Couple Adopt 17-Year-Old Dog From Shelter, He Stays Alive Long Enough To Meet Human Sister

Beth and Michael Clark are the kind of animal heroes that donate blankets to shelters in the winter to help keep the dogs there warm and cosy.

In December 2015, they went to Anne Arundel County Animal Control to donate blankets and supplies, but they ended up taking something else home with them.

The couple looked at Rocky, a 17-year-old dog, and realised they couldn’t bear to leave him.

“I saw this gray-faced, skinny dog and I said to my husband, ‘We’re getting him,’” Beth told TODAY. “I was not about to leave that old man to die in a cage.”

Beth said to TODAY, “Rocky made our life very complete.”

“He loved dancing with us and being near us … as the year went on, it got harder for him to climb the stairs and go on walks, so my husband would carry him up the stairs every night just so he could sleep next to us, and instead of walks we just sat outside in the sun together.”

Exceptional people that welcome ageing dogs into their homes
Anne Arundel County Animal Control administrator Robin Catlett has noticed an uptick in inquiries about adopting a senior dog.

“It takes a special family to open their heart and home to an animal that they may only get to have in their lives for a short period of time,” said Robin. “We do our best to make the animals as comfortable as possible in our care, however we know this can never replace a forever home.”

Beth was happy to learn she was pregnant, and she told Today that as her belly grew, Rocky became more gentle. The pregnant woman in Maryland greatly appreciated his unwavering support.

The pair even posted a picture of a Rocky with the caption, “Mom and Dad are getting me a human!” on social media to share the news of their pregnancy.

But Rocky’s health started to decline when Beth was seven months pregnant, and they were told their loving senior dog may have a tumour.

Beth and Michael’s daughter was born, and Rocky sniffed and nuzzled up to her, but the dog’s health was fading, and they knew it was time to let their beloved pet go.

“I called a vet and that night, he went peacefully with his family by him,” Beth told Today. “We loved him more than words can describe and we still have a very hard time adjusting to him not being here.”

Rocky’s new human sibling is what the Clarks think kept him going.

Beth and Michael, you two are animal heroes of the highest calibre. We appreciate your taking Rocky into your home and giving him a loving, comfortable retirement.

PLEASE SHARE this article with family and friends!