It's a sad fact that many senior pets don't get the love and comfort they deserve in their final days. Luckily, Steve Greig (@wolfgang2242 on Instagram) has set out to change just that. After the passing of his beloved dog, Wolfgang, Steve saw an opportunity. He drove to an animal shelter and looked to adopt "the oldest, least adoptable" dog they had.
For many pet owners, the thought of taking on a new pet after the passing of another is overwhelming. While Steve understood the sentiment, he looked at things a little differently. "When any pet dies, the pain can be so intense and heartbreaking that many people will try to avoid this again at all costs," he said, according to HuffPost. "But, if when a pet dies you allow another one to live in their place, it is incredibly powerful. You have both honored your fallen pet's life and given dignity to another that probably wouldn't have had that opportunity."
Steve understands that these dogs often require a ton of individualized care, and he's up to the challenge.
He not only stays on top of their medical needs but goes above and beyond to make them feel cared for.
Steve also has a lot of fun with them and shares that fun with over 700,000 Instagram followers. Take this photo of Doris, Melvin, Edna, Englebert, and Eeyore celebrating Labor Day, for example.
While he definitely has more dogs than any other type of animal, his household isn't limited to just dogs.
Steve houses over 12 senior animals — including chickens!
Steve's no stranger to having lots of animals. He grew up in a house of animal lovers and has always had multiple pets, so it's no wonder he has a house full of furry friends!
The animals all get along, too!
Everyone from Eeyore the Chihuahua to Bikini the Pig spends time hanging out together every day.
Each of the animals has a tremendous personality. Steve has noted that he feels senior animals are more set in their personalities, which makes them easier to care for in such large numbers.
He never stops his search for new animals.
And while he has different criteria for different animals, one spans them all: a genuine connection.
Steve hopes that by chronicling his life with senior animals, he will help others understand their value. He has inspired many to give chances to dogs who otherwise may not have had them.
By following Steve's account, you get a real feel for how much he understands and appreciates each and every animal.
Here's a picture of Englebert, who shows appreciation for his friends by sitting on them.
Imagine coordinating one of these pictures! Aside from his own animals, Steve partners with his local shelter to feature a senior dog who needs a home on his page. He's had tremendous luck with finding them homes.
While he also does the occasional partnership with a corporate sponsor, Steve isn't in it for the kickbacks. The most rewarding feeling for him is knowing these animals are loved and cared for.
Steve feels honored to open his Denver home to his friends, big and small.
He's learned to cater to all their quirks with ease.
These lovable animals have even made some famous friends along the way. Englebert is pictured above in a security sweater given to him by renowned author Jodi Picoult!
There's no question that no matter the season, the wolf gang will find a way to warm your heart!
These pictures are proof that regardless of species, these animals are living their best lives with Steve! What he has done is nothing short of amazing and inspirational to animal lovers everywhere. If you're interested in learning more about caring for senior dogs, Steve's Instagram is a great place to start!
