This story was originally shared on The Animal Rescue Site. Submit your own rescue story here. Your story just might be the next to be featured on our blog!

I first saw Josie on a rescue website run by Tender Loving Canines in Simi Valley, California. I live in the San Diego area, but I kept going back to her photo day after day. She had the sweetest face, and I couldn’t stop thinking about her.

Jeanette Shelton

When I contacted the rescue, I learned that a police officer had found Josie on the street. Her back legs didn’t work. They believed she had either been hit by a car—without any other injuries—or viciously kicked by her owner and dumped.

The day I called to finalize her adoption, they asked if I knew she was incontinent. I didn’t. They explained she had been refused by several adopters because of it. I asked what would happen if I didn’t take her. They told me she would be euthanized.

I said I’d be there in a few hours.

Jeanette Shelton

I drove up in record time and bought animal diapers for the ride home. Her adoption fee was originally $500, but no one could agree on her age—she was either five months or ten months old—so I happily paid $300.

Josie is now 11 years old. We’ve gone through a lot of diapers, a lot of challenges, and a lot of life together. She’s one of the smartest dogs I’ve ever known—and simply the best.

Story submitted by Jeanette Shelton

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