When a dog gets older and starts to slow down, it can be difficult to accept that they may not have much longer to live – all the more reason to make their golden years as enjoyable as possible.
Many pet owners create a “bucket list” for their elderly pets, ensuring that they have the opportunity to live life to the fullest before passing away. And, thanks to some kind strangers, one adorable dog just got her final dream to play in the snow one last time.
Marianna Wilson and Elijah Saltzgaber of Utah adored their dog Maggie, and when the 11-year-old dog was diagnosed with cancer in July, they were faced with the painful truth that their canine might not be with them for much longer.
However, in order to make Maggie’s final days as enjoyable as possible, they created a bucket list of exciting activities for her: “We decided to take her camping and paddleboarding to get her delightfully tired,” Marianna told FOX 13.
While Maggie had a good time during the summer, her owners were disappointed that she would likely never see another winter, her favorite season.
Maggie enjoyed playing in the snow, and having one last snow day was the last thing on her to-do list. Despite the fact that it appeared to be unachievable, the owners set out to make it happen.
They looked for other options because it was unlikely to snow anytime soon. They asked on Facebook if anyone had a shaved ice maker that they could borrow.
When someone suggested a skating rink, they realized that shavings from the ice might be utilized to make a snow pile.
They contacted Salt Lake County Ice Center, who were delighted to assist in realizing the old dog’s dream.
The staff used a zamboni to shave ice from the rink, and they even packed and delivered it to Maggie’s house so she could play with it in her backyard over the weekend.
They also erected a customized sign proclaiming “MAGGIE’S SNOW” on the fake snowbank.
Maggie “enjoyed it with her family,” according to a Facebook post from Salt Lake County Parks and Recreation, and photographs show the dog blissfully lounging in the snow.
Maggie, according to the post, has since died. Even though she didn’t live to see another winter, she was able to cross everything off her bucket list because to this lovely act of generosity.
Salt Lake County Parks and Recreation tweeted, “Sending our love and sympathies to Maggie’s family.” “We are grateful for the one-of-a-kind opportunity to provide her with a small piece of heaven on Earth.”
Maggie’s owners are also pleased that their dog made so many people happy in her final days.
Marianna told FOX 13 that seeing people from all walks of life come together for our puppy is great. “She touched us, and now she has the opportunity to touch a lot of other people. That’s the most effective approach to keep her memory alive.”
It’s never easy to lose a pet, but we’re grateful that Maggie was able to enjoy her final days to the fullest, including one last “snow day” courtesy to these thoughtful strangers.
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