Thanks to living with the coolest pack every I’ve even learned that playing with other dogs could actually be fun!

So, here’s the deal: I’m on the lookout for a new home with a cool, calm dog buddy who can help me keep leveling up in the confidence department. I’m also hoping to find some patient humans who can keep helping me explore the world with lots of positive vibes, treats (I’m a sucker for treats), and a steady routine.

Oh, and just so you know, I’m neutered (no puppies for me!), fully vaccinated (shots? Check!), treated for parasites (gross, I know), heartworm negative (healthy as a horse… or a dog), and microchipped (you’ll never lose me).

So, what do you say? Ready to be the peanut butter to my jelly? The yin to my yang? The human to my dog? Pop over to LifeIsBetterRescue.org and apply to be my forever friend today!

Hey there, hoomans!I’m Livvy, the fabulous and fancy 2-year-old domestic short hair tuxedo cat with a story that’s juici...
30/08/2024

Hey there, hoomans!

I’m Livvy, the fabulous and fancy 2-year-old domestic short hair tuxedo cat with a story that’s juicier than a can of tuna. Once upon a time, I was on death row—yes, you heard that right, DEATH ROW! But don’t worry, I was wrongly accused and I managed to pull off the great escape! Now I’m living it up at our partner PetSmart located at 160 Wadsworth Blvd, Lakewood, CO 80226. You can come visit me anytime; I’m here signing pawtographs. You can even apply to adopt me on site if you decide you can't pawssibly live without me.

Let’s get the important stuff out of the way: I’m spayed (no kittens in my future, thank you very much), vaccinated (I’m basically invincible), microchipped (so you can’t lose me), dewormed (eww, worms), and I’ve had an anti-parasitic treatment (because parasites are just rude). I’m not saying I’m purrfect, but let’s be real… I’m pretty darn close.

So, what do you say? Are you ready to be the lucky human who gets to take me home? Come on down to PetSmart and let’s make this happen. I promise, you won’t regret it!

Hi there, I’m Copper! 🐾I’m a wire-haired mixed breed (maybe a Doodle, but honestly, I don't remember my parents) with th...
29/08/2024

Hi there, I’m Copper! 🐾

I’m a wire-haired mixed breed (maybe a Doodle, but honestly, I don't remember my parents) with the most mesmerizing golden eyes you’ll ever see. I’m about a year and a half old, and I’m looking for a forever home that understands I’m a work in progress—but I promise I’m worth it!

When I first came into rescue, the world was a pretty scary place for me. I was so under socialized that I would often just freeze up and "pancake" when faced with new situations. But guess what? My foster family helped me feel safe and secure and I started to trust the humans around me. The truth is, I’m still a bit shy with new people, but with a little time and patience, I warm up.

My biggest challenge was other dogs—I was pretty terrified of them! I would bark, growl, and just get myself all worked up. But things have changed! I moved in with a foster who’s a trainer and lives with the coolest dog pack. They’ve taught me how to “dog” properly and now I actually enjoy playing with other dogs! I'm as surprised by this as you are, but it's true!

What I really need in my new home is a calm, confident dog friend to show me the ropes and help me keep growing. I also need humans who are patient, understanding, and willing to help me continue to explore this big, wide world. I’m still learning, but with positive reinforcement and a steady routine, I know I can be the best companion you’ve ever had.

Oh, and in case you’re wondering—I’m neutered, fully vaccinated, treated for parasites, heartworm negative, and microchipped.

Are you my patient and loving forever friend? Visit lifeisbetterrescue.org today and apply to adopt me!

Address

CO

Alerts

Be the first to know and let us send you an email when Life is Better Rescue posts news and promotions. Your email address will not be used for any other purpose, and you can unsubscribe at any time.

Contact The Business

Send a message to Life is Better Rescue:

Videos

Shortcuts

  • Address
  • Telephone
  • Alerts
  • Contact The Business
  • Videos
  • Claim ownership or report listing
  • Want your business to be the top-listed Pet Store/pet Service?

Share