Old habits are hard to break, especially when they bring comfort. Scooter, a senior Chihuahua, had spent ten years being loved and cared for by his owner. But after his owner passed away, the family chose not to keep him and sent him to a shelter.
The bond between a dog and its owner isn’t easily broken. At twelve years old, Scooter, the Chihuahua, was left confused and heartbroken by the sudden changes in his life. Adjusting to the shelter was difficult.
As if losing his longtime owner and being abandoned by the family wasn’t hard enough, Scooter also struggled with hip problems, making it even more challenging for him to find a new home.
Caretakers at the Humane Society of Branch County, MI, shared photos of Scooter cozily tucked in, hoping someone would see what a sweet and lovable dog he was and give him the home he deserved.
Lonely But Not Alone, Scooter Patiently Waited
Scooter’s gentle nature and independent spirit quickly caught the attention of the right adopters.
Though fate had dealt him an unfair hand, Jessica Lynn Howard refused to let him linger in sorrow. After discussing it with her husband, they decided without hesitation—Scooter was coming home with them.
When the Humane Society of Branch County announced his adoption, the comment section overflowed with joy and support.
Source: Facebook
Still, Jessica was likely the happiest of all, given her history of rescuing dogs like Scooter. His nightly ritual of tucking himself in remained a heartfelt tribute to his late owner—a habit Jessica lovingly observed.
“When it’s bedtime… he still tucks himself in,” she shared. “I’ve tried to tuck him in, but he prefers to do it himself. He has to get the covers just right. It’s really cute watching him.”
Even in his old age, Scooter thrives in a home filled with companionship, happily sharing his bed with friends. Despite his years, he still has a youthful spirit, often acting playful and goofy, Jessica says.
Source: Facebook
Scooter Did Good Beyond The Memory Of His Past Owner
Although Jessica was the first to step up and adopt Scooter, she shared that many people from across the U.S. reached out, eager to give him a home.
However, Scooter had already found his forever family. Still, his story inspired many. Moved by Jessica’s dedication to adopting senior dogs, others followed her lead, giving older dogs a second chance at life.
With senior dogs having only a 25% adoption rate, according to the ASPCA, Scooter’s impact was significant. Jessica told The Dodo that people from across the U.S. sent her photos of the older dogs they had adopted, all inspired by Scooter’s journey.
His legacy lives on.
Source: Facebook