Watching a beloved dog age and slow down can be heartbreaking, especially knowing their time with us is limited. This is why many pet owners go the extra mile to ensure their senior pets enjoy their final years to the fullest, often creating a special “bucket list” of experiences for them. Recently, a heartwarming story unfolded as a kind gesture helped fulfill a dying dog’s final wish to play in the snow one last time.
Marianna Wilson and Elijah Saltzgaber, of Utah (USA), cherished their 11-year-old dog Maggie. When Maggie was diagnosed with cancer in July, the couple faced the harsh reality of her limited time left with them.
To make Maggie’s final days truly special, they crafted a bucket list filled with enjoyable activities. Marianna shared with FOX 13, “We made the decision to take her camping and paddleboarding to tire her out.”
While Maggie relished in some fun summer adventures, her owners knew she might not see another winter, her favorite season.
With playing in the snow being Maggie’s beloved pastime, experiencing one last snowy day became a top priority on her bucket list. Despite the unlikely weather forecast, Maggie’s owners were determined to grant her wish.
Knowing that snowfall was unlikely, they turned to social media, posting a plea on Facebook in search of an ice shaver.
Their breakthrough came when a suggestion was made to create an ice rink, harnessing the Zamboni ice shavings to produce the snow they needed.
The Salt Lake County Ice Center responded eagerly, embracing the opportunity to make Maggie’s dream a reality.
Using a Zamboni, the ice center shaved ice from the rink, packaged it up, and delivered it to the family’s home, enabling Maggie to revel in her snowy paradise right in her backyard over the weekend.
A special sign was even placed on the snow heap, declaring it “MAGGIE’S SNOW.”
As per a Facebook post by Salt Lake County Parks and Recreation, “Maggie enjoyed it with her family,” capturing heartwarming images of the dog blissfully basking in the snow.
Although Maggie has since passed away, the act of kindness allowed her to check off everything on her bucket list, ensuring she experienced a final “snow day” despite not making it to another winter.
Salt Lake County Parks and Recreation expressed their sympathy, writing, “We send our love and condolences to Maggie’s family. We appreciate the unique privilege of giving her a little bit of heaven on earth.”
Maggie’s owners find solace in knowing that their cherished pet brought joy to many in her last days.
Marianna shared with FOX 13, “To see people from all walks of life come together for our dog, that was amazing. She inspired us, and now she gets to inspire so many others. That is the best way to keep her memory alive.”
Saying goodbye to a pet is incredibly difficult, but it brings comfort to know that Maggie’s final moments were filled with joy, thanks to the compassionate individuals at the ice rink.
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