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Cooper came to my husband and me shortly after we lost our Mariah. I thought it would be a good thing to adopt soon since my husband was so sad. Little did we know then that our lives would change dramatically very soon.

We were told that Cooper was about 1-year-old. He was a Miniature Pinscher/Chihuahua mix and weighed 18 pounds. We did not know that he had medical issues caused by his short time at the shelter. The staff knew he was bitten by another dog but not the extent of his injuries. The day after we adopted him, he looked like he had the mumps. After a lot of testing and failed treatments, he finally had successful neck surgery. All medical bills were paid by the shelter.

I was also dealing with my husband who was ill, along with Cooper's treatment. My husband died six months after Cooper came to us. By then, Cooper had recovered from his surgeries, and he was my comfort and constant companion. Everyone who met him said he had a beautiful face and eyes.

His devotion to me was unwavering, even through my darkest moments. It's so true that animals know when you need a friend and step up. I lost Cooper too soon; he was only 9-years-old. He never lost his "puppy enthusiasm", and I will always hold him in my heart.

Story submitted by Lenore O'Connell.

This story was originally shared on The Animal Rescue Site. Share your very own rescue story here!