Yesterday, I was made aware of Angel’s Gate, “a residential, non-profit home for special needs animals.” Ultimately, it is a hospice for animals who are terminally and/or critically ill or physically challenged. No animal is turned away, and at present there are 200 species including dogs, cats, parrots, ponies, ducks, swan, pigeons, geese, chickens and rabbits.

Angel’s Gate was founded and is run by Susan Marino and Victor LaBruna as well as some of their eight children. These saints rely solely on donations for upkeep and the animals’ well-being. Reportedly, the monthly cost for food alone is $4000.00.

Only 5 minutes of yesterday’s Oprah was devoted to informing people of this organization, but honestly, that’s all the time that is needed. Once the viewer sees these animals racing each other in their doggie wheelchairs, strengthening their legs in hydrotherapy pools, and being loved unconditionally by the owners and other Angel’s Gate volunteers, s/he can’t help but be touched.

Yes, some cases are extremely sad. For instance, one sweet little Pomeranian, diagnosed with Shaken Dog Syndrome, is paralyzed from the neck down because of her despicable owner (above). And, yes, animals do die frequently. However, the many wagging tails, nuzzling muzzles, and playful spirits of these animals suggest that they are both happy and loved–and they will be for the rest of their lives, no matter how long that may be.

Without a doubt, Angel’s Gate and the people who run it are the embodiment of everything that is good in this world.