Senior Rescue Dachshund Carrying Blanket Wherever He Goes Redefines 'BYOB'

There's no arguing that sweet old doggies and kitties only deserve the best in this world, hopefully receiving plenty of extra love as they age. So, it warms the heart to know that there are places for these loving pets to go when they need it most, like this 20-year-old dachshund named Sprout, who's spending his elder years at a retirement home and hospice for senior dogs, where they let him "BYOB," as you can plainly see in this heart-warming Instagram video.

"BYOB means something different at VPR," notes the clip's caption, posted on the page of Vintage Pet Rescue (VPR), a non-profit organization taking care of Sprout in his final years. As anyone watching can see, it means: "Bring Your Own Blanket," as sweet old Sprout is shown casually walking with a cozy blankie covering his low-slung doxie body.

A fan favorite on VPR's Instagram account, Sprout receives nothing but words of love and encouragement in the comments, from "Sprout brings happiness to so many yet has no clue of his superpower" to "Awwww😍here comes the kingggg lol his blanket is his royal robe." When asked why Sprout is in their care, VPR replies that his owner sadly died, and many thank VPR for being so dedicated to rescuing and providing loving care to dogs like him, with one person saying, "Sprout you're the bestest boy my heart is full of joy knowing you're safe and loved ❤️."

There are many senior pets like Sprout in shelters and rescues across the country, winding up in such places because their owners passed or their families were no longer willing or able to care for them as they aged. It's a sad reality, but fortunately, there are organizations like the one Sprout wound up at that try to assist as much as they can. To that end, here are some easy ways you can help senior dogs (and cats) who wind up in animal shelters and at non-profit rescues.

First and foremost, animal shelters and non-profit rescue organizations are always in need of adopters and donations to keep things going, whether that's monetary or gifting pet food, supplies, and, yes, even blankets and towels. A little can go a long way, especially for small, local rescues. If you can't adopt or afford to give money, there are always other ways to help pet shelters, like offering to volunteer your time, whether that means helping out with the animals, providing transportation, or just spreading the word.

As mentioned, there are plenty of shelters and rescues looking to find suitable forever families or fosters for senior animals, so fostering or adopting a dog or cat and providing a safe, loving home for them is also something you could consider if you think you are ready to adopt. No matter what, though, just showing kindness and compassion for older animals during their time of need is always appreciated.