Senior Artists Paint Portraits of Shelter Dogs

Residents at the Virginian Senior Living Community recently spent a special afternoon painting portraits of senior shelter dogs. Their artwork is helping these older dogs find homes while continuing the legacy of a special young girl.

The Story Behind Draw for Paws

Behind these colorful canvases is a touching story of an 8-year-old named Scarlett Chwatko. Scarlett had big dreams - she wanted to be a professional soccer player, an artist, and a veterinarian. She loved animals so much that she often said she wanted to adopt every animal in the world.

Scarlett combined her passion for animals and art by starting Draw4Paws. Her concept was simple but powerful: for a donation of $20 or more to animal rescue, she would create a portrait of your pet.

Tragically, Scarlett passed away from cancer in 2019. But her vision lives on thanks to three dedicated friends who call themselves the "ScarlySqaud." These friends made a promise to fulfill Scarlett's mission and continue her legacy of helping animals through art.

The Grand Paws Initiative

The event at the senior center was part of a new program called the Grand Paws initiative. This program focuses specifically on helping senior animals find loving homes where they can enjoy their golden years.

At the Virginian Senior Living Community, residents created portraits of three senior dogs from the Homeward Trails Animal Rescue in Fairfax, Virginia. The beautiful artwork helps put a spotlight on these often-overlooked animals.

Success Stories and Ongoing Mission

The initiative is already showing success. Of the three senior dogs that were painted at the event, two have already found new homes. Beau and Callie have been adopted, while Pippa is still waiting for her perfect match.

Draw for Paws continues to grow beyond the senior center. The organization welcomes artists of all ages to join their mission by creating pet portraits. Anyone inspired by Scarlett's vision can sign up to be an artist through their website.

How You Can Help

If you love art and helping animals, you can be part of continuing Scarlett's mission. Consider creating pet portraits or supporting the organization in other ways. Through these simple acts of creativity and kindness, more shelter animals can find the loving homes they deserve.

The collaboration between seniors and senior dogs shows how art can build connections across generations while making a real difference in animals' lives.