The story of Snoopy, an elderly and nearly deaf dog, is a touching tale that stirs the emotions. After spending 653 days in a shelter, Snoopy’s story shows a pup’s enduring hope for a loving home.
Julie, a graphic designer from Washington state, shares Snoopy’s story with us. She volunteers at the Kennewick shelter, also known as the Ben Franklin Humane Society, where Snoopy resides. Over the past two years, she has formed a close bond with Snoopy, whose journey is marked by challenges and small victories.
Snoopy’s journey began when he was surrendered to the shelter. About a year ago, he was diagnosed with Cushing’s Disease, a condition that has impaired his vision and hearing. Despite his almost complete deafness, Snoopy’s spirit remains unbroken. His daily routine includes sucking on blankets and toys in his kennel, a habit that seems to comfort him.
Julie’s bond with Snoopy deepened over the last month, and she has become deeply attached to him. Snoopy’s personality shines through his challenges. He is great with people, although he does not get along with other dogs. His joy is palpable when he is let out of his kennel, as if every day is the best day ever.
Snoopy’s needs are simple; he does not require long hikes or strenuous activities. All he wants is to bask in the sun in the backyard, enjoying the company of his human friends. The shelter community has rallied around Snoopy, providing him with toys and donations. One kind individual even noticed that Snoopy only had a blanket in his kennel and arranged for a comfortable orthopedic bed to be sent to him.
Snoopy has also formed a special bond with Sydney, a shelter worker who considers Snoopy her favorite dog. Despite his health issues, Snoopy’s prognosis is positive, thanks to the medication he is on. The veterinarian believes that Snoopy has a few golden years left in him. However, the cost of treating Cushing’s Disease is high, involving regular vet visits and several types of medication.
This financial burden may deter potential adopters, especially considering Snoopy’s advanced age and special needs. The fear of adopting a senior dog with health issues is a significant barrier to Snoopy finding a home. People are often hesitant to adopt a dog that may only be with them for a few months due to health complications. Julie expresses her wish to adopt Snoopy herself, but she already has two dogs of her own.
Snoopy had a brief respite from the shelter when he was placed in foster care. However, the arrangement did not work out, and he was returned to the shelter. Throughout his 653 days at the shelter, Snoopy has only had one meet and greet with a potential adopter. A second meet and greet was scheduled, but the potential adopter did not show up.
Snoopy’s story is a poignant reminder of the challenges faced by senior and special needs dogs in shelters. Despite his health issues and the long days spent in the shelter, Snoopy’s spirit remains unbroken. Snoopy’s story shows the importance of compassion and understanding towards all animals, especially those with special needs.
Snoopy’s journey is far from over, and the hope remains that he will find a loving home where he can spend his golden years. His story serves as a call to action for all of us to consider opening our hearts and homes to animals like Snoopy, who, despite their challenges, have so much love to give.
