2022 Top-Rated Nonprofit

Young At Heart Senior Pet Adoptions (Young at Heart Pet Rescue, Inc.)

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Nonprofit Overview

Causes: Animal Protection & Welfare, Animals

Mission: Young at Heart's mission is to provide senior dogs and cats with a safe haven to ensure they live with comfort, compassion, and companionship in their golden years. Our goal is to find a new home for every adoptable animal that comes through our door, to educate the public on the benefits of adopting older pets, and to decrease the euthanasia rate for older, adoptable dogs and cats.

Community Stories

55 Stories from Volunteers, Donors & Supporters

DonnaBauer Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/25/2023

Young at Heart endeavors to create a beautiful, comfortable and safe haven for homeless senior pets. Staff have a great affection for each cat or dog fortunate enough to find their way there. They are treated as individuals and accommodations are made for little quirks and preferences. Volunteers are welcomed with the same respect and kindness.

Previous Stories

Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/18/2020

YAH is a special place not only for the animals fortunate enough to be rescued by them, but for everyone who crosses the threshold of this truly remarkable and caring place. The indoor living spaces feel like home, the play yards & wooded trails for the dogs offer so much room to play and explore, and the screened “catios” allow cats a fun & comfortable place in the outdoors. The staff members are kind, welcoming, and so appreciative. Animals and people alike experience a a sense of belonging, respect, acceptance and love. I’m often asked if spending time there makes me feel sad or depressed to which I answer “not at all!” It truly is a joy to be associated with YAH, and I inevitably leave feelIng like I have received so much more than I have given.

VioletCharlie Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/25/2023

An amazing rescue whose mission is a difficult one, and yet they seem to beat the odds and provide the best care for senior animals in need. Everything they do is with their pets in mind, even if it seems impossible. They are highly organized, very intentional about their work and mission, and they just care a lot.

Leslie W.4 Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/25/2023

I have been a volunteer since 2019. I love and fully support the work they do for Senior dogs and cats. I have been an adopter, foster (failure), sanctuary mom, weekly volunteer, a freedom ride transporter, event volunteer, a member of the associate
board and donor.
I couldn't be prouder to be part of this great organization.

Previous Stories
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Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/28/2019

We started out as adopters, then we signed up to to be a foster home. We then became "Foster Failures" and adopted our 2 dogs. This fall, after the opening of the new shelter, I began volunteering
This is a wonderful organization.

cjohansen76 Volunteer

Rating: 5

07/07/2022

Everything about Young at Heart is extraordinary! Their cageless environment and dedicated, committed, caring staff, Board, and volunteers provide a loving, peaceful, safe, and comforting home to so many senior dogs and cats. They truly live by their mission and are devoted to animals and the community.

j_i_l_l_r Volunteer

Rating: 5

07/04/2022

Young at Heart is a very special place, and gives senior pets a second chance to be adopted or live out their years being cared for and loved at their Center. They receive veterinary care to live their best life, and kind, loving care in a cageless home-like environment. I’m honored to be able to volunteer here and be a part of their wonderful mission to help these senior dogs and cats!

pkawczyn Volunteer

Rating: 5

07/03/2022

I've been involved with Young At Heart for 10+ years and what stands out to me the most is their mission to do whatever is best for the animals in their care. Any needed medical care is addressed, they live cage-free in a homelike setting, the staff is incredibly caring and they do a great job of finding them forever homes that are a good fit. Despite often arriving under tragic circumstances, the animals that find their way here will have their best chance for a positive future. If I could no longer care for any of my pets and they ended up here I would feel relieved knowing they will be loved.

MartieG Volunteer

Rating: 5

07/02/2022

I am a retired teacher who is thoroughly enjoying the gift of time at this stage of the game. When I researched Non-profits in my county for potential volunteer opportunities, I came across the newly built Young At Heart shelter. After attending the Open House, I trained to become a volunteer and am so glad I did. The staff is extremely professional, compassionate and well versed in the care of the senior cats and dogs that are under their roof. As I mentioned, I am very picky as to how I spend my time, and I really cannot say enough about Young At Heart. They treat their animals with respect, nurture and empathy.....and we volunteers feel just as appreciated and valued. Young At Heart deserves "5 Stars" 10 times over.

