Keeping the Promise: Marlee, Miles, and Maks
By Wendy Derhak, Founder & Executive Director, The Pet Cottage
If you were at our Gratitude Luncheon earlier this month, you felt it: the hum of belonging that happens when a community shows up for pets and the people who love them. That same spirit is carrying us into fall — and it’s written all over the second chapters of three beautiful Golden Retrievers you met in our July issue: Marlee, Miles, and Maks.
They didn’t arrive as a neat story. They arrived from a family in crisis — loved deeply, yet needing help. Because of the Pawsitively Perry Fund (generously funded by the Peter H. Kamin Family Foundation), we were able to welcome the Goldens into our Lifelong Guardianship Program and move swiftly to give each dog what every soul deserves: a safe, loving home.
Marlee found her people in Nancy and John, a calm home where belly rubs are a daily ritual and porch time is sacred. Soon after joining our program, Marlee began battling chronic ear infections. Support from the Grey Muzzle Foundation is helping cover her ongoing treatment — vet visits, medications, and monitoring — so she stays comfortable and infection free.
Miles — sunny, sensitive, and a champion snuggler — was paired with the Myers family. Recently he developed a seizure disorder and, with guidance from Dr. Vinoski’s team, they’re learning what to watch for — tracking possible episodes, adjusting routines to avoid triggers, and keeping him comfortable and thriving.
Maks, the youngest of the trio and part of the Myers family too, recently developed bladder stones and transitioned to a prescription diet to prevent recurrence. He’s back to supervising kitchen prep with great enthusiasm.
This is the promise in action. The Pawsitively Perry Fund makes it possible for pets like Marlee, Miles, and Maks to enter our program with the costs of rehoming and stabilization covered. The Grey Muzzle Foundation — along with the Cathleen McFarlane Foundation — helps ensure we can provide ongoing veterinary care seniors so often need: surgeries, medications, and special diets included. Day-to-day, Dr. Vinoski and his compassionate team support our Guardians with practical, accessible care in the community.
Behind the funds and checklists is something simple and sacred: home. It’s Nancy and John moving a dog bed to catch the afternoon sun. It’s the Myers family learning what to watch for with Miles — while Maks gets his special meals. It’s people choosing — again and again — to be keepers of the promise.
Step into the story with us: Join Happy Tails (monthly giving). Choose a simple monthly amount — $10, $25, or what feels right — and help keep vet doors open and the Sanctuary lights on so seniors and their people never walk alone.
Open your home as a Guardian. Welcome a pet who has lost their person. We provide veterinary care, supplies, training support, and a caring community so you’re never on your own. Email to learn more and start the conversation.
Event Spotlight — There’s No Place Like Home: A Celebration of Care Fundraiser
When: Saturday, November 15, 4–7:30 p.m. (sunset)
Where: Blue Ridge Farms
Honoring: Dr. Vinoski and team
You’ll enjoy appetizers, a bar, live music, and heart‑warming stories that show how care becomes home. Learn about The Pet Cottage, our Guardian program, and simple ways to get involved.
Claim your spot: Email [email protected] or call 561.818.5025.
When we stand together, crisis becomes care and care becomes home. Thank you for helping us write these second chapters for Marlee, Miles, and Maks — and for all of the pets and people currently in our care.
Tickets and details: [email protected] | 561.818.5025. Monthly giving: Ask about joining Happy Tails. Become a Guardian: [email protected]. Programs and placements: thepetcottage.org.
