Courtesy of Zach Skow and Marley's Mutts
16. Zach Skow
Dogs saved Zach Skow’s life and now he’s saving theirs. This year his nonprofit shelter, Marley’s Mutts, placed its 350th dog in a loving home.
Three years ago Skow was looking death in the eye, facing end-stage liver disease, having struggled with alcoholism and drug problems since he was a teenager.
Upon the recommendation of his doctors he took up exercise with his father’s dogs, and to his surprise, found they gave him all the motivation he needed to return to health.
“They never left my side so they made me feel loved and appreciated,” he says. “Love was something I couldn’t give to myself.”
Once he was in better health, in June 2009, Skow set up Marley’s Mutts, which specializes in large dogs. He works closely with all of the dogs, rehabilitating them, and helping them feel comfortable around humans. Large dogs, he says, are the hardest to place—but thanks to his help, hundreds of dogs now have new families.
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Comments (7)
What a great story and a kind man! I also believe animals bring out the best in us and we always need that connection to nature. Great Job Zach! So proud of all you have done and the people and dogs you have brought together!! Saralee
I've worked with Zach since near the beginning (July 2009) and he never fails to amaze and inspire me. You rock, Zach!
It's a well known fact that when you are down and out and feel awful that petting an animal makes you feel sooooo much better and this is soooo true. I have three cats and they have been my medicine many,many,many times. I'm so glad that Zach was able to find this kind of love from his Dad's dogs and that he now has found a way to help dogs feel the love of humans who haven't felt this before. I love the St. Bernard that he has in this picture with him. These dogs are so amazing. My son has one named Tonka and he's the most loving dog once you get past the druels LOL. He looks just like Beethoven off the movie and is a big teddy bear. Keep up the great work Zach, animals will be your best friend even if no one else is and I believe that with all my heart.
I'm seriously a fan of Zach and all his efforts. He shows us what can be done if you have the heart for it. Congratulations on this award!
He is fantastic.Congratulations!