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Writer's pictureWhitney Espinoza

Farewell to Squirrel, a Founding Member of Moose Lodge Senior Pet Sanctuary

Updated: Oct 23





It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Squirrel, one of our beloved original senior residents and the alpha of Moose Lodge. Squirrel’s journey with us began in January 2023 when she came upstate from New York City with her companions, Memphis and Dickens, to help open the sanctuary. At 12 years old, Squirrel lived a full life, but her loss leaves an empty space in our hearts that can never be filled.


Squirrel’s Sudden Illness




For most of her time with us, Squirrel was healthy, full of life, and always ready to lead the pack. But just a week ago, her health began to decline rapidly. A sonogram revealed the devastating news that her body was filled with cancer. Despite our efforts to make her comfortable, her condition worsened quickly. On the morning of October 21st, Squirrel peacefully crossed the Rainbow Bridge, her eyes telling us it was time to say goodbye one last time.


Squirrel: The Alpha and Leader



Squirrel was unlike any other senior resident at Moose Lodge. As the alpha, she naturally took on the role of leader from the moment she arrived. She kept the other dogs in line, always the first to greet new arrivals—both human and canine. Her presence commanded respect, and she was the first to sound the alarm at any sign of intruders, whether it was deer, feral cats, or even a rare bear sighting.


Squirrel wasn’t just a resident at Moose Lodge—she ruled it. Her bark was more than just a sound; it was a rallying call for the other dogs to follow her lead. She had a natural authority and sense of purpose, guiding and protecting the entire pack.


A Special Place in Our Hearts




Squirrel had a favorite bed in our bedroom, a spot she cherished. Though the other dogs sometimes sneaked into her bed when she wasn’t around, she was always gentle about reclaiming her space. When she really wanted it back, her quiet command was enough, and the “offender” would surrender without hesitation.


But Squirrel was more than just a leader. She had a playful, kind nature, and a sense of humor that made her loved by all. She adored human attention and had a knack for making everyone laugh. Squirrel was both strong and gentle, a rare combination that made her truly unique among our senior pets.


Saying Goodbye


As hospice caretakers, our goal is to ensure that none of our senior pets suffer. We go as far as we can with the medical resources we have, but when their suffering becomes too much, we make the tough but compassionate choice to let them go peacefully. Losing Squirrel has been heartbreaking for all of us, but we find comfort knowing she’s no longer in pain and has been reunited with her old friends at the Rainbow Bridge.


Squirrel, you weren’t just a member of the pack—you were its heart, its soul, its guiding light. Rest easy, sweet girl. Until we meet again, say “hey” to Moosie for us. You’ll always be remembered and cherished here at Moose Lodge.


Donate in Squirrel’s Memory



To honor Squirrel’s memory, we invite you to donate to help care for the remaining senior residents at Moose Lodge. Your contributions allow us to continue providing love, medical care, and a safe haven for senior dogs like Squirrel. If you’d like to donate in her name, please visit our donation page or contact us directly. Your support means the world to us and to the dogs in our care. #SquirrelTheAlpha #SeniorDogSanctuary #MooseLodgeFamily #LeaderOfThePack #RainbowBridgeGoodbye #SeniorDogCare #DonateInSquirrelsMemory #GoneButNeverForgotten #LoveForSeniors #RunFreeAtTheRainbowBridge #SeniorDogs #Hospice #MooseLodgeSPS #MooseLodgeSeniorPetSanctuary #MLSPS #RainbowBridge

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