CKSmiley Volunteer

Rating: 5

07/02/2022

It's hard to put into words how truly special Young at Heart Senior Pet Adoptions is. In most shelters, senior dogs and cats are the most difficult to find homes for sometimes resulting in euthanasia. YAH is dedicated to these pets and finding or giving them a home. They are brought into a beautiful, cageless, state of the art facility, provided any and all needed care (including surgery/rehab/on-going medical care if needed), and given a home with canine and feline friends and staff and volunteers who love them every day. There they play outside in a huge play yard and meadow, go for walks on beautiful nature trails, and lounge on comfy chairs and sofas watching movies with volunteers until they find their "furever" home. Some, including those that need to be the only pet, are placed in foster homes with other dedicated staff and volunteers. Those who are not adoptable because of medical or behavioral issues are placed into a Sanctuary Program where they will live out their lives happy and loved. Operationally, it is the best run nonprofit I have ever been involved with. The state-of-the-art shelter is beautiful, spotless....and calm, with every thought for what is good for the senior pets. Every dollar goes for the good of the senior pets. Every Staff member and Volunteer is there for the good of the senior pets. And every decision made is for the good of the senior pets. It is a joy to volunteer at Young at Heart.

evillynn81 Volunteer

Rating: 5

07/01/2022

Heat place to volunteer! The facility is so clean and modern. They take great care of all the cats and dogs.

Previous Stories

Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/18/2020

I volunteer at this shelter and it’s the cleanest and most organized shelter I’ve ever seen. They truly care for the animals and take extra measures to make sure each animal has individualized care and goes to the right home. All the animals are always happy and I’m always impressed with how clean the facility is.

Cooper33 Volunteer

Rating: 5

07/01/2022

I am a volunteer at young at heart. The care and love these animals receive are beyond measure! Volunteers are treated kindly and respectful. It’s a wonderful place! Laura Butler

Gerij514 Volunteer

Rating: 5

07/01/2022

The very best in rescues. Very clean and uncaged makes for a pleasant experience to volunteers and pups and kitties. Always a pleasure to volunteer and help out anyway we can.
We have also adopted and been a sanctuary for a pup with cancer.

just4YAHR Volunteer

Rating: 5

07/01/2022

Started volunteering years ago when they were a foster based rescue. Now volunteering at the shelter and it’s always been the same, the focus is the animals. They really do anything/everything they can think of to encourage and thank the volunteers. But for me it’s the focus on the animals that I really appreciate and keeps me coming back. I leave any other concerns I may have at the shelter door and just enjoy the time immersed in activities with the dogs. My favorite form of meditation.

Elbersen Volunteer

Rating: 5

06/21/2022

The primary job of a volunteer is to give love and attention to the cats and dogs who live there. Volunteers are well respected and appreciated. Once an animal is accepted by YAH, they will live there unless or until they are adopted. Every animal is given the best life possible once they come to stay at YAH whether their stay is until they are adopted or permanently. The animals live in rooms together usually grouped by size, not in cages. If they are not social, they have their own "apartment." Animals who come in as "bonded pairs" must be adopted together. The facilities are kept incredibly clean and all bedding and blankets, etc. are changed on a regular basis. The best thing about being a volunteer at YAH is that one leaves feeling happy, not sad, for the animals, knowing they have a wonderful life until they are adopted.

sybrgrl Volunteer

Rating: 5

06/17/2022

At Young at Heart Senior Pet Rescue every day is a precious gift to the senior cats and dogs who are in their care. A safe happy and calm place of rest, good food and much needed medical care come with all the love these beautiful souls need. The staff and volunteers are all rockstars and provide a sanctuary for all who enter and reside there.
I am so blessed to be a volunteer here and work along side these special people. Such a happy place.

suej1331 Volunteer

Rating: 5

06/16/2022

I have been volunteering with this GREAT organization since 2012 (before they built and occupied their current Woodstock, IL location). The level of excellence in the love and care they provide these senior pets has always been stellar. Not only do they care passionately about the senior dogs and cats, but they go above and beyond, guiding and respecting both staff and volunteers. If you are so lucky to be able to adopt one of these senior sweethearts (dog or cat), you will have the most wonderful new addition to your family. ADOPT from Young at Heart!

ddbauer Volunteer

Rating: 5

06/15/2022

In a world that sometimes feels too hectic, too contentious, and too impersonal, Young at Heart Senior Pet Adoptions provides an oasis of calm, caring, respect and kindness for all the 4 legged and 2 legged friends that are fortunate enough to find their way there. The facility is safe, clean, comfortable & beautiful. The animals get the love, medical care, attention, & exercise they deserve. No matter where they have been, they know they are safe and cherished now. As a volunteer I walk dogs on wooded trails or go on community outings. I spend time with cats playing or lounging on their unique screened catios. When I leave YAH for the day, I come home to a wonderful little guy who found his way into my heart and home. As a volunteer or adopter, I cannot say enough good things about this very special place.

