A senior volunteer at a shelter saved an elder dog from living her last days alone and documented their special relationship in a touching photo series.
Bill Baker, 71, has been volunteering at Kentucky’s Kenton County Animal Shelter for some time and seen a lot of dogs come in and seen a lot of dogs go — either by being adopted or put down. But when he laid eyes on 12-year-old Marcie, he couldn’t let go.
Related: Vet Gets Terrified Dog to Come Out of Her Shell By Eating Breakfast With Her
The dog was abandoned on the street and left to fend for herself – and as a senior, it was a struggle. Not only did she have to face the challenges of being a stray – hungry, scared and cold — but she was also blind and infested by fleas.
Fortunately, people made the shelter aware of the dog and brought her in. But then staff discovered devastating news: She was dying of cancer. Not only was this a hard diagnosis but her chances of adoption were basically zero. She would be euthanized. Baker wasn’t having it.
“When they brought this poor one in, I just loved her. We thought we’d give her some comfort in her last days,” he told Cinnancatti.com. He, along with his wife, decided to take her in, a move that helped both sides. “Turns out, she’s done so much for us – reminded us what it is to be human. She’s a joy.”
Shelter director Elizabeth Cochran couldn’t be happier with the Bakers taking the dog in.
“This is the most beautiful and special adoption – the fact that they were willing to take her on and tend to her needs and give her a great life for what time she has left,” she told the outlet. “It’s an adoption that rarely happens. We’re so grateful to Bill. Bill is the most kindhearted and gracious individual. He’s a great volunteer. He spends so much time with each and every animal. He seems to communicate with them on a deep level.”
Related: Senior Dog Says Goodbye to His Beloved Owner in Heartbreaking Letter
Shelter photographer and friend, Lisa Binns, decided to document the special relationship between the Bakers and Marcie.
Here are a few of our favorites:
Photo Credit: Lisa Binns
Photo Credit: Lisa Binns
Photo Credit: Lisa Binns
Photo Credit: Lisa Binns
