Founder’s Story

Pepper’s Senior Dog Sanctuary was founded in 2019 by a trio of dedicated senior dog advocates: Justin Klemer, his mom, Mary, and Leigh Sullivan.

All three are Colorado natives, lifelong animal rescuers and proud foster fails who have saved and nurtured dozens of dogs. 

The namesake comes from a special Pomeranian named Pepper. Mary discovered Pepper after she found herself struggling with depression. After a difficult time, she decided to pivot her energy to taking care of something greater than herself. She went to a local dog shelter and as they lined up adoptable candidates, she chose the “jankiest looking dog in the room”. She later realized that she was never there to save him, he was there to save her. 

Pepper was a dog who needed others to see the incredible worth of an old soul, and found the love and safety that he desperately needed. His life had been difficult, until he met Mary and spent the remainder of his years being pampered by her compassion and acceptance of all his quirks, gifts, and unconditional love. 

Pepper became Mary’s sober companion and went through many ups and downs together, but no matter what they were there for each other. When Pepper finally passed, Mary made a promise to Pepper that she would do something in his honor. At the time, she didn’t know what it would be, but with the help of her family, friends and local community, they embarked on a journey to build Pepper’s Senior Dog Sanctuary. 

Pepper’s legacy teaches us to appreciate the connection and purpose we find within each other and the honor it is to care for the most vulnerable among us, human and animal alike. As Pepper showed us, senior dogs have so much wisdom left to share and love left to give.