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Couple Builds A Customized Giant Bed So All Of Their Rescue Dogs Can Sleep Together With Them
Chris and Mariesa Hughes have always had a special bond with their rescue dogs, but their affection for their four-legged companions led to a unique challenge — how to comfortably fit all eight dogs in bed with them. The couple, who live in upstate New York, faced countless sleepless nights as they shared their regular-sized bed with their beloved pack. It was clear that something needed to change. Instead of asking their dogs to sleep elsewhere, they came up with a solution that would allow the entire family to rest comfortably together: the creation of a “megabed.”
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Too Many Paws, Not Enough Bed
The idea for the megabed took shape after yet another uncomfortable night spent with their seven rescue dogs vying for space. Chris and Mariesa Hughes, who had always prioritized their dogs’ comfort, found themselves consistently squeezed to the edges of their normal-sized mattress. They loved having their dogs close, but the nightly struggle for space was becoming unsustainable. Instead of asking their furry companions to sleep elsewhere, they thought outside the box — why not build a bed big enough for everyone to enjoy a peaceful night’s sleep?
Determined to make the dream a reality, they envisioned a bed large enough not just to fit themselves, but all of their dogs comfortably. The goal was to create a sleeping arrangement where no one felt cramped, and even the dogs could enjoy their own space. It was clear this wouldn’t be any ordinary bed, and it was time to take the next step in bringing the concept to life.
Making Their Dream Bed a Reality
Once the idea of the megabed was set in motion, Chris and Mariesa knew they needed help to bring their vision to life. They turned to Mike Ford, a local furniture craftsman known for his skill and love of dogs, to take on the challenge. Ford, equally passionate about senior dogs, understood their unique needs and was eager to make their dream bed a reality.
The project wasn’t without its challenges. Given the sheer size of the bed — a combination of two mattresses, with one being a full-size turned sideways beneath a king — Ford had to get creative with the design. In fact, the headboard needed to be redesigned and built again after Ford realized it wouldn’t fit through the door of his workshop. Despite these obstacles, Ford pushed forward, determined to create something truly special for the Hughes family.
The result? A colossal bed measuring nearly 14 feet long and 7 feet wide. The headboard itself stood a remarkable 6 feet tall, making the bed a centerpiece in the couple’s home. Ford’s craftsmanship didn’t stop at size alone; he included built-in drawers and hand-carved paw prints, adding a personal touch that honored the Hugheses’ deep love for their dogs.
Cozy Corners for Every Pup
Once the megabed was ready, it didn’t take long for the dogs to claim their favorite spots. Each of the Hughes’ eight rescue dogs has their own unique sleeping habits, and the bed quickly became the perfect space for all of them to settle in.
Gremlin, the couple’s most well-known dog, is a senior pit bull who loves to sleep right in the middle, often resting her head on a pillow like a human. Sam, another pit bull, prefers to snuggle under the covers, especially between someone’s legs. Stig, yet another pit bull, likes to cuddle close to Mariesa, often using his paws to pull the covers down or to gently nudge her for some affection.
Quinn, a wire-haired terrier, joins the mix but is more of a solo sleeper. According to Mariesa, he’s not much of a “spooner.” Meatball, a bull terrier, sleeps up against Chris, happy to stick close. Then there’s Money, a greyhound, who is known for his signature move — sleeping on his back with his legs stretched straight into the air. His long legs sometimes result in a few accidental kicks during the night, much to Mariesa’s amusement.
Tejas, another greyhound, sleeps in the bed only some of the time, and when he does, he’s more low-key about it. Mabel, the tiny elderly Chihuahua and the newest addition to the pack, starts her night off cuddling with Chris but eventually moves to her own space, a pack-and-play, to avoid getting squished during the night.
Even with eight dogs sharing the bed, Chris and Mariesa finally found the space to enjoy a peaceful night’s sleep.
Caring for Senior Dogs: The Mr. Mo Project
Beyond just creating a comfortable home for their own dogs, Chris and Mariesa Hughes are dedicated to helping senior dogs in need. They founded The Mr. Mo Project, a nonprofit organization focused on rescuing elderly and medically fragile dogs who are often overlooked in shelters. These dogs, facing a higher risk of euthanasia, find a new chance at life through the project, which places them in “fospice” (foster hospice) homes where they receive care, love, and attention for the remainder of their lives.
The Hugheses cover all medical and living expenses for these dogs, ensuring that even the sickest or most vulnerable animals get the care they deserve. Their passion for senior dogs runs deep, inspired by their own experiences with pets like Moses, the dog who was the namesake for the project. For Chris and Mariesa, it’s about more than just saving lives — it’s about giving these dogs a dignified and love-filled final chapter.
Through The Mr. Mo Project, the couple has created a far-reaching impact, bringing awareness to the plight of senior dogs and offering a solution that benefits both the animals and their new families. It’s no surprise that their own dogs, many of whom are older, have a special place in their hearts and a cozy spot in their megabed.
A Bed for the Whole Family
For Chris and Mariesa Hughes, the megabed represents more than just a solution for sleepless nights. It’s a reflection of their deep love and dedication to their dogs, especially the senior rescues who have found a safe haven in their home. The bed has brought comfort and togetherness for the couple and their eight dogs, allowing everyone to rest easy and enjoy peaceful nights.
Their journey with the megabed also highlights their commitment to making a difference through The Mr. Mo Project. By rescuing and caring for senior dogs, Chris and Mariesa have extended their love far beyond their own household, offering hope and a loving environment to dogs who otherwise may have been forgotten.
As the couple continues their mission, it’s clear that the megabed will always have room for more — whether it’s another furry family member or just more memories with their beloved pack.
Featured image from Chris Hughes