Memorials

Since House with a Heart opened in 2006, we have said good-bye to over ninety of our cherished residents. They will always remain in our hearts and we are eternally grateful for the time we had them in our lives. We find comfort in knowing we fulfilled our mission by providing them all with a loving home for the last years of their lives.  On this page we honor some of these special friends.

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  Munchkin

  Age: 16

  Munchkin came to HWAH when she was found as a stray kitty. Since Munchkin only had 3 legs we wanted a special home for her. When our volunteer Siggi lost her beloved cat of 19 years, Sweet Pea, she was looking to foster a cat that would sit on her lap and keep her company. Munchkin fit the bill and went to live with Siggi in 2010. She is a lively loveable girl that loves to sit atop her 3-tiered cat perch, in her bed in the front bay, or on the ledge of the back windows. She recently came back to live at HWAH and now enjoys time with the kitty pack.

  She was in kidney failure and once she completely stopped eating we knew the downfall would be slow and painful, so we let her go peacefully before she felt any worse. She is the last of our kitties and will be missed tremendously.

  Munchkin crossed the rainbow bridge on April 14th. Although Munchkin is no longer suffering and in pain, our hearts are hurting knowing we won’t hear her loud and hungry meows, her 3 legs thumping on the hardwood floor, and just knowing she’s upstairs in her favorite spot, relaxing in a beam of sun light.(April 14, 2024)

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  Winslo – Piper’s Pals – Memorial

  Age: 12

  Winslo (Winny) was found on the streets of Baltimore and turned into BARCS – Baltimore Animal Care and Rescue Shelter.  It was guesstimated that he was likely about 12 years old.  He was matted, dirty and had terribly infected eyes.   Jeanne with MASTER rescue learned of Winslo and his need for 24/7 care and a foster home that would be willing to deal with his fear of being picked up and having his face touched.  House with a Heart was eager to be the loving landing place for Mr. Winslo. Winny does have issues and fears about being picked up, he will try to snap….BUT…. if you are willing to sit on the floor with him he LOVES to be rubbed, and petted, and scratched all over – including his face, now that he is no longer in pain.  We can totally adapt to his not wanting to be held on a lap.  We are loving him just the way he is!!!

  Please light a candle for our sweet boy Winslo. We decided to let our precious boy go in peace this afternoon. We tried our best to give him the best quality of life and despite our efforts, he was tired and had very little quality of life. Our hearts are broken but we know he’s finally at peace, seeing all the wonders of the world with his beautiful eyes once again (March 29, 2024)
  

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  Jules – Memorial

  Age: 14

  This is the story of a lost dog that was found by a HWAH supporter while in California.  Lynn was walking a trail in CA when she noticed a small dog hiding in the bushes. With the aid of a passing car, they were able to capture the dog, and find the owner.  Sadly it was a woman with dementia and her family had surrendered her to a local shelter. Our heroine, Lynn decided to bring her back to Maryland to find her a new home.  She contacted HWAH and we stepped in to get her medical treatment and prepare her for a new fur-ever home.  After a few days at HWAH, we realized it might not be in her best interest to move her again. She is a bit frail, has some health issues we are now working on, and is very worried and easily frightened. To help with Jules’ medical expenses: Faith’s Fund

  Months ago, our darling girl Jules was diagnosed with multiple cancerous tumors in her chest and abdomen. The prognosis was not good. The Oncologist said Chemo would not help, so Dr. Handel put her on Prednisone, and she has blossomed. We say many times a week that it is hard to believe she has limited time with us. She is so full of joy and energy. No one gave her the memo!!
  Recently, we have noticed that she seems to have a bit of difficulty catching her breath. Today, Em kept monitoring her respiration, and to err on the side of caution, a Vet visit was scheduled. X-rays were taken, and the tumors had increased, and the prednisone had reached its limit.
  We know we don’t want her to suffer, and it is time to let our precious Jewel go. (Jan 10, 24)

   

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  Luke – Memorial

  Age: 16

  Luke is a senior 4 lb Maltese who has a behavior issue with eating!!! He eats one piece of kibble at a time and wants company while he does it.

  Luke loves to eat for hours and loves to snuggle with Lori and John in the evenings.  No worries about not being a “normal” dog.  Lori and John love him just the way he is!

  Update: December 8, 2023:

  I am thankful tonight for Lori’s love and compassion for her precious Forever Foster pup, Luke.  His vital signs were not good, and after consulting with the Doctor, Lori made the heartbreaking decision to say goodbye to Luke. That is TRUE LOVE…giving the love and care they need as long as possible and knowing when to let go and not allow suffering. (December 8, 2023)