Growing up, many of us share the common longing for a canine companion, desiring the unmatched affection and unwavering love that only dogs can offer. When we finally bring a dog into our lives, we silently wish for their perpetual youth, dreading the day when their vitality fades, and we must bid them farewell.
Those who have experienced the loss of a dog understand the profound sorrow akin to losing a cherished family member. The attachment we form with these incredible creatures and the depth of our love for them makes parting incredibly challenging. Nevertheless, not all dog owners share the same sentiments.
While some individuals fervently wish for their beloved canine to remain by their side indefinitely, others abruptly decide to end their pet's journey for reasons as trivial as no longer wanting the responsibility, behavioral issues, difficulty in handling, changes in circumstances, or simply old age—among countless other excuses.
Today, our narrative centers around Netty, a senior dog who was brought back to the shelter from which she was initially rescued after twelve years, with the intention of euthanizing her. However, the compassionate veterinarians examining Netty saw an enduring spark in her eyes, revealing a reservoir of life yet to be lived. Instead of proceeding with euthanasia, they made the decision to seek a new home for her through adoption.
A Fresh Start at the Age of Fifteen
Netty, a fifteen-year-old mixed pit bull, faced the challenge of incontinence, which led her owners to return her to the shelter. Regrettably, their intentions did not involve providing assistance; rather, they sought to end her life. Yet, the compassionate veterinarians held a different view, initiating appropriate treatment to address her condition. To everyone's delight, Netty began to experience remarkable improvements.
Witnessing Netty's promising recovery, the shelter took to social media, imploring kind-hearted individuals to consider adopting her and offering her a life filled with care and affection. Despite the collective hope for Netty's future, there was an underlying awareness that senior dogs tend to have lower adoption rates.
The shelter did not hide the truth about Netty. Their message expressed their wish that she could stay away from the shelter in the remaining days she had left. They hoped to find a home for her where she could enjoy some happiness and love in her final moments.
They said that Netty was easy-going and got along well with children, other dogs, and cats. They also asked people to help spread the word and their comment section exploded! The post was shared hundreds of times, so many people heard about Netty.
“I felt she was the right one for me”
The post reached Amy Kidd, a veterinarian, and she says she felt an instant connection with Netty. Sadly, Amy and her family had experienced the loss of a dog. Their 12-year-old rescue dog named Monty had died of cancer just a month before Amy saw Netty and they had six other elderly dogs living with them.
So, when Amy saw Netty’s face she knew that this dog belonged in her home. Amy and her family have been adopting elderly dogs for ten years. They have graciously embraced dogs in their final stages, granting them a home even when their time left was as short as one or two months, always ensuring their optimal care. They decided to keep taking in elderly dogs as well as other dogs who needed extra care.
When the decision was made, Amy’s daughter, Emilia, and two sons drove 40 miles to get Netty from the shelter. They brought one of their elderly dogs with them to make sure they would get along. When Emilia saw Netty, the pup sniffed her and started to wag her tail happily. That’s when everyone was certain Netty had found her new family.
A New Chapter Begins
When Netty greeted her new family with a wagging tail, the bond was sealed, and they embarked on the journey back home together. Throughout the ride, Netty displayed excellent behavior, and upon arrival at her new abode, she swiftly settled in. It was clear to Netty from the very start that she had discovered another loving home, marking the beginning of a fresh chapter in her life.
Although Netty still struggled with incontinence, Amy and her family provided her with medication to help manage the issue. Additionally, Netty grappled with arthritis in her lower spine and elbows, but they diligently worked to enhance her condition. Gradually, they grew more acquainted with Netty's unique traits, and their affection for her deepened.
Amy and her family soon observed Netty's amusingly stubborn streak, which was particularly endearing given her age-related mobility challenges. Surprisingly, she swiftly assumed the role of the household matriarch, effortlessly ascending the staircase unaided. In fact, she conquers the stairs every single day! These experiences convinced the family that Netty's time with them was far from her final days.
The entire family acknowledges Netty's abundant potential, aspiring to inspire others to consider adopting senior dogs or dogs with additional needs. Contrary to the popular belief that old dogs can't learn new tricks, these dogs simply require love and patience to thrive.
Anyone with compassion and a sheltering haven can provide a nurturing environment for senior pets and reap the immeasurable affection they offer in return. Elderly canines possess their own brand of specialness and yearn for a complete and fulfilling existence, just like their younger counterparts. They don't require much, only a modicum of comfort and attention.
Presently, Netty relishes every moment of her life, and Amy hopes that by sharing her story, people will comprehend that senior dogs deserve adoption as much as any other dogs. Please help spread this tale to inspire others and grant elderly dogs, currently languishing in shelters, the chance to experience a joyous life while they are still amongst us.