When Olivia Boblet began her volunteer work at the SPCA of Southwest Michigan, she had no idea that she would instantly fall in love with a certain furry friend as soon as she laid eyes on him.
His name was Otis, and he possessed the most endearing, deep-set eyes that seemed to reflect a soulful nature. Otis was a genuine charmer who was in desperate need of affection and care.
Olivia’s heart sank when she discovered Otis’s backstory. His previous family had to surrender him after a devastating house fire forced them to relocate. Unable to take Otis to their new residence, they had no choice but to leave him behind at the shelter.
During his initial days at the shelter, Otis was visibly distressed. He frequently whimpered in his kennel, clearly missing his family and confused about his new, unfamiliar surroundings.
Source: GeoBeats Animals
Helping Otis Overcome His Sadness
In an effort to alleviate his sorrow, Olivia, along with the shelter’s staff and other volunteers, dedicated themselves to bringing joy into Otis’s life. They lavished him with attention and affection, which gradually helped him to perk up. Otis particularly enjoyed his walks with the shelter volunteers, which quickly became the highlight of his days.
The mere sight of Olivia approaching his cage would make Otis’s face light up, his eyes sparkling with happiness.
Olivia took great pleasure in watching Otis transform during their outdoor excursions. He loved to run wildly, or do “zoomies,” and he appeared most content when playing in the shelter’s play yards. He was always reluctant to return to his kennel, preferring the freedom and fun of the outdoors.
Source: GeoBeats Animals
“He just wanted to keep playing and enjoying what normal dogs do. Watching him get the zoomies, destress, and just let loose was incredibly fulfilling. It made me happy knowing I was making him happy by taking him outside,” Olivia shared with GeoBeats Animals.
Becoming increasingly attached to Otis, Olivia found herself constantly thinking about him, even when she was at home. The thought of him alone in his kennel brought her to tears.
Making Great Memories Together
Source: GeoBeats Animals
Despite the sadness, knowing Otis was in a supportive shelter environment offered her some comfort. The shelter staff and other dogs were like a second family to Otis, always there to make his days brighter.
Yet, Otis didn’t seem to attract much attention from potential adopters until one day, a family visited the shelter and seemed enchanted by him. Olivia felt a mix of happiness and sadness—happy that Otis might finally get his forever home, but sad at the thought of saying goodbye.
Just as she was coming to terms with his departure, the family unexpectedly decided they couldn’t take him. Heartbroken for Otis, Olivia went to comfort him and took him for a walk to lift his spirits.
Both Olivia’s and her boyfriend’s families knew about her special bond with Otis and often came to visit him. Every encounter with Olivia was a moment of sheer joy for Otis; he would melt into her arms, showering her with the most heartfelt hugs.
One of Olivia’s most cherished memories came about two months after they met. “It was right after a rainy day. The play yards were muddy, and Otis got the zoomies. He accidentally bumped into me, knocking me over. I fell on my back, totally embarrassed, but he was just so happy,” she fondly recalled.
Olivia had hoped to adopt Otis herself, but her living situation at the time didn’t allow pets.
Source: GeoBeats Animals
Otis Finds His Forever Home
In a turn of events, Otis met a wonderful family in May 2023. They were immediately taken by his charming personality and irresistible smile, and they decided to adopt him.
Before leaving the shelter for his new home, Otis got to say his goodbyes to the shelter staff and to Olivia, who had filled his days with joy and love.
Source: GeoBeats Animals
Although Olivia wished she could have been his forever mom, she was thrilled that Otis had found his happy ending. Now, Otis enjoys his cozy bed and nightly kisses from his new family, which includes two loving human sisters.
His new mom kept Olivia updated on his life, which brought immense happiness to Olivia. Seeing how much Otis loved his new family confirmed that he was indeed living his best life, surrounded by love and care.
