Ruby’s Story

Sadly, we are all familiar with the heartbreaking stories of animal abandonment, neglect, and abuse. Some are left behind when people move, left to starve or fend for themselves. Some are left abandoned in the home, others left chained outside; some are even left in a box on the side of the road. Some are left at shelters, dumped out of cars on the road, left confused at a park or running around on the street; the list can go on and on. 

But sometimes the heartbreak takes a different form, and Paws Give Me Purpose was there to catch this beautiful soul when she lost everything and everyone she loved. 

Meet Ruby! This beautiful 16-year-old girl was a beloved family member her entire life until one day she lost the only family she has ever known to cancer. Not once, but twice. Ruby had two very loving mommies who sadly both passed away from cancer just 3 weeks apart.

Although she was loved and well taken care for most of her life, her family members’ illness did take a toll on their ability to continue to care for Ruby. 

Knowing their lives were going to be cut short, Ruby’s family asked their neighbor to promise to make sure Ruby was safe and had someone to love upon their passing.

Sadly that day came and Ruby was alone and very confused. The neighbor kept her promise and reached out to find Ruby a safe place to spend her golden years where she would be cared for, loved, and spoiled the rest of her life like she deserves. 

Ruby arrived this past Saturday, she is very sweet, a bit shy, and we can clearly see her sadness. She is confused about where she is, and is taking time to decompress and acclimate to her new surroundings and schedule. 

We do know that in addition to being almost blind, Ruby does have a heart murmur, some dental and tummy issues. Once she’s a bit more settled, she will be seeing our Veterinarian to address her medical needs and we will run a full senior blood panel; stay tuned for that update. 

Although it is not known how much dogs really understand about death, it’s clear that dogs can become extremely depressed after a companion dies whether it be human or canine. 

Ruby is clearly in mourning, she often paces around, spends time alone, not really wanting to interact much, sleeping often with a seriously decreased appetite. There is a huge void in her life and she needs help dealing with her loss, and we are here to help her through it. 

Ruby needs some time to mourn, and we will keep encouraging her to get up to eat, play and get outside for some fresh air. With a little extra love and attention we will get her engaged in the world again. 

Paws Give Me Purpose will give this beautiful soul her best life daily with unconditional love for the rest of her life.

Please help us with Ruby’s care.

PayPal: https://www.paypal.me/pawsgivemepurposeinc

Venmo: @PAWSGIVEMEPURPOSE-INC

If anyone is interested in sponsoring this beautiful little girl or any of our other Sanctuary residents, please head over to: