Hickory – Old dogs have something to wag about this summer, as The Grey Muzzle Organization announces the recipients of its annual grants, and dogs at Humane Society of Catawba County (HSCC) are among the winners.

HSCC in Hickory is one of 64 animal welfare groups chosen from 288 applicants to receive a grant to help local senior dogs. The winning groups received more than $510,000 in grants to help save or improve the lives of at-risk old dogs in their communities.

This grant will provide reduced cost in required bloodwork for dogs 6 and older who are brought to the shelter for spay/neuter surgery by the public. The regular cost for bloodwork is $100. With help from this grant, the amount will now be reduced to $50. If a senior dog is owned by a senior citizen (65 and older) or a Disabled American Veteran, bloodwork will be completed at no charge. “This grant will help us give senior dogs the veterinary care they need to live out their happy golden years,” said Erin Hooks of HSCC. “No one is more grateful or loving than an old dog, and we’re looking forward to helping more senior dogs get the second chance they all deserve.”

Over the past 12 years, the national nonprofit Grey Muzzle Organization has provided $2.5 million in grants to support its vision of “a world where no old dog dies alone and afraid.”

“Thanks to the generosity of our donors, we’re delighted to help deserving organizations like Humane Society of Catawba County make a difference in the lives of dogs and people in their communities,” Grey Muzzle’s Executive Director Lisa Lunghofer said. “Many senior dogs in Catawba County and surrounding areas are enjoying their golden years in loving homes thanks to the wonderful work of HSCC.”

HSCC’s mission is to make our community a better place by serving as an advocate for companion animals. HSCC’s vision for the future is that no adoptable animal will be euthanized in Catawba County, and that animal cruelty and inhumane treatment of animals will cease to exist. Information on services and adoptions is available at www.catawbahumane.org.

The national nonprofit The Grey Muzzle Organization improves the lives of at-risk senior dogs by providing funding and resources to animal shelters, rescue organizations, sanctuaries, and other nonprofit groups nationwide. For details, please visit www.greymuzzle.org.

Photo: Skip is one of many great senior dogs available for adoption at Humane Society of Catawba County.