Exclusive Dog Sanctuary Honors Man’s Best Friend

In St. Johnsbury, Vermont, there is a place where dogs can bark to their heart’s delight and roam free with their furry friends. It’s called Dog Mountain, a dog sanctuary just for them where they can unleash their canine spirits.

“Being up here, having a place for the dogs makes all the difference in the world. Dog Mountain is a place where dogs can really connect with nature and enjoy spending time outdoors with their owners,” creative director Amanda McDermott told Great Big Story.

On Dog Mountain, there also is a dedicated Dog Chapel where humans can go to commemorate, remember, and celebrate man’s best friend.

“Having a place like the Dog Chapel really helps people say goodbye or also just leave a message about how much they love them,” McDermott said.

Artist Stephen Huneck — a dog lover and owner himself — detested the phrase, “it’s just a dog.” He built the chapel with life-sized busts to honor them.

Stained glass portraits of his beloved black Labrador line the walls.

People from all over the country make a pilgrimage to the Dog Chapel, leaving post-it notes with messages for their pets who have died.

They leave with the comfort of knowing they will remain there for years to come.

Dog owners who visit Dog Mountain and the Dog Chapel recognize it as a place of reverence.

“It’s a one-of-a-kind place that we have here that allows dogs to really shine and cherished as the wonderful little creatures that they are,” McDermott told Great Big Story.

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BONUS VIDEO: Senior dogs can live out their days in peace at this dog sanctuary.