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justingumm Volunteer

Rating: 5

06/15/2022

I started Volunteering with Young at Heart in Jan 2020 and have spent a good amount of time at the center and engaging with the staff and animals.

I can quite confidently say that this is the nicest shelter I have seen in my last 30 years of engaging with shelters across the Globe. Their passion to take on and improve the quality of life for senior pets is beyond anything I have seen anywhere else.

When you add this passion to the space they have created (rooms are set up like household sitting rooms with Sofas and TVs etc) and the way they have volunteers interact with the 'residents' to provide enrichment and training leads to an environment where every pet can feel safe, receive first class (no expense spared) medical treatment and lead their best life.

If you are looking to adopt a dog or cat, I wholly recommend you reach out to the center and if you cannot take on a new friend, please think about donating, they will use your donation wisely, and ultimately, save a life!

PS, this is a picture of Shirley with her Favorite ball; sadly she has since passed, but genuinely led her best life right up until the end, and all because of Young at Heart!

Lstrunk Volunteer

Rating: 5

06/15/2022

I started volunteering with YAH back before they had the amazing new shelter in Woodstock. The staff and volunteers are made up of true animal lovers. I have never been in a shelter that does not smell like it has animals in it, until now. The rooms all have couches or benches or chairs, dog beds and blankets for the dogs to rest on. It is like their own living room. Cleaning is done daily multiple times a day most days. Dogs and cats acclimating to their new residence can be kept separate, in luxury rooms to provide security and to allow them to be evaluated for adoption or rest from surgeries often required on older pets. The environment is one of safety and comfort for the pets, and volunteers. It is like Dell Web, but for pets! I love volunteering and helping to keep the pets feeling loved and providing enrichment opportunities. I cannot say enough good things about the shelter, the pets they have their and the staff and volunteers. Truly, if a senior pet loses their home, this is the only place I would want them to go.

Jill-R7474 Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/29/2020

I am a relatively new volunteer with Young At Heart and have found it to be such a special place. Every senior dog and cat are treated so well and the ultimate goal is to give them a second chance and prepare them for their forever home. Reminding a dog how to heel or teaching a cat to high five make them more adoptable, and the truly wonderful staff work with the animals. The pets are well-loved and socialized. The dogs get to trail walk daily and the cats have access to a “catio” where they get fresh air and experience the outside. There are no kennels, but have group living areas where they interact with other dogs or cats. There are many shelters in my area, but I choose to drive 45 miles round trip to volunteer time at Young at Heart a couple of times a week, as I believe in their mission and have the ultimate respect for the staff and volunteers. Young at Heart is an extraordinary place!

mhitzke Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/21/2020

Volunteering at Young at Heart is very rewarding and it is wonderful to see Senior Pets find a forever home. Senior animals can offer so much to your life and are often overlooked when people are looking to adopt. Young at Heart recognizes this and is doing a great service to senior pets. If you are able to donate your time, this organization has many areas where you can help, cleaning, walking dogs, writing thank you notes, outdoor beautification and much more!

Previous Stories
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Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/30/2019

What a great organization focusing on helping find homes for senior pets. If you plan to volunteer with them, they are very well organized, appreciative of your time and open to suggestions.

Patty Caporusso K. Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/20/2020

I am a volunteer, donator and adopter for Young at Heart. This organization cares so deeply for dogs and cats. It's an honor to be a witness to everything they do for senior pets! My life has been blessed with the adoption of a senior dog and with the people at Young at Heart!

semuran Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/20/2020

Prior to volunteering at Young At Heart I’d spent 5 years working with a rescue in WA. It was my first opportunity to give back a bit of the love received from the many dogs and one great tabby cat, Noah, that were beloved family members. But it was not until I was honored to join the volunteers at Young At Heart, 5 years ago, that I witnessed the truest expression of animal conservation - the loving care of senior dogs and cats.

