One Perspective
2023 was not a good year for me. I lost my husband, Phil, and our Westie, Allie. Somehow I muddled through the first year but 2024 opened up a new chapter in my life with the arrival of Gracie Bella. It’s truly amazing what a puppy can bring into one’s life. The housebreaking (in winter), crate training, shots, vet appointments and toys, lots of them, all made my life joyous again. Yes, even housebreaking in the winter.
Phil and I had Westie’s because he was allergic to dogs. During our time being dog parents, we were involved in Westie Rescue and fostering. It was rewarding helping these little dogs find forever homes and help with their healing of many afflictions that torment this breed. As much as I love Westies, I kept hearing about all the other dogs and pets that came under harsh circumstances in the Adirondack area. I wanted all pets to have the happy home that Gracie Bella, Ollie, Jake, Ayla and Allie lived, so I formed Gracie Bella’s Hope. Hope has two meanings; it’s where my husband’s family came from and hope that pets are saved and live long lives.
Our board and I are a public charity, 501c3 formed earlier this year in 2025. The mission statement is quite clear “We are here to rescue pets from debilitating conditions that owners find it almost impossible to fund.” We help out when rescues and shelters are overwhelmed with an influx of pets. We financially help private people who find their pet(s) needing extraordinary veterinary care due to unforeseen circumstances.