This retirement home for animals is the sweetest idea

Animal shelters are a great way to rescue abandoned pets, but they are often overcrowded and understaffed.

A women in Belgium has decided to come up with her own solution for the animals she holds so dear to her heart.

Valerie Luycx had the fantastic idea of opening a retirement home for pets in southern Belgium.

According to BBC News, the home, Les Petits Vieux (The Little Old Ones), was opened in 2000 and has quickly gained popularity, accommodating a total of 150 animals.

It is located in the rural area of Chievres in the Hainaut province, so that there is plenty of land for the pets to roam free in an enclosed area.

But Valerie does not only look after household cats and dogs. The animal lover also houses ponies, goats, and a massive, pot-bellied pig named Pastis.

All animals residing in the home are elderly or have health issues that required too much time for their original owners to mind them.

Valerie runs the retirement home with her husband Serge. They love their jobs, and find joy in being able to show their furry friends love and attention in their final days.

Some of the oldest residents are Azuria, a 15-year-old European cat, and Choupy, a 14-year-old Yorkshire Terrier.

Valerie told BBC that her and her husband’s goal was “to recreate family life for the animals.”

Other four-legged guests include Ramses, a nine-year-old Carlin dog, Yam, a nine-year-old Saint Bernard dog, and a grumpy, grey cat named Calin.

The elderly animals are enjoying retired life and can be found lounging on sofas when they are not socialising.

Les Petits Vieux is a fantastic shelter that provides a unique way for Valerie and Serge to do what they love while their pets get the affection they crave.