Beginning as a foster mom, then a sanctuary mom it’s been a great pleasure to care for 7 senior dogs. Along the way I adopted Simon, a beautiful Siamese and little buck-toothed, Nancy, of unknown derivation famous as a YAH
Ambassadog whose heart surgery at Purdue University was made possible by generous donations. And most recently Robert-John, aka Bobby, a delightful “talking” long haired dachshund has joined our canine family. Along the way I’ve served as “taxi” pick up for several senior dogs from various shelters and most recently volunteered at the new Woodstock YAH shelter, Smokey’s Haven.

And what a glorious environment the YAH shelter is! Comprised of free roam rooms for pups - the “Biggs” and the “the Littles” with play yards and walking paths while kitties also in free roam enjoy outdoor catteries. Guided by truly selfless leaders, staffed 365 days by dedicated, generous and nurturing support staff aided by trained volunteers this shelter is a marvelous example of true love.

Its an honor and a privilege to be a small part of such a wonderful endeavor.

Geri Ehle H. Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/19/2020

Ron and I have been volunteers/supporters for 10+ years. Dawn, her staff & the army of volunteers and supporters have created the most awesome senior pet rescue. Everyone involved thinks only of the best methods to care for the senior dogs & cats. The building is designed with the animal needs first.
We have 2 of their rescues that give us nothing but love.
Keep up the great work to save many more seniors.
Geri &Ron Hennessey

Susanandcats Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/19/2020

When I retired 8 years ago, I looked for an animal rescue where I could volunteer, now that I had the time. I am so glad I found Young at Heart. I had never heard of a rescue that specialized in senior dogs and cats, and I was impressed with their mission. Rescuing the hard-to-place seniors, getting them clean and relaxed and healthy, and keeping them in a cage-free, stimulating, loving environment until adoption, is the epitome of humane animal care and respect. The new facility in Woodstock is a fantastic place for the animals themselves, and it brings a sense of peace and fellowship to all the people who work and volunteer there. I highly recommend Young at Heart for people looking for an animal rescue for both volunteering and donating.

BruceBrown Donor

Rating: 5

10/19/2020

We have been involved with this charity as donors, volunteers, and foster “failures”. They introduced us to our beloved Jerry, who we had for 7 years prior to his passing this year at 19 years of age! Wonderful organization with great leadership! So glad to be part of the YAH family

galet Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/19/2020

I volunteer at YAH & have seen them grow as they built this beautiful & caring facility in my town. A very caring & devoted staff with years of pet training, care, etc. between the staff.
Dogs & cats have beautiful areas in & out to explore & cuddle. Thank you, YAH!

Ortrud S. Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/19/2020

Young at Heart is not my only experience volunteering at a dog shelter, but it is definitely the best experience I’ve ever had volunteering anywhere! One of the main reasons I feel this way is because everyone at the shelter loves and cares for the animals at a level that far surpasses anything I’ve ever witnessed before. All dogs and cats are “elderly” and the care they get is nothing short of excellent. I love how well adjusted and happy the dogs seem, and how they are free to roam about their many different venues. Some of these venues include play yards, different rooms for relaxing and playing, as well as a very nice walking area. By not confining the animals to mundane, limited areas, I believe they give them the feeling that they are home. This provides a relaxed, stress free environment that is critical to dogs and cats in their golden years. Another reason I feel so strongly about this facility is because they keep it spotless! It is so clean, both inside and out. This demonstrates to me how deeply they care for the health and well-being of those entrusted to their care. Lastly, and this is the one that is very personal to me… and that’s how appreciative the staff is of their volunteers. We are never taken for granted, and I always know that we are all working with one purpose, and that is the ultimate in loving, compassionate care for the precious seniors we are blessed to be on this journey with. It’s really all about them and it’s all about the love we share for these priceless creatures. All senior animals should be so blessed as to be guests at Young at Heart!
Ortrud S



Nicole Sandelin B.

