And while there are nine felines in residence, James’ Schipperke Jackie clearly presides over the home, with bright eyes gleaming and a shiny medallion dangling from his collar to honor St. Francis, the patron saint of animals. “It’s all about the love,” said James as he patted Jackie’s head.
A hip replacement surgery at 76 set off a series of setbacks and deteriorating health. When he was unexpectedly admitted to the hospital after a checkup, James pleaded to be let go so he could return home to care for his animals. “They are great company and comfort to me,” said James.
Now 80, James spends most days at his Lehigh Acres home. Knowing Hope is there for him, and his pets, is also a comfort to James.
“I can’t believe how much Hope has helped me. Their staff are such good people,” said James. “They’ve been with me since day one helping me through this trip I’m taking.”
Hope’s community partnerships with organizations such as Bayshore Animal Hospital and Gulf Coast Humane Society help people who, like James, want to keep their animals nearby, but need a hand caring for them.
In addition to providing care for animals, Hope for Pets will also rehome pets if necessary.
“We want to help be supportive to people at the end of life, and people’s pets provide comfort to them right until the end,” said Jennifer Galloway, Gulf Coast Humane Society’s executive director. “Hope does an amazing job finding placements for pets,” she said, “We sometimes help them with adoptions, or if they see an animal in need of medical care, we get them taken care of at the clinic.”
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