For many senior dogs facing serious medical conditions or end-of-life challenges, a second chance comes in the form of a sanctuary in Marathon dedicated to providing comfort, care and dignity during their final years.
Payton’s Promise Founder Karen Thomas joined Good Morning Keys on Keys Talk 96.9/102.5FM to talk about the organization.
“We take high-risk senior dogs who have special medical needs or are hospice, end-of-life cases out of high-volume shelters,” Thomas said. “They can spend the rest of their lives with us here at the sanctuary, or if their medical conditions can be rehabilitated and they reach optimal health, they can be adopted.”
Based in Marathon, the nonprofit organization is entirely volunteer-run and relies heavily on community donations to cover medical care, food and daily expenses. Thomas noted that one of the most common reasons senior pets are surrendered to shelters is the high cost of veterinary care.
“Those vet bills do add up,” she said. “But they are worthy and deserving, just like the young ones, to have a healthy, happy rest of their lives.”
The sanctuary was inspired by a special-needs German Shepherd named Payton Rose, whom Thomas met while volunteering at the Florida Keys SPCA’s Marathon campus. After adopting Payton and caring for her through the final chapter of her life, Thomas made a promise to create a sanctuary dedicated to helping other senior dogs facing similar circumstances.
“I said, ‘Payton, I promise you, when I see you through your journey, I will start the sanctuary,’” Thomas recalled. “From there, everything just got the ball rolling.”
Today, Payton’s Promise cares for dogs with a variety of chronic health conditions, many requiring lifelong medications and specialized care. While some residents remain at the sanctuary permanently, others recover enough to become available for adoption.
Among them is Lily, a 13-year-old husky rescued last fall who has responded remarkably well to treatment.
“She’s doing amazing,” Thomas said. “Some of these dogs surprise us. They came in in really poor health, and the energy levels they have now are just incredible.”
The organization currently has several senior dogs available for adoption and continues to evaluate newly rescued animals for potential placement in forever homes.
Thomas says enrichment and quality of life are central to the sanctuary’s mission.
“One of our mottos is to make the rest of their life the best of their life,” she said.
That commitment includes daily activities tailored to each dog’s personality, as well as special treats, cooling activities during the summer months and individualized attention.
Looking ahead, Payton’s Promise plans to launch a fundraising raffle in July featuring a stand-up electric scooter, with proceeds benefiting the sanctuary’s ongoing operations and veterinary expenses.
Thomas encourages anyone considering adopting a pet to look beyond puppies and younger animals.
“Senior dogs are so joyful and so full of love,” she said. “They’re wise, they’re worthy, and they provide unconditional love.”
For Thomas, the mission remains deeply personal.
“It’s my passion and my mission,” she said. “I love each and every one of them.”
Those interested in supporting the sanctuary through donations, volunteering or adoption opportunities can learn more here: https://paytonspromisesanctuary.org/