Nicole Sandelin B. Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/19/2020

I couldn't love this organization more...from the staff who works tirelessly to ensure the wellbeing of each of these sweet senior companion cats and dogs, to the beautiful home they've created to provide a comfortable environment while the pets wait for a forever home. It is so heartwarming to see these seniors treated with such compassion and respect. I have volunteered and fostered (and adopted!) from YAH and would do so again in a heartbeat. They are truly wonderful!!

pdlocascio Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/18/2020

I have also volunteered at many shelters rescues over the years I am constantly impressed at the way this rescue is run. Sandy Bacino is the best volunteer coordinator I have ever encountered. Their communication is clear and consistent in the organization is top notch. This all results in excellent care for these wonderful animals that are forgotten by others. The environment for these animals is much more like a home than any rescue you have seen. Any money donated to this rescue is used efficiently and with great care.

ajankowski13 Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/18/2020

I’ve been a volunteer here since February and cannot gush enough how amazing Young at Heart is. Going there for a shift is always the highlight of my week. Even at my first shift the staff and other volunteers made me feel incredibly welcome and at home and that feeing hasn’t faded at all. All of the animals are incredibly well cared for and because of the way the facility is set up, you really get a feeling of what the pets personalities are and they go above and beyond to try to match the senior with their perfect forever home. Everyone here is there for the animals and goes out of their way to make sure that everyone is happy and healthy. Signing up to volunteer here has been one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.

RickGordon Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/18/2020

Young at heart is a real cageless shelter. The senior pups live together in communal “living rooms”. There is plenty of outdoor time in several fenced in yards along with a 15 min round trip walking trail. The cats are housed in playrooms each having its own”Catio” fir outdoor lounging in nice weather. The staff is truly caring and the “guests” are given lots of attention. They are happy and contented. All emotional and medical care is provided to keep them that way. Another thing I love about Young at Heart is there is an opportunity, should your senior pup outlive you, to make a small bequeath and your pup/ cat can live out his/her senior days well cared for.

kashbaugh Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/18/2020

I've only been a volunteer for a short time, but I love the time I've spent with the team and the animals. This organziation truly goes the extra mile for the dogs and cats in their care, creating great enriching experiences for these animals. They treat their volunteers with respect and offer a wide range of activities to volunteer for. They've grown my love and compassion for senior dogs, while I haven't adopted from them, I do have 3 seniors at home because of what I've learned from Young at Heart.

mememes Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/03/2020

A haven for senior pets!
The staff who work here are dedicated and take wonderful care of all the seniors in this state of the art facility.
Heated floors, comfy beds, fluffy blankys, stimulation, toys, great trails to walk and yards and meadows to play in.
It's an honour to volunteer here

putter123 Volunteer

Rating: 5

09/30/2020

I really cant say enough about how wonderful this organization is! I have been a volunteer for almost a year now and I'm still amazed and in awe of the caring and compassionate staff that works nonstop to insure the comfort of each and every animal. The senior pets there are treated with so much love and compassion. Imagine a place where rescue dogs lounge on couches and dog beds in front of a fire place where volunteers watch movies with them and snuggle in to watch a good movie. The cats have a paradise of their own with access to fresh air and an abundance of toys and interaction to keep them busy all day long.
The dogs there are treated to lots of outside time including trail walks, obstacle course play and swimming pools to cool off in during the summer months.

As a volunteer I feel very valued and enjoy my time there tremendously. What a wonderful place to be a part of.

lillj8312 Volunteer

Rating: 5

09/30/2020

I've volunteered with numerous rescue organizations over the years and YAH is the BEST rescue that I've worked with! They're very organized and easy to communicate with. I love that the shelter is more like a home so that the animals can show potential adopters their real personalities as opposed to being cooped up in cages all day.

Rangerpags Volunteer

Rating: 5

09/30/2020

I love young at heart so much!! They give so much to the animals they have and they make sure they know they are loved. On recommendation I have is to maybe an extra hour of volunteering at night for kids who have school during the day. You could add a 5-6 or 6-7 walking time at night.

Arlene B.2 Board Member

Rating: 5

01/29/2020

In 2005, I started as a foster mom and volunteer with the small but mighty crew at YAH Senior Pet Rescue. About a year later, I was lucky enough to be asked to be on the board of directors. Since then, I've worked with a VERY dedicated Executive Director, Foster and Volunteer Coordinators, Board and AMAZING volunteers!

My entire family loves being involved with the fun events for YAHPR. We're so happy about the outpouring of love and assistance from so many people that have helped us finally open our adoption center in Woodstock. It's a dream come true - and we're looking forward to helping so many more senior dogs and cats.

If you're wondering if we still need volunteers or foster homes - the answer is YES PLEASE! Our volunteers and foster homes are the lifeblood of our organization and we cannot do it without you, so please contact us at: http://www.adoptaseniorpet.com/how-you-can-help/volunteer, to find out about all the areas you can help! THANK YOOUUUUUU!

