Stray pups roaming the lonely streets dream of being noticed by kind humans who will offer them safety and warmth. They yearn for the gentle touch of a caring hand, to feel loved and valued, just as they deserve.
After being rescued and brought to shelters, every dog dreams of finding a forever home, curling up beside their humans, and finally experiencing true happiness.
It’s heartbreaking to know that in many shelters, senior dogs and those with health issues are often placed on euthanasia lists.
Noodle was one of those pups—overlooked and unwanted, his health condition sealing his fate.
On the night before his scheduled euthanasia, as he lay quietly in his kennel, he had no idea that a compassionate woman with a heart full of love was on her way to change his life forever.
Saving Noodle’s Life
Source: @tiffanyperkins
Noodle was a gentle stray dog brought to a shelter in Detroit. He suffered from a degenerative brain disease that caused him to wobble and occasionally lose consciousness.
Despite his sweet nature, no one came forward to claim him, and potential adopters passed him by, leaving Noodle without a family or a place to call home.
After Noodle’s stray hold ended, the shelter vet sadly recommended euthanasia due to his condition, and his final day was scheduled.
Tiffany Perkins, the founder of PAWS Friend Network—a sanctuary dedicated to paraplegic, amputee, wheelchair-bound, and senior shelter dogs, as well as providing hospice care—learned about Noodle’s situation.
That night, sleep escaped her as thoughts of Noodle consumed her mind. At dawn, without hesitation, Tiffany rushed to the shelter, determined to give Noodle a chance at the love and care he deserved.
Falling In Love With The Adorable Pup
Source: @pawsfriendnetwork
The moment Tiffany brought Noodle home to Detroit, she fell in love with him. His sweet and affectionate nature melted her heart, and it was clear that he belonged right there with her.
From the start, Tiffany wasn’t sure if Noodle would be a hospice case. But that uncertainty didn’t stop her from showering him with love, care, and devotion, determined to give him the best life possible for however long he had left.
Noodle quickly bonded with Tiffany’s other dog, Luke, and the two became inseparable. They often cuddled together, offering each other comfort and companionship.
Noticing how underweight Noodle was, Tiffany suspected he had spent weeks struggling to survive on the streets. She carefully put him on a special diet, and soon, Noodle began to gain weight and regain his strength.
With his health improving and his spirit shining through, Noodle showed his gratitude in the sweetest way—by covering his mom’s face with endless kisses every chance he got.
Source: Tiffany Perkins
Tiffany dedicated herself to understanding Noodle’s disease, discovering that his fainting episodes were often triggered by excitement. With this in mind, she worked hard to make his life as calm and predictable as possible, ensuring he had a peaceful and stress-free environment.
She even lowered her bed so Noodle could climb in and out comfortably on his own, giving him a sense of independence.
To make his days even more enjoyable, Tiffany arranged a lower couch by the window, creating the perfect spot for Noodle and his brother, Luke, to relax and watch the world go by together.
“Seeing him happy and watching the world from his window is one of the greatest joys I’ve ever experienced,” Tiffany shared.
Noodle especially loved watching the rain with his mom and his brother, Luke. Snuggled close in Tiffany’s arms, he felt safe, warm, and deeply loved—a feeling he had longed for during his lonely days on the streets.
Noodle Lives A Happy Life
Source: @tiffanyperkins
Noodle loved his walks, and Tiffany often took him to the beach—a place where his happiness truly shone. With the soft sand beneath his paws and the gentle breeze on his face, his eyes sparkled with pure joy, and a big, happy smile stretched across his face as he gazed out at the waves.
Tiffany adores Noodle and affectionately describes him as “the biggest, sweetest marshmallow.” It’s a perfect reflection of his soft, loving nature and the warmth he brought into her life.
Tiffany credits Noodle for helping her navigate one of the most challenging times in her life. His gentle presence, unwavering affection, and sweet spirit brought her comfort and strength when she needed it most.
She considers herself incredibly lucky to have Noodle by her side, a reminder that sometimes the ones we rescue end up rescuing us right back.
Source: @tiffanyperkins
“Noodle is such a comfort to me personally… His timing and coming here was so perfect. We were grieving the loss of our previous dog, and he really helped heal us through that process. And I think it’s because he’s just so kind and so sweet and just such a big teddy bear,” Tiffany shared.
We couldn’t be happier that Noodle found such a loving and caring forever home. He’s cherished, adored, and given the love he’s always deserved—a beautiful ending to his journey and a heartwarming new beginning.
A heartfelt thank you to Tiffany Perkins for her dedication to increasing awareness about senior and disabled shelter dogs. Her compassion and commitment have given Noodle not only a loving home but also a second chance at life—a dream every shelter dog hopes for.