Stacey Herrick, a hospice foster carer, runs Happy Tails Rescue Retirement Home, a nonprofit senior dog rescue and hospice in Pennsylvania, dedicated to providing care for older dogs. Herrick’s love for dogs began in 2001, when she adopted a puppy named Emma after being diagnosed with a chronic pain disease. As Emma and her other dogs aged, Herrick noticed a lack of services catering specifically to senior dogs, inspiring her to create the rescue retirement home. In 2020, Daisy, a terminally ill dog diagnosed with Immune-Mediated Polyarthropathy, came into Herrick’s care after her owner passed away.
Despite her terminal illness, Daisy was provided with love, hope, and care by Herrick. Through a variety of treatments and interventions, Herrick extended Daisy’s life and ensured her comfort and happiness. Daisy enjoyed playing with toys, catching treats, and had a positive spirit up until two days before her passing. Herrick observed a change in Daisy’s breathing and demeanor which indicated that it was time to say goodbye. Herrick captured Daisy’s final moments in a heartfelt video that she shared on TikTok to pay tribute to her beloved dog.
The video of Daisy’s passing resonated with viewers and garnered a significant amount of views on TikTok. Herrick’s intention behind sharing the video was not only to remember Daisy’s strength and spirit but also to showcase the importance of places like Happy Tails Rescue Retirement Home in providing a safe and comfortable environment for senior dogs in their final stages. Many of the dogs at the facility were rescued from shelters where they faced euthanasia due to age or illness, and Herrick’s mission is to offer them a chance to live well and pass away peacefully.
The story of Daisy and Herrick’s dedication to caring for her highlights the impact that hospice foster carers can have on terminally ill dogs. Herrick’s commitment to providing love, support, and specialized care to senior dogs like Daisy is a testament to the compassion and selflessness required in this role. Through the Happy Tails Rescue Retirement Home, Herrick aims to ensure that senior dogs receive the care and attention they deserve in their final days, offering them a dignified and peaceful transition. Daisy’s journey serves as a poignant reminder of the bond between humans and animals and the profound impact that a loving home can have on a dog’s wellbeing, even in their final moments.
