WE WELCOME YOU
Providing resources and opportunities that enrich,
protect and extend the lives of senior dogs.
GRAY MUZZLE
AT A GLANCE
We are dedicated to the belief that senior dogs are not disposable commodities but rather valued members of our communities. We are not an animal shelter or breed specific rescue. We provide grant funding to nonprofit organizations that create or sustain innovative programs or medical care supporting the quality of life for aging senior dogs.
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OUR BOARD
Sherry Ahlman | Denise Bonneson
Debby Lewis | Julie Severson
Laura Shinkan | Carol Valk
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OUR ADVISORY BOARD
Carol Beck, Canine Behaviorist and Trainer
Kay C. Gibson, Financial Advisor
Kaukauna Veterinary Clinic, Veterinary Health Advisors
Lisa Gavronski, Creative Consultant
Nancy Mills, J.D.
Jackie Peters, Marketing Consultant
OUR VISION
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Senior dogs make wonderful companions, bringing wisdom, loyalty, patience and boundless, unconditional love into our lives.
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No dog is a disposable commodity but rather a valued member of our community.
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Senior dogs deserve to live long and productive lives and not be penalized because of their age.
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All senior dogs should be afforded the opportunity of a new quality home when their existing home is eliminated.
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Dog ownership is a privilege and a commitment to provide quality life-long care.
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All senior dogs deserve the right to pass peacefully and with respect based on their deteriorating quality of life or if the dog has become a threat to itself or others.
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In providing transparency for the donors and supporters who make the work of the Gray Muzzle Organization of NE Wisconsin possible.
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In open, respectful discussion and honest decision making while working with diverse statewide groups that share the organization's core values and dedication to senior dogs.
GUIDELINES FOR GRANT FUNDING
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Medical care and rehabilitation expenses for senior dogs
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Programs that train senior dogs as therapy dogs
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Innovative adoption programs that find new homes for senior dogs
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Medical expenses for short-term in-home hospice care for senior dogs that provide a pain-free, peaceful and secure environment for final days
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Projects that provide life enrichment for senior dogs
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Funding for senior pet food pantries
CRITERIA FOR GRANT FUNDING
Organizations under consideration must:
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Be chartered as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization by the IRS
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Provide an annual report from the Department of Financial Institution
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Provide a letter of Determination
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Be in good standing with the state of Wisconsin and the IRS
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Provide additional references upon request
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Provide a quality home as an indoor companion pet if funding is for a dog or dogs
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Allow the dog or project to be photographed and the story be used in Gray Muzzle materials
GRANT PROCESS
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Simply submit the required documents as listed and a 1-2 page letter outlining the project or dog(s) that require funding.
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Mail to Gray Muzzle Organization, PO Box 7031, Appleton, WI 54912
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Include the amount of funding you are requesting. Grants are generally given in the amount of $1,000 to $5,000; however, larger amounts are considered.
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Once we receive your information, the board of directors will meet to review your request. We understand that when dealing with a medical situation, a quick response is necessary, and our process has been developed to accommodate that.
OUR FUNDS
After Gray Muzzle was born in 2019 as a grant-based organization, it became clear that there was an enormous need for community-based programs. To help in this effort, the following funds were established thanks to generous, committed donors:
DUNCAN MCGREGOR FOOD PANTRY FUND
Provides funding for a senior dog food pantry at LEAVEN to enable its clients to care for their beloved companions.
BREEZY & CASEY MEDICAL FUND
Awards grants for humane societies and rescues to provide medical assistance/rehabilitation or develop programs for senior dogs.
HOPE COMMUNITY PROJECTS NEEDY DOG FUND
Offers funds for clients of approved nonprofits (that do not house or adopt dogs out) to cover medical expenses that enhance the quality of life for their senior dogs.
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SMILES FOR ZOE FUND
Dogs who have not had routine care during their lifetime often suffer from dental issues leading to other medical consequences. This fund provides funding for LEAVEN clients and senior rescue dogs who are in need of veterinary dental work.
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"Gray Muzzle's wellness clinics are a godsend for our clients. Many of them are socially isolated and their dogs are their closest companions. The generosity of this organization can be literally life-saving to the dogs and figuratively life-saving to the pet owners."
Mary Parsons, executive director, LEAVEN
"Gray Muzzle is an outstanding, dedicated group of people who have helped us multiple times in providing medical care for several of our older dogs."
Patti Muraczewski, Bichon & Little Buddies Rescue
"Thank you so much. I am struggling and because of your organization, I can feed my dog. He is all that I have.
Client of Pillars
MAKE A DONATION
If you have the means to help us with our mission of saving local senior dogs, please consider a tax-deductible donation!
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Or mail your check to PO Box 7031, Appleton, WI 54912
Your gift is tax-deductible to the full extent provided by law.
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