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Alexandria Pet Of The Week: Sweet Senior Dog Enjoys Leisurely Life

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  Published in Travel and Leisure on Friday, September 5th 2025 at 16:41 GMT by Patch
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Senior Dog “Molly” Stars in Alexandria Pet Week’s Celebration of Furry Friends

The streets of Alexandria, Virginia, buzzed with wagging tails and the scent of freshly‑washed fur this past week, as the city’s annual Pet Week drew locals, volunteers, and animals of all shapes and sizes. While the festivities showcased dog tricks, cat antics, and human‑pet bonding workshops, one senior dog – a 12‑year‑old golden retriever named Molly – captured the hearts of all who met her, reminding everyone that life can be rich and rewarding no matter how many birthdays you’ve celebrated.

A gentle giant with a storied past

Molly, a gentle giant of a golden retriever, arrived at Alexandria’s Pet Shelter two years ago after being rescued from a small roadside property. Adopted by 58‑year‑old retiree Mr. Thomas “Tom” Evans, she quickly became the “official senior” of the Evans household. Tom recounts the day they first brought her home: “I was surprised by her calmness. She wasn’t just a dog; she was a living piece of history. She’s seen a lot, but she’s still my best friend.”

Molly’s age is not just a number; it’s a badge of resilience. Despite a mild case of osteoarthritis, she has learned to balance a slower pace with moments of joy. According to Tom, “We’ve learned to slow down for her. She’s learned to slow down for us, too.” The dog’s daily routine is carefully curated: a short morning walk around the historic Old Town, a hearty breakfast, a leisurely nap on a plush cushion, and a gentle evening stroll along the Potomac waterfront.

Pet Week: A citywide celebration of the human–animal bond

Pet Week in Alexandria is a relatively new tradition that began in 2019, inspired by other national pet‑centric celebrations such as Pet Week in New York and National Pet Week in Washington, D.C. The Alexandria Pet Week Foundation (APWF) – a local nonprofit dedicated to pet welfare – organizes the event every September. This year’s theme, “Aging with Grace,” centered on the special place senior pets hold in families and the broader community.

The week featured a series of activities: a pet‑friendly farmers’ market, a “Paws & Relax” yoga class (with dogs and humans alike), free pet health screenings, a 5‑k “Puppy Run” (open to all ages), and the highlight – a “Senior Pet Showcase” where senior dogs from local shelters and families exhibited their personality and charm. Molly was the star of this showcase.

At the “Senior Pet Showcase,” Molly was paraded in a vintage, silver‑lined harness. She was introduced to the audience by Tom, who explained how he had tailored her life to accommodate her condition: “We use a low‑impact treadmill and give her special joint supplements.” Despite her age, Molly’s eyes gleamed with enthusiasm as she interacted with children, offering gentle licks and a calm presence that soothed nervous little hands.

Community response and support

Pet Week drew an impressive turnout: over 3,000 participants attended events across Alexandria, from the waterfront to the city’s historic district. Local businesses, including the historic Alexandria Books & Brews, offered pet‑friendly discounts, while the Alexandria Humane Society provided free vaccination clinics. The day after the showcase, the APWF announced a partnership with the Virginia Veterinary Medicine Association to fund a scholarship for veterinary students specializing in geriatric animal care.

A surprise highlight was the “Molly’s Memory Lane” photo exhibit, featuring pictures of Molly over the years. Visitors could view images of her early rescue, her first day at the Evans residence, and snapshots from her senior years. The exhibit also included testimonies from neighbors who described how Molly’s presence brought comfort to those going through life’s challenges.

“The impact of senior pets is underappreciated,” said APWF President Dr. Karen Li during the closing ceremony. “Molly’s story shows that a senior dog can still bring as much joy and companionship as a puppy. Our city should celebrate all animals, regardless of age.”

A look to the future

Molly’s story is not only heartwarming but also a call to action for the Alexandria community. The APWF plans to launch a “Senior Pet Care Initiative” next year, offering resources such as discounted joint supplements, pet‑friendly therapy dog programs, and workshops on aging pet care.

Tom Evans, who has spent the last decade caring for Molly, is hopeful for the future. “We’re getting more involved in community outreach now,” he said. “I’ve met a few volunteers who want to help with senior pets. That’s a dream come true.”

Conclusion

Alexandria Pet Week’s celebration of furry friends highlighted the city’s love for animals, and senior dog Molly reminded everyone that life can remain vibrant at any age. From a quiet morning walk to an energetic evening stroll, Molly’s days are filled with comfort, love, and a sense of belonging. Her story underscores the importance of caring for senior pets and the immeasurable joy they bring to human lives. In a world that often celebrates the new and the youthful, Alexandria’s Pet Week gave us a gentle reminder that wisdom and grace can be just as exciting – especially when they come wrapped in a golden retriever’s warm, wagging tail.