When Bailey and Morgan’s owner became ill, they were brought to the Aiken County Animal Shelter. Bailey was 13 years old and Morgan 11. Morgan, the small dachshund, quickly caught attention from potential adopters — but these two were bonded. They had spent their entire lives together, and the only security they knew was each other. Separating them simply wasn’t an option.
So, we waited and hoped for the right home — one willing to open their heart to not just one senior dog, but two.
Thanks to social media and more than one thousand shares, that home finally appeared.
After their adoption, we asked if they would be willing to share their experience. They sent us the following message:
“Sometimes life throws an unexpected curve and we definitely learned the meaning of that adage several weeks ago. While Doug had a chemo infusion, we met a wonderful dog parent, Beverly, and her therapy dog, PJ. We chatted casually and were asked what breed of dog we would select if we were going to adopt. Having been raised in a Doxie household, my response was immediate. A couple of weeks later, we received a text from Ms. Beverly along with adorable picture of two senior bonded dogs, who had a lifetime attachment, with a note that they could not be placed for adoption since nobody wanted two senior dogs. Our pastor’s recent sermon told us that while we may have a plan throughout life, God may have a different plan for us and we must be flexible. We decided to meet these two pups and arranged to go to the Aiken shelter. We were led to a small room to await visitation. Morgan, our Doxie, immediately ran to us, tail wagging, and kisses galore, while Bailey, who is anxious in new situations, paced and occasionally stopped for an ear scratch. Morgan adopted us immediately and within four days, so did Bailey. They are the sweetest pups and separating them would have been cruel. They are constant companions. Adopting seniors has been a remarkable experience. They know their names, understand our commands and required minimal training. They can now live out their lives in the comfort of our home with home-cooked meals and lots of love. In exchange, we have received companions and lots of love right back. We had never thought of adopting a pet, let alone two, but we have been blessed. They know it and so do we. Lennie and Doug”
Stories like this remind us how important it is to have a plan for pets in case of illness or emergencies. Asking a friend or family member to take our pets in case something happens.
We also often encourage older individuals to consider adopting older pets. It is usually a better match — puppies and kittens require so much training and energy, while senior pets are typically house-trained, socialized, and home ready.
Even the best plans don’t always work out. When they don’t, the Aiken County Animal Shelter staff and volunteers go into overdrive to make sure pets like Bailey and Morgan still get their happy ending.
Their lives are in our hands.
By Kathy Cagle, FOTAS Programs Coordinator