Zoey, a 10-year-old dog who faced the heartbreak of adoption and return, has a new family full of love. Zoey’s journey, marked by resilience, love, and a newfound purpose, showcases the untapped potential that senior pets possess in bringing comfort and healing to their forever families.

Zoey’s path to her new lease on life began with her adoption, a ray of hope that promised years of companionship and joy. Carmen Hidalgo Kirschner, a Best Friends Animal Society lifesaving outcomes specialist in Los Angeles, held an unwavering belief in Zoey’s ability to find her perfect match. Kirschner highlighted the immense love that senior animals have to offer and the deep fulfillment that comes from adopting them. Seniors, often overlooked due to their age, tend to seamlessly integrate into households.

However, fate had a different plan for Zoey. Unforeseen circumstances led her back to the shelter she once left, at the age of 10. The challenges faced by senior dogs in the adoption process came to the forefront, as they often spend considerably longer periods in shelters than their younger counterparts.

Zoey’s journey took a complex turn due to her health issues, including cataracts, glaucoma, and an enlarged liver. Best Friends Animal Society, recognizing the stress that a shelter environment could cause, arranged for Zoey to stay in a foster home. This decision not only provided a nurturing space for her but also allowed potential forever families to understand her unique needs and personality.

This is where Cristina Nieto and her family came into the picture. Their desire to adopt an adult dog, coupled with Zoey’s endearing features, marked the beginning of a transformative bond. The pup’s presence in their lives quickly became a source of comfort, with her gentle demeanor and affectionate nature.

Zoey’s arrival brought not only companionship but also unexpected therapeutic benefits to the Nieto household. The calming influence that Zoey had on the family became particularly evident during times of hardship. When faced with the news of their grandfather’s cancer diagnosis, Zoey stepped up as a pillar of Support.

Brittany Thorn, the executive director of Best Friends Animal Society in Los Angeles, emphasized Zoey’s story as a testament to the unique companionship that senior pets bring. Thorn noted that Zoey’s ability to ease anxiety and provide comfort in challenging times underscored the special bond that forms between senior animals and their families.

We encourage everyone thinking of getting a pet to only adopt instead of shopping. Read more resources about adopting animals on One Green Planet, including 7 Reasons to Adopt Your Next Furry Best Friend, 5 Reasons Why Everyone Should Adopt a Pet, and These Heartwarming Before and After Pictures of Adopted Rescue Animals Will Make Your Day! Read tips for pet adoptions and what to consider before adopting an animal. We recommend using these apps to find shelter dogs near you!

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