Sher Polvinale and her husband Joe, before his death in 2008, took care of as many unwanted dogs and cats as they could rescue for more than 30 years.
Now, at 69-years-old Sher runs House With a Heart, a non-profit retirement home, where older pets can live out their remaining days with dignity and comfort.
“I miss him every day, but I know he’d be proud that we’re still taking in as many senior pets as we can and treating them with compassion in their final years,” she tells PEOPLE. “In order to feel happy and fulfilled in life, everyone needs a passion. This has become mine.”