Sick 17-year-old Dog Stays Alive Just Long Enough To Meet His Baby Sister
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Of all the dog stories I have come across over the years, Rocky’s story will always hold a special place in my heart.

He was one of many senior shelter dogs about to say goodbye to the world, but then Beth and Michael Clark showed up at the shelter door and offered him an unforgettable experience just in the autumn of his life.

The sad shelter dog
Zieke 17-jarige hond blijft net lang genoeg in leven om zijn babyzusje te ontmoeten 1
Beth Clark
Rocky was an older dog who had ended up in a Maryland shelter. He had had a long life, but had not been treated well by his previous owner. He was weak and often ran away from home.

The visit of Beth and Michael
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Beth Clark
One day Beth and Michael Clark, a sweet couple, came to visit the shelter. They had always loved shelter dogs and often came to help them in the winter by leaving warm blankets behind. But this time something unusual happened.

A new beginning
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Beth Clark
Beth and Michael discovered Rocky, a 17-year-old dog with a gray face and lean body.

He looked sad and lonely and they couldn’t leave him behind.

They decided to take him home and give him a chance at a new life.

Beth said, “He just looked so sad.” They adopted Rocky just before Christmas.

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Beth Clark
His new home was filled with love and care. Despite his age and health problems, he thrived.

He became a big sweetheart, always ready to cuddle with Beth and Michael.

Over time, Rocky’s legs became weaker and he could no longer go for long walks.

Instead, he enjoyed the sun in the backyard and kept his owners company.

The birth of baby Hazel
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Beth Clark
In 2016, Beth learned she was going to have a baby and she was overjoyed.

Rocky, who had always been a loving companion, adapted well to the new circumstances.

He was gentle and kind, knowing that a new family member was on the way.

The decline of Rocky’s health
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Beth Clark
Unfortunately, as Beth’s pregnancy progressed, Rocky’s health deteriorated.

He was having seizures and feeling very sick. The Clarks took him to the vet and were told he had a tumor and did not have long to live.

The vet wanted to hospitalize him, but the Clarks couldn’t bear to see Rocky in a cage again.

They decided to take him home and hoped he would live long enough to meet their baby.

A special meeting
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Beth Clark
Rocky’s wish came true when Hazel, their infant daughter, arrived. He sniffed her gently and laid his head close to her. It was a beautiful and emotional moment for the family.

But Beth and Michael clearly noticed that something was wrong. He was very weak and his eyes were glassy.

Saying goodbye
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Beth Clark
Unfortunately, his condition worsened later that evening, and Beth and Michael had to make a heartbreaking decision.

They knew it was time to say goodbye to their beloved Rocky.

It was a difficult choice, but they didn’t want him to suffer any longer.

It was as if Rocky did his best to stay alive long enough to meet his baby sister, and now he could finally leave the world in peace.

A moving tribute
Just before Rocky died, Beth and Michael took a few pictures of Hazel and Rocky together.

Following Rocky’s passing, Friends of Anne Arundel County Animal Care & Control posted a tribute to him on Facebook.

“One day they will show you that photo and tell you how wonderful and loved your first dog was, even though your lives overlapped for such a short time,” wrote Friends of Anne Arundel County Animal Care & Control.

Rocky’s life was filled with love, compassion and the joy of welcoming a new family member.

He may have had a rough start, but his story reminds us of the power of love and the lasting impact one dog can have on a family’s heart.

Rest in peace, Rocky. You will always be remembered as Hazel’s first big brother.