Peggy H.2 Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/30/2019

I have been volunteering with Young At Heart since I moved to the Chicago suburbs five years ago. I always loved older dogs and an organization that rescued seniors was very appealing.
But nothing in the past years could prepare me for the thrill of seeing the new home of YAH.The beautiful home-like rooms, made even more special when dogs moved into them. Today I spent several hours visiting with the residents of two of the spacious rooms, both furnished with sofas, cushioned benches and many, many dog beds. The five older dogs were all so calm and loving, obviously happy with their living arrangements.

I hope that this kind of shelter is the wave of the future!

1

AllenP Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/30/2019

I LOVE the work of Young at Heart Pet Rescue. The board members, leadership, and staff are exceptional. We all share one passion and mission in everything we do — to provide senior dogs and cats with a safe haven to ensure they live with comfort, compassion, and companionship in their golden years. If you love animals, I highly recommend Young at Heart to donate, adopt or volunteer.

I am new and I have been impressed with my volunteer experiences:

- They provided a volunteer orientation that talked about Young at Heart’s many volunteer opportunities and the flexible time commitments that fit in to everyones schedule. There are opportunities that use all levels of experience and many different skills types.

- When I came in for my first day staff were friendly, welcoming and prepared for me. Meaning they were able to explain exactly what I would be doing, how things worked, where the different supplies and equipment I needed was kept, answer all questions, etc. They showed me around and I had the opportunity to meet the director, staff and other volunteers. They also provided me with a volunteer handbook. They made this new volunteers experience a comfortable one.

- Volunteer support and training is great and they regularly express their appreciation.

- Young at Hearts Volunteer Coordinator does a great job communicating with the volunteers and keeping them updated. She listens to volunteers and regularly invites suggestions from volunteers.

- The volunteers and staff are a fun and great people.

If you want to make a positive difference in the lives of senior dogs and cats, Young at Heart Pet Rescue is the place for you. You will definitely be appreciated!

The pictures are of myself and others volunteering at the 2019 Silver Paws Gala.

1

Momoftworescues Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/29/2019

I have been volunteering as often as possible with them over the last three years. Everyone is so truly dedicated to these senior pets! I am always impressed with the amount of affection they are given, how many fosters continue to open their homes to dogs despite health issues or limited mobility. Their annual event, while I have yet to be able to volunteer for, is always a big success and I am always happy to help gather donations because I know how much of the hard effort and cash goes back into saving more lives. Love this rescue and all the sweet pets they help take care of!

1

claudia1ann Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/28/2019

I have been a volunteer for Young at Heart Pet Rescue going on 7 years now. This organization is by far the best nonprofit I have ever worked with. I have transported, fostered, adopted, worked at the shelter and special events. The staff is exceptional and focused on the goal of saving the lives of senior dogs and cats. The support given to the volunteers is above and beyond the call of duty. For that reason this organization attracts the best volunteers many of whom have been with Young at Heart since the beginning over 14 years ago. I have included a photo taken at an annual Mutt Mosey of Smokey Boy and Smokey Girl. Smokey Girl was 17 when Young at Heart pulled her from a city shelter when her family abandoned her because she was too old. She was well taken care of by Young at Heart in their Sanctuary program and lived to be over 18 years old. Pictured in another photo is Baby Doll who was in very bad shape when Young at Heart took her in and gave her the medical attention she needed. She is affectionately known as "Million Dollar Baby." Pictured in the other photos are Baby Doll as she looks today along with some of the other seniors saved by Young at Heart and adopted by me. I am 100% behind the Young at Heart nonprofit organization as a volunteer and a donor.

rthomp123 General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

10/28/2019

I have volunteered for Young At Heart for a number of years, helping out with the cats. And I must say that the work they do is incredible! Very few organizations focus solely on senior animals, which is a testament to where their hearts are. I know how difficult it is to find forever homes for seniors and I give them quite a bit of credit for this.
They are dedicated, kind and loving! I highly recommend Young At Heart for anyone looking for a loving dog or cat.

4

rickucera Professional with expertise in this field

Rating: 5

11/26/2012

This organization is the ONLY senior animal ( 5+ years) rescue/shelter/foster care group in ALL the US WOW! They do a wonderful job with finding homes for the older animals in the homeless population. Please if you are able to give an older animal a forever home Please look to this great organization.

