Every dog deserves a happy ending. When you’re an older pup, the chances of being adopted go down drastically. But the power of love can revive life into any shelter pet, and 14-year-old Chihuahua, Tyler, is proof. The sweet, frail senior who’d been looked over time and time again finally found a forever home, and with their care, he transformed into a completely rejuvenated pup with a renewed sense of purpose.

Seniors deserve love, too, so this feel good video will hopefully inspire many to go forth and seek them out. Watch as Tyler changes from defeated to grateful in this heartwarming clip.

@bessfurryface4 months of this tiny whirlwind. #adoptionworks #seniordogs

♬ Love You – The Free Design

After just four short months in his new home, Tyler is almost unrecognizable. He has energy, strength, stamina, and joy—all things that had gone as he sat in a shelter. In a previous post, Mom explained that when Tyler arrived, he had a “guardian angel” who helped him get acclimated. The angel is rescue cat, Jisso, who “made it her mission to look after Tyler,” by not leaving his side. That unconditional love and acceptance healed this dog, that’s for sure.

With such an inspirational journey, many took to the comments to offer support and praise for the pup and his new family.

“To be loved is to be changed,” one person shared. “Literally proof of what love and compassion can do to the body,” another noted. “His life starts again thanks to you,” another added. Many others commented on the visual difference in the Chihuahua, stating the fact that he’s “aging backwards,” and looks “10 years younger” now that he’s loved, and that is the best reason to adopt a senior.

Reasons to adopt a senior pup

There are a million reasons to adopt from your local shelter, and The National Humane Society notes the top reasons why a senior pet is best. Not only do these dogs typically come trained and well-behaved, but their lower energy levels due to age mean you won’t have to deal with those dreaded puppy-stage antics!

Saving a senior’s life opens up space in the shelter for a new intake, meaning you’re saving two lives. And, because older pets tend to acclimate a little faster than the younger ones, you’ll enjoy immediate benefits of companionship with a grateful pup who’s just thrilled to be out of a noisy, overcrowded, and lonely shelter.

It’s a rewarding experience to adopt at all, but when it’s an overlooked elder you can give a better rest of their life, there’s no comparison. After a few months of your consistent love, compassion, and support, they, too, will transform into a puppy again like Tyler. Isn’t that the retirement they all deserve?

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