Joyce had become almost unresponsive. People came and went from her room, and she barely noticed. In her final days of life at the memory care facility in Littleton, she laid quietly in her room. Two working dogs arrived. Looch first, whose name means ray of light and Zarya second, whose name represents the light of the dawn.
Having had huskies her whole life, she brightened as the furry friends approached. The dogs knew what to do. They immediately delivered peace, love, comfort, and kisses to Joyce. When no one else was able to get through, they could.
Bringing tears to the eyes of everyone in the room, this moment will live forever in the memories of her loved ones. It is a priceless and beautiful thing to behold and only something an animal could deliver.
Looch and Zarya regularly do therapy work at memory care centers around the area. They also perform herding duties at their home in Morrison. Multi-talented, Looch, still in training, works sheep, goats, and sometimes, chickens. “He gets a little rough with the chickens,” shares his owner, Alla, “The chickens don’t like this too much.” With a rich accent and charismatic personality, she shares proudly about her dogs.
Alla and her incredible dogs have attended our pet food pantry at Mountain Resource Center in Conifer since 2023. At 85 years old, and walking with a cane, Alla continues to be a pillar in her community. She often picks up pet food for other families who are unable to leave their homes. “I and everyone else who loves animals appreciate what Colorado Pet Pantry is doing,” Alla says.
To play a minor part in the existence of this amazing family is an honor. To have the ability to support those who live on a fixed income in a world with ever-rising costs is not just a privilege, it’s our duty and one of the main reasons Colorado Pet Pantry exists.
As Alla continues to be a stable resource for her mountain community, we will continue to be a stable resource for Colorado pet families who rely on our services.
Stability and sustainability for a nonprofit is no easy feat. As the need for pet food assistance grows, we remain committed to planting our roots deep into the social fabric of Colorado. One of the best ways for nonprofits to become more sustainable is through monthly gifts. These consistent and reliable donations allow us to plan ahead, properly budget, and grow.
From now through December 31st, a group of dedicated supporters have offered Colorado Pet Pantry a $20,000 dollar-for-dollar match available to any new monthly donations, matched for the next 12 months.
During the holiday season, we find ourselves reflecting on what is truly important. What Alla and her dogs do for their community is essential and embodies the true essence of what it means to be contributing members of society. When you give to Colorado Pet Pantry, you are directly supporting dogs like Looch and Zarya, as they continue to spread light and peace in their community.
