NewsNews5 Originals

Actions

Community outreach helps dying dog “walk” one more time

Posted at 9:44 PM, Jul 23, 2018
and last updated 2018-08-29 15:03:58-04

(COLORADO SPRINGS) – An outpouring amount of love and compassion from the community has given one 14-year-old dying dog the ability to go on walks again.

It was about a week ago when the Siminario family found out their long-time lovable Labrador, by the name of Mattie, was terminally ill; diagnosed with cancer.

“She could go in 8 weeks or she could go tomorrow,” commented Max Siminario.

The dog had been in the family for 11 years. That was 11 years filled with runs, walks, carpools, and belly rubs. But now she’s barely able to walk.

“She’s getting old, she has arthritis, and she doesn’t want to go on walks anymore,” said Mindy Siminario.

Knowing the end was fast approaching, but with no way to take Mattie on a walk, the family reached out on Facebook, asking to borrow a bike trailer.

“I thought it would be good to take her out on a run or, I guess, a ride,” Mindy continued.

Within a matter of hours the family had received hundreds of comments, reactions, and offers of help.

“The response was pretty overwhelming,” Mindy stated.

Once received, they loaded the donated trailer with Mattie’s bed and went for a ride.

“She had a smile on her face the entire time,” said Max.

“The wind blowing in her face and all that,” Mindy finished.

Now, the plan is to ride whenever possible, as often as possible. All in an attempt to make Mattie’s last days, the best they can be.