Retiree adopts senior shelter dogs to give them love in their golden years

Steve Greig’s journey into senior dog adoption began with a heartbreak in 2012.

When his beloved companion, Wolfgang, a miniature pinscher, passed away at the age of 12 after being hit by a car, Steve was devastated.

The grief lingered for months, and he yearned for something positive to emerge from the pain.

Raised in a family of animal lovers in a small town in New Mexico, Steve’s parents instilled in him the importance of adopting shelter dogs.

Seeking solace and a way to honor Wolfgang’s memory, Steve decided to visit the local shelter to adopt the oldest dog in need.

Little did he know that this decision would reshape his life.

At the shelter, a 12-year-old Chihuahua named Eeyore captured Steve’s heart.

Despite Eeyore’s bad knees and a heart murmur, the joy radiating from the senior dog was palpable.

Steve felt an instant connection, a sense that he could help this dog live a fulfilling life.

With one ear pointing down and the other sticking up, Eeyore became the first senior animal that Steve welcomed into his home.

From then on, Steve realized that senior dog adoption and adopting animals with disabilities was his calling.

It was a way to honor Wolfgang’s memory and, more importantly, a healing method for Steve himself.

Eeyore’s presence was profound, inspiring Steve to continue adopting senior animals.

His motley family expanded to include a variety of characters—a pig named Bikini, a rabbit, two ducks, four chickens, and even a turkey named Tofu who had a penchant for Madonna tunes.

After years of adopting senior animals, Steve’s family grew to include 11 dogs in their twilight years, Good Morning America reports.

The bond between them, forged through shared experiences and the joys of companionship, became the cornerstone of Steve’s life.

To share these heartwarming stories, Steve began regularly updating his dogs’ adventures on an Instagram page, gaining over a million followers and a platform to spread the message of senior dog adoption.

Reflecting on his unique family dynamic, Steve acknowledges the unexpected blessings of joy, fame, and friendship that have come his way.

The pain of Wolfgang’s loss has transformed into a purposeful mission, bringing diverse and heartwarming experiences into his life.

“It’s just been an amazing experience. I did it originally because I was in pain from a dog that had passed away,” he shared. “So I did it to kind of relieve that pain and to give the dog that had passed away to give his life and, you know, a meaning. But it’s just taken on a whole new life of its own.”

For Steve, senior dog adoption isn’t just about providing a home; it’s about embracing the best version of each animal.

He encourages others to consider adopting seniors, emphasizing the ease and fulfillment of caring for older dogs.

Steve believes that, like people, senior dogs are the best versions of themselves when they reach a certain age, offering a unique and rewarding companionship.

In addition to the emotional rewards, Steve addresses the practical aspects of adopting senior animals.

While all pets, regardless of age, may face health challenges, older dogs often require less maintenance than their younger counterparts.

Senior dogs are content with short walks and simply want to be with their owners, making them ideal companions for individuals with varying lifestyles.

For those hesitant about adopting a senior pet, Steve suggests exploring the option of fostering.

Many shelters need fosters, and they often cover the associated costs.

“If someone loves older dogs but worries about the responsibility, they should foster. Most shelters need fosters, and they’ll cover the costs. I get so many messages on Instagram from people who adopted senior dogs and are so glad they did. I’ve never received a negative response about it,” he said.

Steve shares that he receives numerous positive messages from people who have adopted senior dogs, highlighting the enriching experiences and deep connections formed through the process.

In the end, Steve Greig’s journey from grief to joy is an inspiring testament to the transformative power of senior dog adoption.

His suburban Colorado home once filled with sorrow, now resonates with the joyous barks and loving presence of a motley crew of senior animals, each contributing their unique hues to the colorful canvas of Steve’s life.

Follow Steve’s senior dog adoption journey on Instagram and watch the video below: