If you want to understand the real meaning of resilience, let me introduce you to Grandpa Larry! At 14 years old, this dog has an unstoppable spirit and is one of the biggest fighters I’ve ever encountered.
Instead of fading away in a shelter, just another dog in the crowd, Larry decided to stand up for himself. He wanted to live, even though he couldn’t walk initially. When people labeled him as a hospice patient, he proved them wrong by showing his true strength and determination.
Grandpa Larry Turns Weaknesses Into Strengths
Larry’s story took a turn for the better thanks to the amazing team at I Stand With My Pack, based in Culver City, California. They rescued Larry from the shelter just in time. At his advanced age, Larry had one simple wish: to enjoy his golden years as a happy pup. And the team made it happen!
Source: @peaches_and_mabel
Lucy, a seasoned foster caregiver known for her vibrant and entertaining Instagram account showcasing her dogs, welcomed Larry into her home without hesitation. Despite his mobility issues, she opened her heart to him, and so did her dog pack.
Initially, the rescue team thought Larry would be a hospice foster due to his condition. However, once Larry settled in at Lucy’s place, his true character began to shine through. “The rescue thought he could be a hospice foster. His back legs didn’t really work very well,” Lucy shared with The Dodo.
A Miraculous Transformation
Source: I Stand With My Pack
In just a few short weeks, Grandpa Larry underwent an incredible transformation. It was as if he was aging backward, rejuvenating alongside his new dog siblings and surprising everyone with his vitality.
How could an old, sick dog transform so quickly and appear so young? It seemed impossible, but Larry did it! And one of the best things about him? His new, funny little quirks!
Larry has a charming habit of “wooing” whenever he sees a fire truck pass by. He also has a toe-tapping ritual before his meals. In fact, Larry refuses to do anything before having his breakfast in the morning. “He wouldn’t do anything before he had breakfast. He wouldn’t go out and pee. He was like, ‘No, I have to have my breakfast now,’” Lucy recounted.
Aging Is Just a Number for Larry
Larry defied all odds in such a short period. No one could believe that a dog once labeled as a “potential hospice foster” could transform so dramatically, especially at his age. Every day, Larry embarked on a new journey, breaking barriers and embracing his new life with zest.
A Surprise Adoption
The most heartwarming part of Larry’s story came when Tara, a long-time foster from Arizona, reached out to Lucy expressing her desire to adopt Larry. Lucy was overjoyed at the news.
The two met in Palm Springs, California, for the adoption day, celebrating with a big party for Grandpa Larry and his new siblings – Magoo, Frank, and Gordy. Seeing this senior pup thriving and finally getting the life he deserves was an emotional moment for everyone involved.
A New Beginning
Tara, her big family, and Larry traveled all the way to Arizona, where Larry started a new chapter in his life. Today, Larry is happier than ever, living his best life surrounded by people who absolutely adore him. “He freaking loves everything. He loves to go everywhere. There’s only been a couple of dogs over the years that when you take them out into public, they actually do a scene just by existing. They have grandpa swag, and he’s definitely got it,” Tara said.
Larry’s story is a testament to the power of love and the potential that every senior dog has. All they need is a fighting chance in life. Grandpa Larry’s journey reminds us that even the oldest, most fragile dogs can experience a miraculous turnaround with a little love and care. His resilience and spirit inspire us to never give up, no matter how tough the circumstances.
