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By Alice Gibbs
Senior Reporter
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When a frail, unresponsive dog named Snoots arrived at Austin Pets Alive! (APA!) on September 22, shelter staff feared they were too late to save him.
At least 12 years old, emaciated, and weighing just 5 pounds, Snoots was in critical condition. His jaw bore the marks of severe dental disease, and his tiny body seemed to have endured years of hardship.
But after receiving emergency vet care, a warm meal, medication, and a night’s rest, the Chihuahua mix surprised the APA! veterinary team.
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By the next morning, he was standing at the kennel door, ready to greet them—“looking like a real dog again.”
A Viral Story
Despite his fragile state, Snoots has proven to be a “total sweetie pie,” according to APA!, craving nothing more than to be held and loved. His story has captured hearts far beyond Austin. A video posted on APA!’s Instagram page showcasing his transformation and gentle spirit has been viewed more than 350,000 times.
“While we don’t know how much time Snoots has left,” APA! told Newsweek, “we know he deserves the opportunity to feel love all the way to the end.”
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It wasn’t long before the shelter found somewhere perfect for Snoots. On September 25, just three days after his rescue, APA! placed him in a loving hospice foster home, ensuring his remaining time will be filled with comfort and care.
Caring for Senior Dogs
Providing end-of-life care for senior pets is both emotionally and financially challenging. Still, APA! stresses the importance of compassion for animals at every stage of life. “Every pet deserves compassion, care, and respect,” the rescue said.
Snoots’ recovery and care have been supported in part by a grant from The Grey Muzzle Organization, which funds medical care for senior dogs in shelters and rescues across the country. With the grant’s help, APA! is able to provide essential treatments and hospice support, allowing dogs like Snoots to live out their final days in comfort.
Dogs in Shelters
In the first half of 2025, approximately 1.41 million dogs entered shelters and rescues across the U.S., according to the Shelter Animals Count 2025 Mid-Year Report. This represents a 5 percent decline compared to the same period in 2024.
Despite the modest drop in overall intake, the numbers remain high enough to keep many organizations under pressure, with government shelters handling more than half of all dog intakes nationwide.
Meanwhile, outcomes for senior dogs such as Snoots are not as positive either as adoption statistics showed that senior dog adoptions decreased by 2 percent compared with 2024, suggesting that older animals are struggling to find homes when compared with younger counterparts.
Do you have funny and adorable videos or pictures of your pet you want to share? Send them to life@newsweek.com with some details about your best friend, and they could appear in our Pet of the Week lineup.
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