89-Year-Old Lady Knits Hundreds Of Blankets And Sweaters For Shelter Dogs, And It's Adorable

Jan 16, 2019

Volunteering is something most of us would love to do, but we often struggle to find the time with work, family and other responsibilities. When people retire, however, they're often faced with so much free time that they aren't sure what to do with it. For one 89-year-old woman, shelter dogs and a passion for knitting have led to an incredible donation and act of selflessness that has the internet in tears.

I Heart Dogs was the first to report the story of Maisie, a senior citizen from the United Kingdom who made a mind-blowing donation to a local shelter. The Dogs Trust Basildon rescue in Essex, England, focuses on rehoming dogs who have been turned in by their old families. People give up their dogs for a variety of reasons; a new baby may not leave enough time for the pup, an owner might pass away or some people discover that their dog has too much energy or is too high-maintenance for their lifestyle.

Whatever the reason, Dog Trust is committed to providing these pups with a loving atmosphere and tender care until they're matched with their fur-ever homes. Maisie did an interview with I Heart Dogs to explain the motivation behind her contribution. She has hand-knitted over 450 sweaters to swaddle and comfort the sweet dogs at the shelter as they wait for their new owners to find them.

"I love knitting and I love dogs, so this combines both wonderfully!" Maisie said. You can easily envision the happiness in her voice as she explains the wonderful process of her generosity. "It takes me three days to knit a blanket and one day to knit a doggy coat. It keeps me busy and often I like to knit whilst watching television. I’m delighted to be helping the four-legged residents at the center in some way."

Maisie regularly brings in new donations to the shelter according to the rescue's manager, Lisa Cooper. "With the chill of the Winter months really starting to creep up on us I know our dogs are very pleased to put the items to good use - and love feeling extra cozy!”

Maisie's family chips in and helps her make her donations by driving her to the shelter. She's made three donations in a year, each time toting dozens of sweaters and cozy blankets for the dogs. Dogs Trust frequently updates their Instagram (@dogstrust) with photos of th various adoptables looking paws-itively adorable in their cozy sweaters or snuggled up nice and warm under a wool blanket.

While they may not have a permanent home just yet, Maisie's kindness has ensured that the dogs at Dogs Trust feel loved and safe. Would you like to make a difference in the lives of shelter dogs too? It's easier than you think! Here are a few practical ways you can contribute.

Instead of throwing out that frayed bath towel or old bedsheets, pack them up and bring them to your local animal shelter. These can be used as beds for dogs so they don't sleep on cold concrete floors. Many puppies and kittens also find the softness of a towel or blanket comforting in the absence of their mothers and littermates.

Old bowls and cleaning products can save money for shelters! Windex, paper towels and other types of pet-friendly cleaner are always welcomed and appreciated. Bowls can give a meal to an animal in need, and you won't lose anything by turning in half of the old items you don't use.

You can bond with some nice dogs and get them some exercise as a volunteer dog walker. The extra socialization does wonders for dogs who spend most of their days cooped up in cages, and you may find that spending quality time with the dogs is emotionally beneficial to you as well. You can also offer to bathe dogs or lend a helping hand at an upcoming adoption event. A few hours of your time could lead to a lifetime of happiness for an adoptable pet.

If you have a knack for knitting like Maisie, you can make some sweaters for dogs to wear during the colder months. Bandanas, collars or other adorable accessories that help a pet stand-out to potential owners make a huge difference. The dogs appear more approachable when they're dressed up in something cute, so don't be afraid to go all-out and use some funky fabrics or funny patterns that will catch people's eyes.

Have you rescued a shelter dog before? Tell us how they've changed your life in the comments. Your story may inspire someone else to reach out and start helping the pups still waiting for their happy endings! Let us spread awareness on this topic!