Angel
Tucked away in Jupiter Farms is a place where pets who’ve lost their humans find love, care, and a promise: They will never be alone again. The Pet Cottage is a sanctuary for pets whose people have passed away, become disabled, or deployed. Once accepted into the program, these pets are promised a home for life.
Most of the 62 pets currently in their care live with Forever Guardians in the community. But some — those with medical or behavioral needs — stay at the sanctuary, including 14 dogs and one cat that live on-site.
A typical day begins well before sunrise. “At 3:40 a.m., GiGi, a senior Jack Russell with dementia and Cushing’s disease, let me know she was ready to go out and eat,” shares the founder. “So, up we go.”
Dashie, a pit bull mix, and Angel, a senior chihuahua, join GiGi on the early morning outing. The rest of the dogs remain sleeping in their cozy crates or small cottages on the property. After morning meditation and journaling, the founder starts her work for The Pet Cottage — writing grants and planning the day.
By 7 a.m., it’s light enough to begin the full morning routine. Elvis, a large shepherd mix, is let out into his favorite park. Peanut, Sugar Baby, and Tuffy are next, bounding with energy. Poppy and Auggie, a bonded pair of Cocker Spaniels awaiting placement, follow soon after.
Poop is scooped, tails are wagged, and fresh air is enjoyed before everyone heads back inside. Nine of the dogs eat the same food, while a few are on special diets. Medications are handed out, and the feeding routine stretches across the main house and the two additional cottages that house bonded pairs like Mister and Beary and Dottie and BJ.
By 8:30, staff and volunteers begin arriving. Chloe, the Volunteer Coordinator, joins the morning pack walk — Angel in her stroller and the rest on leashes. Facebook Live captures the fun for followers. Back inside, crates are cleaned and dogs are rotated depending on needs.
Sophie, a shy Maltipoo, eats breakfast in the guest room. “She was traumatized and isn’t comfortable with the other dogs, or many people — except me,” the founder says.
Throughout the morning, volunteers help with cleaning, organizing donations, giving baths, and of course showering the dogs with affection. The part-time assistant handles data tracking and veterinary records from one of the cottages, keeping dogs company while she works.
By mid-morning, the founder is in the office thanking donors, writing grants, and preparing for board meetings. Some days include vet visits — The Pet Cottage pays for all medical care for the life of each pet. In the afternoons, meet-and-greets are held with prospective Guardians, with guidance from Franzi, their professional dog trainer.
By 4 p.m., it’s dinner time. Dogs are fed, medications are given, and evening routines begin. The day winds down with playtime, last walks, and cuddles.
By 8:30, the house is quiet. Everyone is fed, safe, and resting.
“It’s a full, beautiful day,” the founder reflects. “Busy — and so satisfying. I love my life.”
Join our pack! To schedule a visit, call 561.818.5025. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube @thepetcottage. Learn more or donate at thepetcottage.org. Wendy Derhak is founder and executive director of The Pet Cottage – Forever Promise. Forever Home. 🐾
