The couple met when she was only 16 years old and fell madly in love with each other. The high school sweethearts waited until Liz finished high school to tie the knot.
They seemed to be enthralled with starting a new life together, and for a while, their future looked bright. The couple welcomed their first child, Ollie, and the three of them led a happy life for more than 25 years. But sadly, some relationships fizzle out, especially after spending so many years together.
After holding back for some time, Mike decided he needed to talk to Liz, and he didn’t mince words. “My husband said: It’s either the dogs or me,” Liz recalls. Even though he was putting her between a rock and a hard place, Liz knew exactly who she’d choose.
Well, Liz decided to start a project that truly resonated with her: Beds for Bullies, a foundation that rescues, protects and gives shelter to dogs who are in desperate need of love, medical care, and food. Liz’s entire life revolved around her rescue pups, whom she absolutely loved. But some of the dogs had serious medical conditions and behavioral issues that prevented them from going to a new home.
Mike simply couldn’t comprehend how one person could have so much love for dogs, but being around these lovely furry creatures was something that came naturally to her. Liz’s mother used to raise West Highland Terrier, and her dad owned an animal feed business.
“I thought that, after 25 years, he should’ve known that giving up dogs was not a part of my intentions, not at all. He knew from the moment we got married what I was all about. I don’t know what he expected,” she recalled. Sadly, there wasn’t much Liz could do. The couple had drifted apart after they each focused on their own personal goals. He was too busy with work, and Liz took refuge in her beloved dogs.
Not only does she make sure the dogs are happy and loved, but she also takes them for a walk, feeds, and bathes them. Beds for Bullies is fortunately still up and running thanks to generous donations and a small side business Liz started which allows dog owners to go on vacation while Liz babysits their dogs.
But she also makes sure to make them a part of her family. For a while, things weren’t looking so great, as the veterinary bills kept stacking up, forcing Liz to live in a tent. But thankfully, things started picking up really soon, and she’s now doing really well. And if you ask her, she’d tell you that she couldn’t be happier with her life choices. “I’ve chosen to do this, and I love it,” said Liz.
