Beth and Michael Clark are passionate dog lovers who have worked with shelters for quite a while.
One December, they went to the Friends Of Anne Arundel County Animal Care & Control in Millersville, Maryland, to drop off some donations and supplies.
They have regularly supported the nonprofit organization knowing that they have done a great deal of work to help animals in need. One of the dogs they met there was Rocky. The shelter staff said that the senior dog was already 14 years old when he came in, and for the last three years, he has returned to the shelter six times.
Beth felt really bad about Rocky’s situation. He didn’t want the old dog to live his remaining life inside the shelter. Right there and then, after discussing with his husband, they adopted the senior pooch.
A good choice
Beth said that looking at the old dog’s sad white face through the cage broke her heart. She knew that she couldn’t leave the dog to die in that cage.
Rocky prospered in his new home. He might not be as playful and as active as younger pups, but he made everyone felt how happy he was. He would always cuddle with his new owners and let them know that he loves them.
He was also a good source of support when Beth became pregnant shortly after he joined the family.
Even when her belly wasn’t showing yet, it seemed that Rocky already knew that she was expecting. The lovable senior started acting more gentle around her. And he showed quite a lot of patience with all the baby stuff happening around them.
And when Beth had terrible days, the dog would sit quietly next to her, just letting her know that he is there for her.
But Rocky was having problems of his own. His health was deteriorating fast, and the vets said that he might have a tumor.
Meet the new baby
When the day finally arrived, the couple couldn’t wait for Rocky to meet their new baby, Hazel. As soon as the adorable baby arrived home, the 18-year-old pooch slowly approached her and sniffed her slowly. He then placed his head near the baby. Beth couldn’t stop the tears from flowing.
The beautiful scene made her cry. She knew that the dog was very sick and he could perish any day.
And in the next few days, Rocky’s condition grew so worse that they knew it was time to stop his suffering. They called a vet, and they put him to sleep.
Beth would like to think that Rocky waited for her new sister to arrive. He must have used all his strength to hold on until he meets the baby.
Source: @FAACAC/Facebook