article by Jessica Renstrom |  photos by Jamie Blotske

Dogs hold a special place in our hearts, offering unconditional love, loyalty, and companionship. While some are cherished through their golden years, others aren’t as lucky – abandoned, surrendered, or simply forgotten when they need care the most. At Pooch’z B&B, a sanctuary nestled in Billings’ West End, senior dogs aren’t cast aside. They’re embraced, nurtured, and given the forever home they deserve.

A DREAM BORN FROM LOVE

Pooch’z B&B was founded by three healthcare professionals, Marge Hall, Bill Hall, and Sandi Bell, who left their careers in healthcare to provide full-time dedication and care to senior dogs. Their mission? “To help as many seniors as we can,” says Marge. They named the sanctuary in honor of their beloved Chihuahua mix, Pooch, who lived to be 19 years old.

Spread across 2.5 fenced acres, Pooch’z B&B features a secure layout with six-foot vinyl fencing and double-gated systems, offering three separate yards where dogs can roam and play safely. The dogs live within the home itself with beds in every room, cozy sleeping spots, and round-the-clock human companionship.

THE DOGS OF POOCH’Z

Senior dogs arrive at Pooch’z B&B through a variety of often heart-wrenching circumstances. Some have lost their owners to illness or death; others have been abandoned or left behind when families move. Some come from shelters, where senior dogs face grim odds (only 1 in 4 senior dogs are adopted), and many are part of bonded pairs that most adopters aren't willing to take together.

Though many have unknown histories, Pooch’z offers them all a second chance. “We often don't know their past, but it's incredible seeing them blossom here,” says Marge.

A PACK THAT HEALS TOGETHER

Since opening in 2020, the sanctuary has welcomed 49 senior dogs. Many arrive in less-than-ideal shape, but under the care at Pooch’z, dogs flourish. Tailored nutrition, spacious yards, and individualized care help them regain health and spirit. On average, they stay 21 months, a testament to the love and stability they receive.

The staff at Pooch’z go above and beyond for their dogs, such as learning Spanish to communicate with a pup who only responds to Spanish commands, and tackling 8 to 10 loads of laundry a day to keep the sanctuary clean and comfortable.

THE HEARTBREAK AND THE HEALING

Despite the joy, the hardest part of what they do is inevitable: losing a senior. Each time, the staff, volunteers, and pack all grieve, but they find strength in the mission and the love they have left to give. As Bill so eloquently describes their grief: “It breaks our hearts just enough to bring another one in.”

HOW YOU CAN HELP

Want to make a difference in the lives of senior dogs?

Here’s how you can support Pooch’z:

Donate – The biggest need is financial support. Veterinary care, medications, and specialized nutrition add up quickly. It costs over $300 per month per dog to provide the level of care Pooch’z offers.

Volunteer – Pooch’z relies on help from its volunteers for many tasks, including cleaning, yard work, and cooking treats.

Supply needed items – Call Pooch’z to see what items they need, since storage space is limited. This month, they’re especially in need of canned pumpkin.

Stay connected – Follow Pooch’z on Facebook or check out their website for updates, wish lists, and upcoming events, like their annual BINGO event every September.

“DOGS ARE NOT OUR WHOLE LIFE, BUT THEY MAKE OUR LIVES WHOLE.”

– RODGER CARAS 

Originally printed in the October 2025 issue of Simply Local Magazine

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