When the team at Big Heart Animal Haven (BHAH) learned about a 20-year-old Weimaraner named Buddy, recently given up by his previous owners, they were instantly smitten. The rescue team at BHAH handles all types of dogs, but Weimaraners hold a special place in their hearts.
“Our founder started Big Heart Animal Haven due to her love for Weimaraners,” said Sarah Johnson, BHAH’s digital marketing director. “That’s how our rescue began — through Weimaraner rescue efforts in Florida. Whenever we encounter a Weim, we always step in. But Buddy’s case was truly exceptional.”
BHAH discovered Buddy when a nearby animal shelter contacted them. Given his age and size, the initial shelter knew he wouldn’t thrive in their environment. Since BHAH operates as a cage-free facility, they believed Buddy would fare better with them.
“He wouldn’t have done well there, so they reached out to us. We met halfway and brought Buddy back to BHAH,” Johnson explained.
Upon arriving at BHAH, Buddy was immediately embraced with affection. BHAH’s director, Emily Hart, even prepared a special bed in her office for the elderly dog. “Buddy surprised everyone upon his arrival,” Johnson recalled. “We expected him to rest quietly, but instead, he picked up a bone, which became his favorite, and tried to share it with the other dogs.”
Though Buddy’s mobility was restricted due to his age and size, it didn’t prevent him from forming deep bonds at BHAH. When he wasn’t sharing toys, he could be found relaxing on his bed in Hart’s office, with staff members frequently stopping by to check on him.
“Buddy became a little hero in our office,” Johnson said. “He gained many admirers.” Shortly after his arrival, the staff posted a video introducing Buddy to BHAH’s online followers. Within days, they received an overwhelming number of inquiries about adopting the gentle senior dog.
“We were flooded with hundreds of people wanting to adopt Buddy,” Johnson said. “We wanted to ensure we selected the perfect person, someone who could meet Buddy’s needs in his golden years.”
After thorough consideration, BHAH found an ideal home for Buddy. Soon, he would have a loving owner, two dog siblings, and a cozy home to spend the rest of his days. A few days later, BHAH transported Buddy to his new home, accompanied by a resident dog trainer to help Buddy and his new siblings adjust. However, the transition was seamless, as the dogs instantly bonded.
“There were no issues — it was like a miracle,” Johnson said. “That’s so important for Buddy. It renews his spirit. He’s got siblings to play with, and he tries to keep up with them.” Despite his arthritis and mobility challenges, Buddy’s new family helps him as much as possible, and BHAH has committed to covering all his medical expenses for life, including providing a wheelchair and an orthopedic bed.
For BHAH, Buddy’s rescue is one of many heartwarming stories. The organization saves dogs from various situations worldwide, including natural disasters, conflict zones, and owner surrenders.
“We save about 5,000 dogs annually,” said Robin Clark, BHAH’s chief development officer. “We go wherever we’re needed, wherever dogs are in distress. Buddy’s case is special and unique, but it also exemplifies the work we do and the lives we save.”
The response to Buddy’s story was overwhelming, and although he now has a forever home, BHAH hopes that other adoptive families will consider giving a home to one of Buddy’s friends still at the shelter. While it’s uncertain how much time Buddy has left, his remaining days will undoubtedly be filled with love and joy. The senior dog now spends his days either swimming with his new owner or napping on his favorite couch alongside his siblings. For Buddy, life couldn’t be better.
And for the team at BHAH, Buddy’s story is incredibly rewarding.
“This was a special match for all of us,” Johnson said. “We all love him dearly.”
Buddy’s journey to BHAH began when his previous family, unable to care for him due to his advanced age and increasing needs, made the difficult decision to surrender him. Recognizing that Buddy needed a place where he could receive the special care and attention required by a senior dog, they reached out to the local shelter, which in turn contacted BHAH.
From the moment Buddy arrived at BHAH, it was clear that he had found a special place. The team at BHAH is well-versed in caring for senior dogs, understanding the unique challenges and rewards that come with providing a loving home for older pets. Buddy was immediately enveloped in a warm and nurturing environment, with staff members going above and beyond to make him feel at home.
One of the most touching aspects of Buddy’s story is the way he quickly integrated into the BHAH community. Despite his age and the challenges that come with it, Buddy exhibited a zest for life that inspired everyone around him. His favorite pastime, sharing his beloved bone with other dogs, became a symbol of his generous spirit and resilience. This small but significant gesture won the hearts of both staff and visitors alike, making Buddy a beloved figure at BHAH.
The video posted by BHAH’s staff, showcasing Buddy’s charm and gentle nature, quickly went viral. The outpouring of support and interest in adopting Buddy was a testament to the power of social media and the strong emotional connection people feel towards animals in need. The staff at BHAH were inundated with messages and applications from potential adopters, all eager to provide Buddy with a loving home.
Choosing the right home for Buddy was no easy task. The team at BHAH meticulously reviewed each application, ensuring that Buddy’s new family would be able to meet his specific needs and provide him with a comfortable and fulfilling life. After a thorough vetting process, they found the perfect match. Buddy’s new family not only had the resources to care for him but also shared a deep love for senior dogs, understanding the joy and companionship they bring.
Buddy’s transition to his new home was smooth and joyous. The presence of two other dogs in the household provided Buddy with immediate companionship, and the three quickly formed a close bond. The sight of Buddy playing and interacting with his new siblings was a heartwarming confirmation that he had found his forever home.
The commitment of BHAH to support Buddy’s medical needs for the rest of his life underscores their dedication to every animal they rescue. By providing Buddy with a wheelchair and an orthopedic bed, they ensured that he could live his remaining years in comfort and dignity. This level of care is a hallmark of BHAH’s approach to animal rescue, reflecting their mission to provide not just a temporary shelter but a true home for every dog in their care.
Buddy’s story is a shining example of the impact that compassionate and dedicated rescue organizations can have on the lives of animals. It also highlights the importance of considering the adoption of senior pets, who often have so much love and joy to offer despite their age. For Buddy, the final chapter of his life will be filled with love, companionship, and the comfort of knowing he is cherished.
As Buddy enjoys his days swimming, playing, and napping alongside his siblings, the team at BHAH continues their mission to rescue and care for dogs in need. Buddy’s journey from a surrendered senior to a beloved family member serves as an inspiration to all, a reminder that every dog deserves a chance to live out their days surrounded by love.