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Senior Dog Given a Year to Live Is Now Thriving Thanks to One Woman’s Love
A senior shelter dog named Ruthie is defying all odds—and it’s all thanks to the love and compassion of a young woman who refused to give up on her.
Ciera Mueller, 23, first met Ruthie on a cold January day while volunteering at the Humane Society of North Texas. She found the trembling senior dog standing alone in a hallway. Unsure whether Ruthie was cold, scared, or both, Ciera sat beside her and felt an instant bond.
When Ciera expressed interest in adopting Ruthie, the shelter delivered heartbreaking news: Ruthie had been diagnosed with mammary gland cancer and was given less than a year to live. But Ciera didn’t hesitate. She took Ruthie home the next day as a hospice foster, determined to make her final days full of comfort, safety, and love.
What followed was nothing short of a miracle.
Within just a week in her new home, Ruthie’s entire demeanor changed. Surrounded by Ciera and five college roommates—affectionately known as her “aunties”—Ruthie began to thrive. She wagged her little tail nub, zoomed through the house with playful energy, and finally experienced the joy of being part of a family.
“She changed so fast,” Ciera said. “I think she just needed someone to believe in her.”
But nearly a year later, a sudden setback occurred. Ruthie jumped off a bed and became paralyzed from the neck down. Ciera rushed her to a veterinary neurologist, fearing the worst. An MRI revealed a ruptured spinal disc—but also something incredible: no signs of cancer. Ruthie’s scans were completely clear.
Grateful and amazed, Ciera helped Ruthie through a long recovery. By Thanksgiving, Ruthie stood again. With support and physical therapy, she gradually regained her strength and mobility.
Today, more than 18 months after her adoption, Ruthie is cancer-free and full of life. Officially adopted by Ciera, she spends her days on walks, curled up on the couch, and even watching reality TV. Her transformation is a powerful reminder that love and hope can sometimes heal even the deepest wounds.
From hospice foster to beloved family member, Ruthie is proof that it’s never too late for a second chance.
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This content was created with AI assistance and edited by the iHeartDogs team.
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