Credit: People.com
In a story that beautifully illustrates the timeless bond between humans and their furry companions, Velcro, a senior dog with a gentle soul, found his forever home with Jeanette, a fellow senior citizen seeking companionship. This heartwarming tale unfolds at Austin Pets Alive! (APA), where Velcro, a Carolina dog mix with special needs, waited for two years for someone to see past his disabilities and embrace him for the loving pet he is.
Velcro’s journey to his new home was not a straightforward one. Being partially deaf and blind, with neurological and mobility issues, he required a specific type of home environment: calm, slow-paced, and preferably one story. These requirements made finding the perfect match challenging, extending Velcro’s stay at the shelter.
Enter Jeanette, who, at nearly 75 years old, was on a quest to fill the void left by the loss of her two beloved dogs. Initially visiting APA to meet another dog, Jeanette’s path crossed with Velcro’s, and it was as if fate intervened. Despite Velcro’s reserved demeanor, something shifted when he met Jeanette. The connection was undeniable, and Jeanette knew Velcro was the companion she had been searching for.
Jeanette’s desire for a placid, loving pet matched perfectly with Velcro’s needs. His limitations, far from being deterrents, only deepened Jeanette’s resolve to give him a loving home. She embarked on the foster-to-adopt process, providing Velcro with the stability and care he needed to thrive.
Under Jeanette’s loving attention, Velcro underwent a remarkable transformation. From a “sedate old gentleman” at the shelter, he began to exhibit a newfound zest for life, exploring the backyard and enjoying the simple pleasure of leisurely strolls with Jeanette. These moments of companionship brought joy to both their lives, proving that love knows no age.
Jeanette has dedicated herself to ensuring Velcro’s golden years are filled with comfort and happiness. From sprawling dog beds for sunbathing to his favorite Pup-Peroni treats, Velcro is truly living his best life. Their walks, more strolls than brisk outings, offer them both a chance to savor the outdoors and each other’s company.
Renaming him Velcro was a nod to their inseparable bond. Jeanette humorously notes that Velcro is always by her side, a constant companion in her daily activities. Their relationship exemplifies the mutual benefits of pet adoption, particularly for senior citizens and senior pets alike. Jeanette’s home, devoted to the “pleasure and convenience of dogs,” has become Velcro’s sanctuary, where he is cherished and adored.
Jeanette’s story with Velcro is not just a tale of adoption but a call to action. It highlights the joys and rewards of welcoming senior pets into one’s life, especially for older adults. While adopting an older pet may mean facing the inevitability of parting ways sooner, the love and companionship they offer are immeasurable.
Velcro’s journey from a long-term shelter resident to a beloved pet is a testament to the power of love, patience, and the willingness to see beyond an animal’s limitations. Jeanette and Velcro’s story inspires us to consider opening our homes and hearts to senior pets, who have so much love to give and are just waiting for someone to give them a chance. In the end, the happiness they bring to our lives is more than worth the eventual goodbye.
