Senior Chihuahua Tucks Himself Into Shelter Bed Every Night Like His Former Owner Used To

Senior Chihuahua Tucks Himself Into Shelter Bed Every Night Like His Former Owner Used To

Being a senior dog in an animal shelter is tough. They're often overlooked and chosen last, and they might be forced to live out their golden years in the shelter or a foster home if they're lucky.

Many senior dogs are surrendered to shelters in rough conditions due to years of negligence or abuse, and for those dogs, the shelter might mean a bit of relief from their suffering.

However, some senior dogs end up in the shelter after spending years with a great family. Maybe the family had to move or change circumstances, but sometimes an owner will pass away and leave their senior pooch to fend for itself.

That's what happened to Scooter, a chihuahua who spend 12 years of his life in a loving home with someone who cared deeply for him. Unfornatueyl, when Scooter's owner passed away, he was brought to the Humane Society of Branch County, but he didn't really understand why he had to leave his home or what was happening.

According to The Dodo, the shelter's manager, said: "Scooter was 12 years old and had an old hip injury. But we had the space ... We never turn them away."

She suspected Scooter would be at the shelter for a while, possibly spending the rest of his life there. After all, he was up there in age and had some medical issues with his hip situation.

However, once Scooter was at the shelter, the staff began to notice something heartbreaking and adorable all at once. AT bedtime, Scooter would tuck himself into his blanket - just like his former owner would do!

The shelter shared a photo of the sweet habit on Facebook and it wasn't long before it went viral.

The shelter was pleased to announce that, thanks to Scooter's viral fame, he found a loving family to take him home!

They said, "Scooter has been adopted!!!! His story went viral last night due to the outpouring of love. We have all been so touched by everyone that cared about him."

While Scooter may not get to live his golden years out with the person who raised him, it's nice to know he'll be in a safe, loving home and not grow older in the shelter kennels.

Malorie Thompson

Malorie works as a writer and editor in Northern California. She's passionate about food, conscious living, animal welfare, and conservation. She's worked with a variety of publications in different sectors but is happiest covering topics close to her heart. When not at her laptop, Malorie can be found enjoying picnics on the beach, hiking in the redwoods, and spending time with her rescue pup, Jax.

Back to blog

Help Animals That Need Medical Care

100% of your donation will fund medical care for pets in need!

1 10
View all