Not all heroes wear capes… some just have the biggest hearts. And that’s exactly what Kate Schakols proved when she adopted Rooster, a sick senior dog, determined to give him the best last days of his life.
Rooster, a 10 to 12-year-old chocolate Lab, had a laundry list of health issues. Blindness, worn teeth and elbows from digging in concrete for food, heartworm – you name it, this poor boy had it.
But Kate looked past all that, seeing only a beautiful dog, inside and out.
An Unbreakable Bond
From the moment they met, Kate and Rooster formed an incredible connection. “The bond I had with Rooster was unreal,” Kate shared.
I’d never felt that specific type of connection before, and it was obvious to everyone that he had chosen me to be his person,
Despite his age and ailments, Rooster embraced his new life with Kate. He reveled in the soft grass beneath his paws, a welcome change from the hard concrete he once ate off of.
With a full belly and a cozy bed, Rooster finally experienced the love and comfort every dog deserves.
But their blissful time together was cut tragically short. After just 28 days, Rooster fell ill with bloat, a life-threatening condition. Kate rushed him to the vet, praying for a miracle.
A Heartbreaking Farewell
Sadly, it was too late. The only choice was to let Rooster go peacefully. Due to COVID restrictions, Kate couldn’t be by his side in those final moments.
She whispered in my ear that she’d always love me and is so sorry she couldn’t save me,
Kate imagined Rooster saying.
Through her tears, Kate realized that in a way, she had saved him. In their fleeting 28 days together, she gave Rooster more love and happiness than he had ever known.
She showed him that life could be beautiful, even in its twilight.
Every Moment Counts
Rooster’s story is a poignant reminder that our time with our furry companions is precious and often too short.
Kate didn’t let Rooster’s age or health stop her from opening her heart and home to him. She made every moment of those 28 days count.
Let Rooster inspire us to cherish the dogs in our lives and consider opening our hearts to a senior in need.
They may not have many days left, but as Kate showed, even a short time can mean the world to a dog who’s never known real love.
Every dog deserves to spend their final days in a warm home, with a full belly and a loving hand to hold.
Let’s be the heroes they need, even if we can only give them 28 perfect days.