Inspired By Her Rescue Pup, Woman Creates a Sanctuary for Hundreds of Senior Dogs
Doreen Jakubcak created Marty's Place to give dogs love in their golden years
Back in December 2009, Doreen Jakubcak felt her heartstrings tug as she read an email about a senior dog named Marty. No one knew his whole story, but he’d spent six months in a shelter. The day before he was to be euthanized, a rescue organization took him in and over the next 18 months, he bounced between foster homes while in rapidly declining health.
It hadn’t been long since Doreen had lost both of her beloved furry family members — adopting a new pet wasn’t in her plans. But Marty’s story moved her deeply. And she and her husband agreed: Their home would be Marty’s last stop.
It was a decision that filled their lives with joy from the second Marty came into their lives. Although Marty lost his ability to walk by spring, it didn’t stop their brown-eyed boy from enjoying each day to the fullest. Sadly, about 10 months later, it was Marty’s time to cross the rainbow bridge.
“His time with us may have been too short, but he’s left a permanent mark on my heart,” Doreen told Woman’s World.
And she knew just how to honor his loving spirit: “I decided to create a sanctuary where senior dogs can thrive and get the love they long for and deserve!”
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A loving mission forms through Marty’s Place
Doreen found property in Allentown, New Jersey, and got to work making “Marty’s Place” (MartysPlace.org) a true sanctuary for senior dogs.
Each furry senior — up to 40 dogs at a time — would have their own room, veterinary care and access to activities; there was even an indoor saltwater pool. Doreen hired a small team and was touched by the way the entire community rallied around Marty’s Place — by opening day in 2015, she had a steady stream of eager, dedicated volunteers.
“I knew there was a demand for a place like this, but I had no idea how many people would want to help,” Doreen marveled.
A safe haven for senior dogs
Dogs come to the sanctuary for a variety of reasons. Some have been neglected or abandoned, but many are placed by loving owners who desperately want to do right by their pets when faced with adverse circumstances, like financial hardship and health issues.
Doreen is always compassionate, assuring them that their beloved pets will be well cared for. Every time a new resident arrives, the staff and volunteers wrap the dogs in love. Dogs that come in withdrawn or sickly often blossom into free spirits after a few days or weeks at Marty’s Place.
Like little Sasha, a miniature husky who had been left alone for 20 to 22 hours a day. She was extremely timid. But in no time, she was thriving, dancing all around the place, even flirting with a very large dog named Buddy.
“She was so funny, and watching her just warmed my heart,” Doreen muses.
As the demand continued to grow, Doreen started a small adoption program, followed by a forever foster program. As much as she loves having the dogs at Marty’s Place, it’s equally gratifying when she finds people willing to welcome older dogs into their homes.
She also started a Seniors for Seniors outreach program, where residents from long-term care facilities visit with the dogs. After one visit, a resident’s daughter reached out with a message that touched Doreen deeply.
I want to thank you for the time you spent with my mom today, the letter read. She has been very withdrawn lately, but after her visit, she opened up for the first time in so long and couldn’t stop talking about all the wonderful dogs she met.
“If you touch just one person like that, you know you’ve made a difference,” says Doreen. “It makes me happy and proud to help uplift our seniors — humans and animals alike. And we get so much in return. The love that these senior dogs give back for what you’re doing for them is priceless. They are truly grateful. Being at Marty’s Place isn’t about existing, it’s about a dog thriving in their golden years and having a loving home for life!”
Marty’s Place shares tips to help senior dogs:
1. Adopt or foster!
“While senior dogs are often overlooked, adopting an older dog comes with advantages and rewards,” Doreen says. “Many are already house-trained, require less exercise and adjust more quickly to their new homes. Their years are limited, but the love and loyalty you will receive is immeasurable!”
2. Volunteer!
“Some seniors are content to cuddle on your lap, while others still welcome playtime,” says Doreen. “Volunteers are essential at most shelters and sanctuaries to take the dogs on walks or go for an outing to improve their health and behavior, which then increases their chances of getting adopted.”
3. Sponsor!
“Organize a large or small fundraiser to raise money to sponsor a dog’s care,” Doreen suggests. “Or fundraise to donate much-needed resources to their caretakers.” Visit MartysPlace.org, click “Get Involved,” then click “Wish List” to donate all the supplies needed for their care.
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