Misty Jo wasn’t just a beloved pet, she was family.
“She taught me about unconditional love, devotion, and the incredible bond we share with our pets.” says Tiffany Obermeyer. “She also inspired me to think about what might happen to a beloved pet if they suddenly lost the person they depend on most.”
That question stayed with Tiffany. While working alongside Attorney Tina Parsley Hughes with Lighthouse Legal, she realized one day that she was one of very few who asked this question. When a client came in to start a pet trust, it was clear many families never considered what would happen to their pet(s) if they entered memory care, became ill, or passed away.
“This opened my eyes to situations where older adults experienced a health crisis or moved into care communities, leaving their pets without a clear plan,” Tiffany says. Dogs who had spent their lives providing comfort and companionship were suddenly frightened, displaced and facing an uncertain future.
Inspired by Misty Jo and the need they witnessed firsthand, Tiffany and Tina founded Misty Jo Dogwatch.
Built on compassion, dignity, and advocacy, the organization’s mission is to ensure no senior dog is forgotten during life’s transitions.
“Senior dogs have spent their lives caring for us; we owe them a future that is just as faithful as they have been.”
Since the founding of Misty Jo Dogwatch, they have helped 16 dogs receive the care and support they need through temporary assistance, long-term planning or placement in a new home.
“Here at Misty Jo Dogwatch, we provide a safety net for senior dogs. We assess each dog’s needs, coordinate care, connect families with resources, and advocate for the best possible outcome.”
When a family reaches out, the process begins with learning everything there is to know about the dog, including its personality, routines, medical needs, history, and even its favorite things. Then, the team develops a plan focused on stability, care, and the best possible placement or support system. “Our goal is to minimize stress and maximize comfort,” Tiffany shared.
While Misty Jo Dogwatch is there to help families during difficult transitions, Tiffany believes the best time to make a plan is before a crisis ever happens. She says a conversation, written instructions or a pet trust can make all the difference.
- Identify a trusted caregiver and have a conversation with them.
- Include your pets in your estate planning documents.
- Keep your pet’s medical records and routines organized.
- Consider establishing a pet trust or pet care provisions.
- Review your plan regularly.
These conversations aren't always easy because they involve aging, illness, disability and mortality. But avoiding them doesn't eliminate the need; it simply makes future decisions more difficult for both families and their pets. Without a plan, pets may end up in shelters, be shuffled between family members or experience prolonged periods of uncertainty.
“If you have aging family members, ask the questions now: ‘What would happen to their dog?’” Tiffany said. It might just be one of the most loving conversations a family can have because best friends deserve a plan.”
For those who want to make a difference, Tiffany says every act of kindness matters. A donation can provide food, cover a veterinary bill or help transport a dog to safety.
“We’re creating a community where pets are protected, families have peace of mind, and every best friend has a plan.”