Stray pups roaming the streets dream of being seen, rescued, and given a place to call home. They yearn for the warmth of a gentle touch and the love they’ve always deserved.
After being rescued and taken to shelters, every dog dreams of finding a loving home, cuddling with their humans, and experiencing true happiness.
Sadly, in many shelters, senior dogs and those with health issues are often placed on euthanasia lists, a heartbreaking reality that weighs heavily on my heart.
Noodle was one of those dogs—deemed unwanted and scheduled to be put down due to his medical condition.
As he lay alone in his kennel the night before his fate was sealed, he had no idea that a kindhearted woman was about to change his life forever.
Saving Noodle’s Life
Source: @tiffanyperkins
Noodle was a gentle stray who ended up at a Detroit shelter, suffering from a degenerative brain disease that caused him to lose consciousness and struggle with balance.
Despite his sweet nature, no one came forward to claim him, and potential adopters passed him by.
After his stray hold expired, the shelter’s vet recommended euthanasia, and Noodle was scheduled to be put down the next day.
But fate had other plans.
Tiffany Perkins, founder of PAWS Friend Network—a sanctuary and advocacy group dedicated to paraplegic, amputee, wheelchair-bound, and senior shelter dogs—stepped in. In addition to her work with special needs animals, Perkins also provides hospice care for senior dogs in need.
The night Tiffany Perkins learned about Noodle, she couldn’t shake the thought of him. Sleep eluded her as she imagined his fate.
By morning, there was no question—she had to act. Without hesitation, she rushed to the shelter, determined to save his life.
Falling In Love With The Adorable Pup
Source: @pawsfriendnetwork
The moment Tiffany Perkins brought Noodle home to Detroit, she knew he was meant to stay. His sweet, affectionate nature won her heart instantly, and their bond was undeniable.
At first, she wasn’t sure if Noodle would be a hospice case, but she was determined to give him the best life possible, showering him with love and care.
He quickly formed a deep friendship with her other dog, Luke. The two became inseparable, often cuddling and comforting each other.
Noticing how underweight Noodle was, Perkins suspected he had spent weeks struggling to survive on the streets. She put him on a special diet, and with time, he gained weight and grew stronger.
The lovable pup seized every chance to shower his mom with kisses, covering her face with pure affection.
Source: Tiffany Perkins
As Perkins cared for Noodle, she learned more about his condition. His fainting episodes were triggered by excitement, so she focused on creating a calm and predictable environment for him.
To make life easier for her beloved pup, she lowered her bed so he could climb in and out on his own.
Wanting to keep him comfortable, she also placed a lower couch near the window, giving Noodle and his brother the perfect spot to watch the world outside.
“Seeing him happy and gazing out the window is one of the greatest joys of my life,” she said.
One of Noodle’s favorite moments was watching the rain with his mom and brother. Snuggled up beside them, he felt truly safe and loved.
Noodle Lives A Happy Life
Source: @tiffanyperkins
Noodle loved his walks, and one of his favorite outings was to the beach. As he took in the view, his eyes sparkled with happiness, and a big, joyful smile spread across his face.
Perkins adored her sweet boy, lovingly describing him as “the biggest, sweetest marshmallow.”
More than just a companion, Noodle became a source of comfort during a difficult time in her life. She credits him with helping her through it and feels incredibly lucky to have him by her side.
Source: @tiffanyperkins
“Noodle is such a comfort to me personally… His timing in coming here was perfect. We were grieving the loss of our previous dog, and he truly helped heal us through that process. I think it’s because he’s just so kind, so sweet, and such a big teddy bear,” Perkins shared.
We couldn’t be happier that Noodle found the loving forever home he deserves. He is cherished, adored, and finally surrounded by the warmth and care he longed for.
A heartfelt thank you to Tiffany Perkins for her dedication to increasing awareness for senior and disabled shelter dogs. Her kindness not only gave Noodle the loving home he always dreamed of but also continues to shine a light on the dogs who need it most.