Walking into an animal shelter is an experience that stirs deep emotions for any animal lover. The sight of wagging tails and hopeful eyes behind bars can fill a person with both joy and heartbreak. Many leave with the same thought lingering in their minds: “If only I could adopt them all!” For most, however, the practical realities of life—space, time, and resources—make this impossible. But for Chris and Mariesa Hughes, this heartfelt dream became their reality, sparking a mission that would change the lives of hundreds of senior dogs forever.
The Hughes’ incredible journey began when they walked into their local shelter and met Moses, a senior dog who had spent far too long waiting for a family. Moses was no ordinary dog; he faced significant health challenges, including a spinal cord tumor, and his time was running out. Despite the daunting prognosis, Chris and Mariesa felt an immediate connection with him. They adopted Moses and gave him the love and care he had always deserved, even though the shelter warned them that his life expectancy was heartbreakingly short.
Moses passed away just four weeks after his adoption, but his impact on Hughes was profound. Losing him made them realize how many other senior dogs like Moses were languishing in shelters, unwanted and unloved, simply because of their age or medical conditions. Many of these dogs would spend their final days in a kennel, never knowing the warmth of a home or the joy of being part of a family. Chris and Mariesa couldn’t stand by and let that happen.
Determined to make a difference, the couple founded the Mr. Mo Project, named in honor of Moses, the senior dog who changed their lives. What started as a way to help a few local shelter dogs soon grew into a nationwide initiative dedicated to rescuing senior dogs from shelters and providing them with loving homes for however much time they had left.
Senior dogs face unique challenges in shelters. Many families seeking to adopt are drawn to younger dogs or puppies, eager for the prospect of years spent together. Older dogs, on the other hand, often come with medical issues or emotional scars, making them less appealing to potential adopters. For shelters with limited resources, this means senior dogs are often overlooked and left behind.
Speaking about their mission, Chris said, “We take the dogs that other people won’t. Whether it’s because of their age, appearance, or medical needs, we believe they all deserve a chance to be loved.”
The Mr. Mo Project addresses these challenges head-on, offering a safety net for senior dogs that might otherwise never leave the shelter. The Hughes cover the cost of medical care, food, and any other expenses needed to ensure the dogs in their care can enjoy their remaining years to the fullest.
Initially, the Hughes focused on their local shelter, adopting and fostering senior dogs in their own home. But as word spread about their efforts, the project began to grow. Over the past six years, the Mr. Mo Project has rescued more than 500 senior dogs, expanding its reach far beyond their hometown. Today, their network of foster families and adopters stretches across the United States, from New York to California, and even into Canada.
Despite the scale of their operations, the heart of their mission remains the same: to give each dog the love, care, and dignity they deserve. Every rescue is a testament to their belief that no dog should spend its final days alone or unloved.
Rescuing senior dogs isn’t cheap. Medical bills for these dogs can be significant, as many require surgeries, treatments, or ongoing care for chronic conditions. The Hughes rely heavily on donations from compassionate supporters who share their vision. Generous contributions from their community and beyond help cover the costs of veterinary care, medications, food, and other essentials.
However, there have been times when the donations didn’t stretch far enough. On those occasions, Chris and Mariesa didn’t hesitate to dip into their own savings to ensure no dog went without the care they needed. For the couple, every dollar spent is worth it when they see the transformation in a once-neglected dog—whether it’s a wagging tail, a playful bark, or simply the peaceful look of a dog who finally feels safe and loved.
The Hughes are committed to making every moment count for the dogs they rescue. From cozy beds and nutritious meals to endless cuddles and playtime, these dogs experience a level of care that many have never known. The couple’s Instagram page is filled with heartwarming photos and videos, showcasing their furry family members enjoying everything from sunny afternoons in the yard to special birthday celebrations.
Chris and Mariesa’s philosophy is simple yet powerful: every dog deserves to be loved, no matter how old or sick they are. For the Hughes, this means going above and beyond to ensure their rescued dogs live their golden years with joy, comfort, and dignity.
The Mr. Mo Project has not only saved hundreds of dogs but has also inspired countless people to reconsider their ideas about pet adoption. Through their advocacy and online presence, Chris and Mariesa encourage others to look beyond the cute puppies in shelters and consider giving a home to a senior dog in need.
“Adopting a senior dog is one of the most rewarding experiences you can have,” Mariesa shared. “They may not have as much time as a puppy, but the love they give is unmatched.”
The poor pup died locked inside a waste-filled crate. Three other dogs were in the home, also locked up in crates, and just barely surviving. Sign the petition to demand justice for these dogs!
Thanks to the Hughes’ tireless efforts, hundreds of senior dogs have been spared the loneliness of life in a shelter and have instead found homes where they are cherished until their very last days. Their work is a powerful reminder that love has no age limit, and that even the oldest dogs can bring joy, companionship, and unconditional love to their families.
Chris and Mariesa’s story is a testament to the difference one couple can make when driven by compassion and determination. Through the Mr. Mo Project, they’ve created a legacy of hope and love that will continue to inspire animal lovers for years to come.
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via Whisker Therapy