We live in a fast-moving world filled with distractions, but this sadly leaves some members of our society without the attention and care they need. Cricket and her elderly guardian suffered as a result of neglect and the outcome was heartbreaking for both.

Cricket and two other dogs were surrendered to a shelter because their guardian needed to be moved to a care facility. Not only did she lose her independence, but she also lost her companions. For senior animals, their chances of being adopted are so much slimmer than their younger counterparts.

Our Justice for Animals Campaign and Hope Animal Sanctuary frequently receive calls for assistance for displaced senior dogs. We do as much as we can, but we can only do so much as space at our sanctuary and foster homes allows.

Justice for Animals’ Senior Campaigner Doll Stanley works with grassroots organizations and local shelters to help these animals, and that’s how she came to find Cricket. While it was hoped that Cricket would get a second chance, upon seeing her all of our hopes for this little girl were dashed. Her overgrown nails could be trimmed, and she could live with a blind eye, but she could not be healed of multiple mammary tumors and a grapefruit-sized hernia holding her intestines.

We imagine Cricket had suffered like this for months, if not longer, and no one intervened because no one looked in on her guardian, who also suffered.

As tragic as Cricket’s life was when it ended, we are thankful to everyone who takes time out of their busy lives to help others and care for animals in need — and also to those who support our work.

Find more ways to help by visiting our Justice for Animals campaign and Hope Animal Sanctuary.