5

mmmamm Volunteer

Rating: 5

01/24/2012

My daughter and I have been volunteering with this wonderful organization for two years now. We work with the cats -- socializing and brushing them, playing with them -- and cleaning up their messes. We also ensure they have clean water and fresh food as needed. We love going there. Even though there are mixed emotions when the cats leave to go to their forever homes -- we are greatful to have gotten to know them during their stay -- and that we could help them get over their fears and/or anxieties -- whatever they may be. We are proud to volunteer for an organization that thinks senior pets deserve to live -- no matter what their story is.

4

kmook Volunteer

Rating: 5

08/12/2011

I volunteered weekly for a year at the Young at Hearts LZ Cat Center. Unfortunately I've had to rein back these responsibilities due to my busy work schedule, but I miss it all the time! Working with the cats in the LZ Cat Center has been such a joy. Every time another one gets adopted it makes you feel like you are doing something to help these babies that might not otherwise have had a chance, find forever homes!
Young at Heart has grown even since I learned of them, and they continue to have a community presence and make their name more well known. Their special dedication to senior pets has saved so many lives, and I'm so proud to be a small part of their organization!

5

Candace C. Donor

Rating: 5

08/07/2011

Young at Heart is a wonderful organization dedicated to rescuing senior pets. Many times, these lovely creatures are left behind at shelters, yet they make wonderful companions and need the loving care and friendship provided in new homes. Young at Heart's unique mission of saving senior pets is one deserving of much more attention and support. I would highly recommend this organization to anyone looking to adopt, and I also hope their rescue dreams for senior pets blossom and grow exponentially over the next few years. We're very pleased to support this organization in all their efforts and look forward to many more successful rescue stories and increased visibility for this group, all of which are well deserved! Great pets, super volunteers, and a well-run rescue group!

3

Jeannie W. Volunteer

Rating: 5

08/04/2011

Young at Heart takes on the unique challenge of placing senior (5 year old+) dogs and cats into new homes, where they can live out their golden years. There are a lot of rescue groups, and all do admirable work. But, Young at Heart are not afraid to say yes to senior pets that would otherwise be first on the list for euthanasia in a shelter.

4

Susie K. Client Served

Rating: 5

08/04/2011

When I was looking to adopt an Min Pin through Petfinder, I saw Tex's profile and contacted Young At Heart. Dawn was very quick to respond, and kept me informed of Tex's vet exams, dental cleaning, x-rays (he walks with a limp). She was wonderful to work with, and we met as soon as Tex was cleared for adoption. He got along well with our other dogs and family, so home he came:) That was three years ago and we love him very much.

Thanks to Dawn and Young at Heart Pet Rescue for making the adoption so smooth and easy:)

3

Sandra P. Volunteer

Rating: 5

08/04/2011

Young at Heart helps a unique population Senior Pets! When most organizations, say, too old, they say, we'll find them a good home. As a volunteer, you can easily see your impact on the animals. They communicate very well so you know what's going on and who the money is helping and where they need extra help. I work with the kitties. I see how they come in scared and then how they get better as everyone works with them. They also post follow-up information on the animals that have found homes. It's a great feeling to see one of the animals you helped take care of in a happy home.

4

Ann H. Volunteer

Rating: 5

08/04/2011

I am active in several organizations in Chicago that deal with animal welfare and rescue. It breaks my heart to see senior animals get passed over time and again in favor of puppies and kittens. Most of the older animals have been dumped at a shelter (or worse) because they need care or are no longer wanted. They sadly become 'disposable' through no fault of their own.
I became aware of Young at Heart when they rescued 13 senior animals from an open intake shelter here in the city. Having met a few of the animals while volunteering, my heart was bursting when I saw that they got another chance at life.
As I got to know the kind of work they do and the effort they make to help these animals I was really moved. This organization is doing wonderful and much needed work, helping those paws live what is left of their life with dignity, care, and most of all, love. What a gift!

4

Amy B. Donor

Rating: 5

08/03/2011

A professional fundraiser myself, I can very wholeheartedly say that Young at Heart Pet Rescue is an amazing organization. It’s entirely supported by volunteers—they’re grassroots, but they’re mighty! As a donor, I feel consistently updated on the good work they’re doing to re-home senior dogs and cats in our area. Hundreds of animals have been rescued and those suffering from medical issues are able to spend their remaining days with much love and comfort. I can’t say enough good things about YAH!

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