Woman Turns Closet Into Bedroom for Senior Rescue Dog: 'Deserves the World'

For senior dogs, what they desire most is usually sleep – and lots of it. That's why Susan Kennon raised money for her dog's 15th birthday to create the perfect bedroom just for him.

Ever since he was rescued nearly 14 years ago, Zark, part Australian shepherd and part Australian cattle dog, has loved his home comforts. Last year, Kennon, 38, decided it was time that he had plenty of his own space to snooze. Given she had a closet in her Wisconsin home that didn't fit all her clothes, the devoted dog mom told Newsweek how she transformed it into "his safe space."

But a new bedroom wouldn't be complete without a new bed, so Kennon and her friends pooled together for Zark's birthday in October to get him "the best bed on the market," and now he couldn't be happier.

"Looking at that closet stressed me out because it was constantly overflowing, so I moved my actual closet down to my basement," she said. "Zark is old, he's warty, mostly blind, and he has arthritis in his hips so he can't safely get on and off my bed, yet he still wants to sleep in my room with me. Since I like to take care of him, his beds are pretty big so he can stretch out and his hips have support. While tidying up one day, I tossed his old bed into the closet and it fit, so I had a thought that it could be his bedroom."

The new bed that she wanted to get for Zark cost $300, but Kennon's friends and family were more than happy to help out to celebrate his momentous 15th birthday. Now, her best friend can stretch out every night in complete comfort. As a finishing touch, she put some framed images from his younger days on the walls to give it a personal feel.

"He's an old dog that deserves the world, but instead he has a comfy bed in a closet surrounded by memories of all his adventures," Kennon said.

Caring for an Older Dog

It's certainly not imperative to give every senior dog their own bedroom, but there are many things that owners can do to support and care for their older pup. It's vital that they have their own comfortable places to rest that are soft, as hard flooring can cause them pain or stiffness. The American Kennel Club (AKC) highlights how they often love being around their owner, so having dog beds dotted around the home allows them to relax wherever you are, without climbing up onto sofas or their owner's beds.

As dogs get older, they are also more susceptible to harsh weather, so the AKC recommends being mindful of hot and cold temperatures. Be sure to give them extra blankets or put a coat on them when it's cold, and during the summer they need to be kept cool and hydrated.

They might not like hearing this last piece of advice, but adjusting their diet is key. As they age, dogs become less active, so weight gain is a common problem. Owners should ensure they aren't consuming too many calories, while also incorporating different nutrients that they need in their senior years.

Reaction to the Closet Bedroom

Zark loves his new bedroom, but if he thinks it's only for him, he's got another thing coming. There's just enough room in there for Kennon to squeeze in and get some "good cuddles before bed." Now, whenever she wakes up, she's greeted with the sight of one happy dog (and the sound of his snoring).

Kennon told Newsweek: "I know every day I have with him is a miracle as 15 is old for a big dog. He still comes out with me to the barn and goes on trail rides while I ride my horses (when he gets tired, he just walks himself back to the barn). Blessed to have him in my life doesn't even cover the feelings I have about still being able to have him by my side."

She shared the image of Zark appreciating his new bed on the Facebook group Our Old House, as she hopes to inspire other people to get creative with the unwanted spaces in their home. Seeing how happy it's made Zark is a "simple joy" she just had to share with the world.

Since the post was shared on January 23, it has gained over 45,000 reactions and been shared more than 520 times on Facebook. Hundreds of people commented on the post to praise Kennon's love for Zark, and others shared the quirky setups they've created for their own pets.

One comment reads: "I wish I had a nice closet like that for my 15 year old sweet guy!"

Another person joked that it's: "Optimal use of the space."

"Only animal lovers understand putting up family pictures for their babies," wrote another Facebook user.

Do you have funny and adorable videos or pictures of your pet you want to share? Send them to life@newsweek.com with some details about your best friend and they could appear in our Pet of the Week lineup.