A senior dog faced spending the last of her days in shelter until a fateful adopter saved her life.
During the last days of February, 18-year old pooch Julep was dropped off at an animal shelter after having spent her life in a proper home.
Julep’s owner had just passed away. While her owner loved her dearly, the family was unable to care for the dog.
Alix John Tolley, spokesperson for Washington D.C.’s Humane Rescue Alliance, said that Julep was one of the oldest – if not the oldest – dog to ever come through their doors.
The animal shelter went to work posting about Julep on Facebook, asking if anyone had room in their home or in their heart for the sweet girl. They said she was looking for a fresh start, and needed nothing more than a couch to sleep on and a human to love.
Word got around to Wayne Lerch, who was suffering heartbreak over the recent loss of his 11-year old pit bull, Jasmine. Jasmine passed away suddenly this past December, and it hit Lerch hard.
When Lerch saw Julep’s story, he was immediately moved. So moved that the next day, he went to the Humane Rescue Alliance before their adoption center even opened.
He arrived on his motorcycle, to prevent himself from making an impulsive decision. He knew he couldn’t take her home if he came on his bike.
But as soon as Lerch met Julep, he said he knew right away that he wanted to adopt her. He went home, got his car, and came to get Julep to bring her home. Julep had spent about one month in the shelter.
Tolley said that when Julep left with Lerch, there wasn’t a dry eye in the room. He said that though shelter workers try not to get too emotional about happy endings, nobody could help but be touched to the core by Lerch’s obvious adoration for his “new lady.”
Lerch reports that Julep’s arrival into his home has been great for both of them. He said she is helping him heal from his loss, and she seems “happy as a pig in slop.”
Lerch renamed her Tootie, after his grandmother. But it is also a tip of the hat to the dessert called tutti frutti, because the pup can’t get enough treats.
Lerch also reports that she loves to walk, and adores naps! She slept until 10:30 the morning after she came to her new home.
Julep is currently healthy, but Lerch knows she may not have a long time with him. Despite that, he wants to make what time they do have together wonderful.
He said he couldn’t bear to see her spend one more night at the shelter, and aims to pamper her and make sure she enjoys every last minute she has.
