Cecelia Black, co-founder ofConnect A Pet New England (CAPNE) received an alarming call about a 10-year-old Labrador named Shelby in December 2016, reports The Dodo.
Source: Cecelia Blake
The senior dog suffers from a skin disease that requires daily baths and medicine costing $200. Her family couldn't cope with the financial strain ofher treatment and weren't willing to give the dog the care that she needed, and so decided to give her up.When she arrived at the shelter, Shelby was in such a terrible condition that Cecelia's colleague thought that the animal was beyond saving, and even began to make plans to euthanize her.
Source: Cecelia Blake
Before making such an important decision, Cecelia sought more information on the dog's condition and quickly discovered that her illness was completely treatable.The young woman knew that she had to help Shelby and brought her to a veterinary center. The canine was not only suffering from a painful skin condition but also fromeye, ear and teeth infectionsas well as being underweight. It was clearly that Shelby had not been properly looked after.
Source: Cecelia Blake
Whilst all of these ailments are serious, they are completely curable, so Cecelia immediately made arrangements for the animal's treatment and began her search to find Shelby a foster home, where she would be able to recover in a loving environment.
Source: Cecelia Blake
Lillian and Red Bibber were looking to adopt a new canine companion after the death of their beloved Border Collie, who had suffered from cancer. Their granddaughter, Kelsey-Libby, heard about Shelby's story and got in touch with Cecelia straight away. She explained to The Dodo:
My grandparents are in their eighties. Their personalities just seemed so similar, it just felt like it made sense. That needed to be her forever home!
Source: Cecelia Blake
They were a perfect match and the dog is now enjoying her new home where she is showered with love and affection. The senior dog spends the majority of her time sleeping and loves to relax with her wonderful humans on the sofa.
Source: Cecelia Blake
Shelby was extremely lucky to find a forever home as this is often difficult for senior dogs. However, they are wonderful companions that deserve a loving last chapter of their lives.
Tens of thousands of dogs and cats end up in shelters each year, either due to neglect, abuse or abandonment. Consider adopting before you shop, and visit your local shelters before going to a breeder. Every dog and cat deserves a fair chance at a forever home.If you live in England, you can visit the RSPCA, and if you live in the United States, you can visit the ASPCA to get more information about pets available for adoption.
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